Textured interior walls (think: “orange peel,” popcorn, or swirled patterns) have a practical function, since the texture hides the signs of drywall installation—that is, the taped seams where the sheets of drywall meet—and other imperfections.
Wall textures have been commonly used to finish interior walls surfaces and to hide imperfections in the drywall.
There's a reason most walls in residential projects are textured. They hide imperfections in the drywall job, which likely are a result of imperfections in the framing, which are likely imperfections in the lumber used to build the walls.
Most likely they settled unevenly or the foundation shifted over the years - highly unlikely that they were built crooked. But, possible that not all the angles were perfectly straight to begin with, as that is still the case in many building built today.
While certain types of wall texture are considered outdated, it would be unfair to call all textured walls out of step with modern trends. Like many things with interior design, textured walls are what you make of them, and they can certainly take on a more modern spin when paired with of-the-moment decor.
I can't speak for all areas of the country, however, in CA, smooth texture walls will almost always bring the higher value.
Although it can depend on where you live and the construction quality of your home, it's likely that older houses can develop foundation problems at some point. For example, homes built before 1940 don't have as stable foundations as the modern concrete slabs we use today.
Cavity walls started being used in the UK in the early 20th century, around the 1920s and 1930s. They replaced solid walls as a way to improve protection against dampness. By the 1950s, cavity walls became the standard for most new homes.
Looks aside, building homes with these high, vaulted ceilings helped move hot air upward, keeping rooms and gathering areas cooler and less stuffy. Not the most mysterious old home feature, but definitely one that looks good and works.
Contractors and DIYers didn't have to spend hours fixing every crack, hole, or bump. Instead, they could just add the popcorn texture, paint, and call it a day. Another reason popcorn ceilings were popular (and still are in multi-family housing) is because they dampen sound.
A room might appear larger and the diverse wall textures can be less obvious by painting the walls a light hue. Neutral hues like white and beige as well as earth tones like soft greens, browns, yellows, and pinks are examples of light paint.
Level 5 Wall Texture
This wall texture feels more refined and luxurious, and it is also the most expensive option because creating a smooth wall texture requires additional labor and skill. Extra skim coats are applied, and more attention must be placed on floating drywall to ensure every wall is even.
While it is certainly possible to add modern elements to an existing space that has the standard textured drywall finish, in projects requiring construction, we do prefer to recommend starting with a smooth canvas (a.k.a. wall surface). It is part of the base layer to building a more modern aesthetic overall.
If you have textured wall surfaces or wallpaper, you might hesitate about painting over them. However, while it can take a little more time and requires a little more effort compared to smooth walls, painting textured walls really isn't as difficult as you might imagine.
Although cavity walls themselves became a thing in the late 1800's, and prominent from the 1920's onwards, cavity wall insulation only properly came into being in 1970 and became mandatory in the 1990's. If you're not sure whether your house has it or not - have a look at the brick pattern on the exterior wall.
If you have an old house, it's likely your walls are either plaster or some kind of original wood paneling. This may be hidden under layers of unfortunate redecorating attempts, but it's probably there. If you have plaster, you're at the bottom layer and shouldn't rip into it further.
Properties without a DPC, or where the DPC is too low (typically less than 125mm from the ground) and a French drain has not been installed. Some properties with raked mortar joints. Properties with a cavity wall under 50mm or over 150mm. Properties that have significant rubble or mortar ingress in the cavity.
It is a fact that all foundations will start to settle over time. You may see small cracks form in your walls, and this is perfectly normal. Don't panic before you know whether there is anything to worry about. The first thing you need to do is inspect your home and look for any warning signs your home may have.
Drywall Cracks or Floor Cracks
Drywall cracks, including ceiling cracks, drywall cracks above doors and windows, and floor cracks are among the most common signs of foundation damage. These cracks appear on the exterior and interior of your home and may signal foundation movement.
These homes were typically built using high-quality, natural materials such as brick, stone and solid wood, which provided a sturdy foundation for the structure. They often had thick walls that helped to insulate the home and provided additional strength and stability.
Drywall texturing is done to create an attractive finish on the walls and ceilings. Texturing adds depth, character and style to the surface, which can enhance the overall appearance of a room. Additionally, texturing helps to hide any imperfections or flaws in the drywall, such as uneven joints, dents or scratches.
The cost to skim coat walls and remove the texture is between $300 and $1,200 or $1 to $3 per square foot.