It’s best to apply a textured finish thickly; remember you will only be applying one coat and the thicker the coat the more protection it will provide for the wall or ceiling surface. Also, if you intend using a patterning tool, working on a deep, even coat of texture will give the best results. Apply the finish in bands across the room until the entire wall or ceiling is covered.

Exterior textures are normally applied with a natural bristle brush, though on smooth surfaces where you want a coarser texture you can use a foam roller. Whenever possible, you should work in the shade if you are painting near drainpipes, you should tape newspaper round the pipes to protect the area you wish to avoid painting.

Tips For Applying Textured Finishes

Similarly, use masking tape to protect window frames (outdoors and inside) and also window reveals, light fittings, ventilator grilles and so on. If it does get on any of the areas, wipe it off with a damp rag immediately

Using patterning tools

The drying time for textured finishes varies from 1210 24 hours, though the working time for patterning can be much lower, depending on atmospheric conditions. You will normally have at least 4 hours to complete your patterning, but it would make sense to complete one wall or ceiling at a time as far as possible. If in doubt, study the manufacturer’s instructions-for the particular product you are using.

A random pattern will usually be quicker to achieve than a regular one where you will have to take care in matching up the pattern. In the latter case, it may be better to spread the texture on in strips and pattern each strip as you go rather than covering the whole wall or ceiling and then patterning it.

Finishing off

After patterning, it is normal practice to lace the pattern (to dull any sharp ridges) just as the material begins to dry. Even after it has dried you may still need to remove sharp points; use the blade of a filling knife to knock them back, or, if you want to go to the trouble, wrap fine glass paper round a sanding block and sand them down. If you don’t remove sharp ridges and points the surface may cut someone who leans against it or brittle parts may break off.

Textured finishes can usually be covered with either an emulsion or oil-based paint but checks the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Cleaning and maintenance

Most texture finishes are designed to last, which is just as well as it’s a messy, time- consuming and difficult job to remove them. Maintenance will normally consist of redecorating them with a coat of paint when they show signs of wear or hard-to-remove dirt or stains Surfaces should be kept clean: to do so, apply warm soapy water with a paint brush to loosen dirt and dust.