Orange Peel Ceilings

 "Orange peel" is a common type of drywall texture used on walls and ceilings. It's characterized by a subtle, slightly bumpy surface that resembles the skin of an orange, hence its name.

Here's what you should know about orange peel ceilings:

Characteristics:

• Appearance: It has a lightly textured surface with small, rounded bumps. It's less pronounced than "popcorn" texture (also known as acoustic or stipple) and generally considered more modern and less obtrusive.
• Application: It's typically applied by spraying a diluted joint compound onto the ceiling surface using a hopper gun and an air compressor. The size and density of the bumps can be adjusted by controlling the air pressure, the consistency of the compound, and the spray nozzle.
• Purpose: Orange peel texture is often used to:
  • Hide imperfections: It can help to conceal minor flaws in the drywall finishing, such as uneven seams or slight dents.
  • Provide visual interest: It adds a subtle tactile and visual element compared to a perfectly smooth ceiling.
  • Offer better paint adhesion: The slightly rough surface can give paint something to grip onto.
• Cleanliness: Compared to popcorn ceilings, orange peel is easier to clean as it doesn't have deep crevices that trap dust. However, the texture can still accumulate dust over time.

Things to Consider:

• Asbestos: If your home was built before the early 1980s, there's a possibility that the joint compound used in the orange peel texture (or popcorn texture, which was more commonly associated with asbestos) could contain asbestos. It is crucial to have the texture tested by a professional before attempting any removal or significant disturbance. Disturbing asbestos-containing materials can release harmful fibers into the air.
• Removal: Removing an orange peel ceiling can be a messy and labor-intensive process. The common methods include:
  • Skim coating: Applying a thin layer of joint compound over the existing texture to create a smooth surface. This is a common way to cover up any textured ceiling.
  • Scraping (less common for orange peel): While popcorn ceilings can often be scraped off after wetting, orange peel is more adhered and harder to remove this way. It can damage the underlying drywall.
  • Covering with new drywall: Installing a new layer of drywall over the existing textured ceiling.
• Repair: Small damages to orange peel ceilings can be repaired. You can often purchase aerosol cans of orange peel texture to blend in small patches. For larger areas, you might need to use joint compound and techniques like rolling or specialized spray tools to match the existing texture.

In summary, orange peel is a popular and generally well-regarded ceiling texture known for its subtle appearance and ability to hide minor imperfections. However, if your ceiling is old, it's essential to test for asbestos before undertaking any work. Removal can be challenging, but repairs are often manageable, especially for small areas.