Have you ever noticed your walls or ceilings have a slightly bumpy look, similar to the skin of an orange? That’s exactly what’s known as orange peel texture. It’s a widely popular drywall finish, known for adding subtle visual interest and hiding minor imperfections. If you’re curious to know more about this trendy finish, you’ve come to the right place!
In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll cover everything about orange peel texture, from what it is, how it’s applied, and why it might be a perfect choice for your home.
What Exactly Is Orange Peel Texture?
Orange peel texture gets its name from the surface resembling the bumpy, slightly dimpled skin of an orange. This texture is commonly used on drywall surfaces, giving walls and ceilings a more visually appealing and uniform appearance.
Compared to flat finishes, orange peel texture helps mask minor imperfections, making it a popular choice for home renovations, especially when older walls need an update without extensive repairs.
Different Drywall Texture Types You Should Know
When it comes to textured wall finishes, orange peel is just one of many options. Other popular drywall texture types include:
- Knockdown Texture: Similar to orange peel but with larger, flattened bumps.
- Popcorn Texture: Famous for its rough, cottage cheese-like appearance, widely used in older homes.
- Skip Trowel Texture: A hand-applied, elegant finish with random patterns.
While each has its unique look and purpose, orange peel texture remains favored for its versatility and ease of application.
To explore more details about the differences between these two textures, check out this comprehensive guide on Orange Peel vs. Knockdown Texture.
Orange Peel vs. Knockdown Texture: What’s the Difference?
You might wonder how orange peel compares to knockdown texture since they look somewhat alike. Here’s the quick breakdown:
- Orange Peel Texture: Small, rounded, consistent bumps—subtle and refined.
- Knockdown Texture: Larger bumps flattened after spraying, giving a more pronounced, rustic look.
Orange peel is ideal if you’re seeking something subtle yet decorative, while knockdown texture offers a slightly bolder statement.
DIY Guide: Applying Orange Peel Texture Yourself
Good news for DIY enthusiasts—applying orange peel texture isn’t as complicated as you might think! The most common and easiest method is using orange peel texture spray, available at most hardware stores.
Here’s a simplified guide to getting it right:
- Step 1: Prepare your wall surface—clean it thoroughly and repair any significant damages.
- Step 2: Prime the wall to ensure the texture adheres evenly.
- Step 3: Shake your orange peel texture spray can well, then practice spraying on scrap cardboard.
- Step 4: Spray evenly onto your wall from about 18 inches away, moving consistently to maintain uniform coverage.
- Step 5: Allow it to dry completely—usually about 24 hours.
- Step 6: Finish with primer and your favorite paint.
Voilà! You’ve successfully created your DIY wall texture.
DIY Wall Texture: Choosing Between Spray and Hopper Gun
If you’re tackling a larger area or multiple rooms, an orange peel spray can might not suffice. Instead, you can use a hopper gun—a specialized sprayer attachment that connects to an air compressor. This method gives you more control, especially for larger projects or whole-room renovations.
A hopper gun lets you adjust texture thickness and density, ideal for matching existing orange peel finishes. Whichever tool you choose, patience and practice are your best allies for perfect results.
Repairing Orange Peel Texture: Quick DIY Fixes
Life happens—sometimes textured walls get scratched or dented. Thankfully, repairing damaged orange peel texture is straightforward:
- Small Repairs: For tiny holes, you can use lightweight joint compound. Apply it sparingly, allow it to dry, sand lightly, and spray orange peel texture spray to match the surrounding area.
- Larger Repairs: For bigger sections, blend new texture carefully with the old, feathering out edges to seamlessly match the existing surface.
With a bit of practice, your repairs can look professional without breaking the bank.
Is Orange Peel Texture Paintable?
Absolutely! In fact, painting orange peel textured walls can further enhance their aesthetic appeal. Because the surface isn’t perfectly smooth, matte and eggshell finishes typically work best. They highlight the subtle texture while hiding minor blemishes even better.
A good primer coat ensures even color coverage and adherence, giving your interior a polished look you’ll love.
Pros and Cons of Orange Peel Texture Walls
Before deciding on orange peel texture for your home, consider the following pros and cons:
Pros:
- Easy to apply and cost-effective.
- Conceals minor wall imperfections.
- Adds visual depth without being overwhelming.
- Ideal for both DIY and professional applications.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Slightly harder to clean than smooth walls.
- Repairs require matching texture precisely.
- May not suit ultra-modern, minimalist decor.
Considering your home’s style and your lifestyle needs helps determine if this finish is your best choice.
Can Orange Peel Texture Affect Home Value?
Real estate experts often debate whether textured walls increase or decrease home value. The truth lies somewhere in between:
Home buyers often appreciate textured finishes like orange peel, as it hides imperfections, meaning less repair and maintenance. However, overly textured walls can sometimes limit buyers seeking sleek, contemporary interiors.
The trick is balance—moderately applied orange peel texture is often a safe choice for maintaining or boosting your home’s resale value.
Removing Orange Peel Texture: Is it Worth It?
Over time, your tastes might change, and smooth walls may better fit your vision. While removing textured walls requires more effort, it’s achievable:
- Sanding: Effective but messy and labor-intensive.
- Skim Coating: Applying drywall mud over existing texture, then sanding for a smooth finish.
- Drywall Replacement: Best when texture removal isn’t feasible due to severe damage.
Weighing the effort and cost against the desired look helps determine if removing texture is worthwhile.
Final Thoughts: Is Orange Peel Texture Right for Your Home?
Orange peel texture strikes a sweet spot between practicality and aesthetics. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a visually appealing finish that’s easy to apply and forgiving of wall imperfections. With a bit of patience and some DIY spirit, you can achieve professional results that elevate your home’s appearance.
Whether you’re renovating an older home or just refreshing your interiors, giving orange peel texture a chance might be exactly the upgrade your space needs!
