Textured walls can be a real statement in any room, but painting them isn’t always as easy as it seems. Even though there’s a bunch of different types of textured walls like popcorn or rough knockdown, each of them has a unique problem. To get that smooth, even finish you’re after, you need a game plan. Here’s a breakdown of painting textured walls, tips for the job, and how to make it look like it was done by pros.
Understanding Textured Walls
Before we even start painting, it’s important to understand what texture we are working with. Popcorn ceilings, knockdown finishes, and swirled patterns all require different approaches, which is why understanding them before you even start is step one.
For example, one of the most common problems with popcorn ceilings is that the way it absorbs paint can leave you with a patchy finish if you’re not careful. Meanwhile knockdown textures are easier to paint but you’ll still need to pay more attention than flat walls.
Each type of texture has its quirks, but understanding these will help you pick the right tools and techniques for the job.
Choosing the Right Tools for Painting Textured Walls
When it comes to painting textured walls, the right tools make all the difference. Regular paintbrushes and rollers usually aren’t enough if you’re trying to cover uneven surfaces with multiple layers. Instead, you should get tools that are specifically designed with textured surfaces in mind.
Rollers with thick nap (¾-inch to 1-inch) are a must. These rollers allow paint to reach into the dips and grooves of the textured surface. But if your walls have deep and more complex patterns, a paint sprayer might be the way to go. While a sprayer is a bit trickier to master, it can provide an even coat without leaving brush marks or roller lines. It’s perfect for surfaces like popcorn ceilings or heavily textured walls.
Paintbrushes are still needed too, especially for those hard to reach spots like corners or edges, this is where an angled brush truly shines.
Rolling Techniques for Textured Walls
Rolling textured walls requires a bit more finesse than rolling smooth surfaces. When you’re painting textured walls, make sure you load the roller generously with paint. A thick nap roller will help you get into those tiny cracks, but be careful because it can also have excess paint pooling in some areas. To avoid that, don’t press too hard when rolling. Light, consistent pressure works best for an even coating.
A key tip for rolling textured walls is to use a “W” or “M” pattern. This technique helps you avoid roller lines while letting the paint get into every nook and cranny. Make sure to go over the entire surface in one smooth motion without lifting the roller too much so the paint is consistent.
When painting textured walls, don’t rush the process. You might feel the urge to speed things up, but that can leave you with an uneven finish. Take your time, and make sure each section is properly covered before moving on to the next.
Brush Techniques for Detail Work
While rolling is usually the main technique, there are always areas that require a little more attention. Think corners, edges, and areas where the texture changes. For these tricky spots, a brush can come in handy.
Use a small, stiff-bristled brush to carefully paint the detailed areas. When painting along edges where the wall meets the ceiling or trim, it’s much easier and important to use an angled brush. This will give you cleaner, more defined lines without worrying about the paint bleeding onto surfaces you don’t want it to be.
After you’ve used the brush, lightly feather the edges with the same brush to make the transition smoother. This will make it so the paint on the wall and the edges are better blended into the texture, giving you a more polished and professional look.
Using a Paint Sprayer for Larger, Complex Textures
For more complicated or large-scale projects, a paint sprayer can be a game changer. While it’s not always recommended for beginners, using a sprayer on textured walls is an efficient way to get an even coat on rougher surfaces.
A paint sprayer creates a smooth, consistent finish, making it an excellent choice for wall painting for your home, especially for walls that would take much longer to cover with a roller or brush. The trick is to keep the sprayer at a consistent distance (around 12-18 inches from the wall) and move in a sweeping motion. Practice first on a piece of cardboard or an old cloth to avoid over-spraying and creating uneven patches. You’ll also need to protect everything around the walls, so don’t forget to use painters’ tape and drop clothes for the floors and furniture.
Layering Paint for Deeper Textures
Some textured walls, especially those with heavy patterns or deep grooves, may require more than one coat of paint. The first coat will often absorb into the surface, and you might not get full coverage so you’ll probably need to apply a second or even third coat.
It’s important to let each layer dry fully before adding the next one. Because textured surfaces tend to absorb more paint than smooth ones, you’ll want to avoid overloading your roller or sprayer with too much paint. Apply the paint gently to prevent excess buildup in the texture, which could damage the look of the wall.
Consider Specialized Paint for Textured Walls
Not all paints are the same. and when it comes to textured walls it’s really important that you choose the right one. Look for paint that’s designed for textured surfaces, such as high-build paints. These paints are thicker and can help fill in any imperfections or deeper grooves, making it easier to get that smooth, even finish you’re looking for.
Using a specialized paint also means you might not need to apply as many coats, which is a big time saver. Plus, it helps achieve a more durable finish, so you won’t have to worry about touch ups as often.
Final Thoughts on Painting Textured Walls
Painting textured walls is a bit of an art, but with the right techniques and tools, you can achieve a finish that looks professionally done. It’s all about being patient, taking your time, and using the best tools for the job. It doesn’t matter what technique you choose, each method has its own advantages depending on the type of texture you’re working with.