Using the wrong type of paint roller can result in project failure.
Many homeowners have older, acoustical or popcorn-type ceiling textures coupled with basic, flat white walls. A decorative update to this home decor is the use of knockdown texture across both the ceiling and walls. Knockdown texture mimics a Spanish stucco look, exhibiting valleys and crests along the surfaces. However, specific paint rollers must be used to obtain the best final texture.
Application
A basic knockdown decor uses all-purpose joint compound, or mud, as the applied texture. Mud compound is a powdery substance that consists of many ingredients including clay, gypsum and limestone. The compound is usually mixed with water to achieve a consistency imitating oatmeal. Workers apply this thick mixture across walls and ceilings with either a spray gun or a specialized paint roller.
Roller Type
A plastic loop roller is the typical roller used for knockdown texture applied with mud. These rollers have a strong plastic core that fits onto a basic paint roller. The outside surface is a conglomeration of large, plastic loops. The plastic is strong enough to hold the thick mud mixture while applying it to the walls or ceiling. As a result, the plastic loops create valleys and crests of mud compound that dry into a unique, textured surface.
Roller Size
The roller's nap should be a medium length. The nap is the length of each loop extending from the surface of the plastic core. Knockdown textures require a semi-rough surface, with the plastic loops a length of 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch. A longer nap would generate a textured surface with exaggerated crests and valleys, making it too difficult to paint. However, choosing a shorter nap would make mud application difficult since the mixture would not adhere to the tiny loop size.
Alternative to Mud
An alternative way to achieve a knockdown texture negates the need for messy mud application. Textured paints are available on the market that mimic the mud look. Plastic looped rollers apply the textured paints as well, but foam rollers are also an option. Foam rollers typically have a pattern inscribed along their lengths. The roller transfers the pattern to the wall or ceiling surface as the textured paint is applied with the foam. Consumers have many pattern options when using foam rollers, creating an individual style for each application.
Painting Knockdown Texture
Painting knockdown texture takes time and patience since paint application must fill all the generated valleys and crests. Plastic looped rollers are a good choice for knockdown paint application. The long loops can infiltrate crevices within the texture and provide adequate coverage.
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