Orange Peel vs. Knockdown Wall Textures: A Complete Guide

Texture plays a key role in your walls’ appearance and durability. Two of the most popular drywall textures, orange peel and knockdown, add character and hide imperfections, but their looks, application methods, and costs vary. Whether you’re remodeling or finishing new drywall, understanding the differences between orange peel and knockdown will help you choose the best finish for your home.

What are the Differences Between Orange Peel and Knockdown Wall Textures?

Orange peel and knockdown textures are both spray-on wall finishes, but they differ in appearance and application. Orange peel is smoother and looks like—spoiler alert—the skin of an orange, while knockdown has a more rugged, flattened texture. Knockdown also takes more time and labor to apply, which often makes it more expensive.

Appearance Differences

When it comes to visual texture, orange peel offers a smoother, more uniform finish. It adds a subtle dimension without taking center stage. In contrast, knockdown texture is more dramatic, featuring flattened splatters that create a varied, spread-out look. It has more visual interest and a rougher feel, making it a bolder design choice.

In terms of style, orange peel works well in modern and transitional homes that lean toward clean lines and understated finishes. Knockdown, on the other hand, complements bolder styles such as rustic or Mediterranean. 

Cost Differences

Both finishes are relatively budget-friendly, but knockdown costs a bit more because there’s an extra step in the application process. Orange peel texture installation ranges from $1.25 to $1.95 per square foot, while knockdown can creep up over $2 per square foot. The added labor for knockdown, which includes spraying the mud and then flattening it with a drywall knife, accounts for the higher price tag. If you’re working on a large area or trying to match existing textured walls, it may be worth hiring an interior painter near you for a seamless finish.

Application and Difficulty Differences 

Orange peel texture is applied using a spray gun and left to dry. You can fairly easily apply orange peel texture as a DIY, especially if you want to cover large areas quickly. Knockdown starts the same way—with drywall mud sprayed onto the surface—but then requires you to wait a few minutes before dragging a drywall knife across to “knock down” the peaks. The timing and technique can feel tricky, making it more difficult to apply knockdown texture as a DIY project.

Durability and Maintenance Differences

Orange peel is considered easier to apply to existing walls in need of repair, because you can feather the edges and spray over repaired spots to blend them easily. Knockdown repairs are trickier because the pattern is more irregular, making it harder to match the surrounding areas. 

When it comes to cleaning, both textures resist minor scuffs and scratches well. However, knockdown’s deeper grooves can trap more dust, so it may require more frequent wiping or vacuuming.

When to Hire a Pro

You can DIY either texture with the right tools, but knockdown often benefits from a professional touch due to its trickier application. Consider hiring a local drywall pro if:

• You’re texturing multiple rooms or high walls

• You want to match the existing knockdown texture

• You’re concerned about consistency or finish quality