Popcorn Ceilings vs Textured Ceilings: How Are They Different?

If you’re ready to renovate your home and breathe fresh life into it, have you considered taking a look at your ceilings? Though not as immediately noticeable as your other walls or floors, these surfaces play a large role in the overall feel and atmosphere of your home’s interior. For a long time, both popcorn and textured ceilings have been popular options for homeowners; however, these types of ceilings normally look quite identical to each other, so what exactly makes them different?

A Closer Look at Popcorn Ceilings

Popcorn ceilings are sometimes called “cottage cheese ceilings” due to their unique texture that has a signature bumpy and pitted look. This has to do with the process for applying it; a wet joint compound is applied to the drywall surface using a hopper gun or trowel technique. As it dries it will harden into small bumps that create a unique patterned effect.

Popcorn textures were commonly used in residential buildings built before 1980 since they’re ideal for hiding imperfections in the drywall. They’re also relatively cost-effective and simple to apply, making them great for homes as well as larger buildings like schools and offices. However, it’s their versatility that makes them stand so far out; they can make rooms appear larger or smaller and they excel at creating visually striking patterns and designs.

However, popcorn ceilings, especially older ones, are often made using materials that contain asbestos fibers, which can be incredibly harmful when accidentally ingested. The pitted and bumpy surface can also trap dust particles more easily, which can trigger the allergies of homeowners.  

A Closer Look at Textured Ceilings

Textured ceilings are excellent alternatives to popcorn ceilings – and not only do they look nicer most of the time, but they’re also often safer for your health since there isn’t any asbestos involved! Textured ceilings also come in numerous styles, meaning that no matter what your preferences are or what sort of square footage you’re working with, you can find a scheme that fits.

Textured ceilings are normally easier to install compared to popcorn ones; instead of having to work in sections, you can use a roller to cover more area quickly and efficiently. You can also easily paint over these surfaces in the future when it’s time to change things up.

Which Type of Ceiling Should I Choose?

Surveys show that over 70% of new homes built since the year 2019 included some kind of textured surface on their walls or ceilings, making it clear that homeowners these days tend to prefer adding texture instead of opting for a flat finish like a popcorn ceiling – not to mention, the lack of asbestos in textured ceilings is another huge draw!

Ultimately, when making your decision, as long as you’ve weighed the pros and cons of each and informed yourself about any potential health risks associated with either choice, you can confidently commit to a new home design scheme that makes you feel ecstatic!

About Platinum Painting

The Platinum Painting team has proudly served DFW homeowners for over 15 years, offering assistance with interior and exterior projects for both residential and commercial clients. We also offer many painting-adjacent services, including popcorn ceiling removal. To learn more or to schedule a FREE in-home estimate with our team, please feel free to visit us online or call us today for further information.  

Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 697-2726.

Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (817) 993-4095.