The application of textured ceilings, often referred to by a specific colloquial term, experienced a decline in popularity due to a confluence of factors, primarily health concerns and evolving aesthetic preferences. This ceiling finish, once a common sight in residential construction, involved spraying a mixture onto the ceiling to create a bumpy, textured surface.
The decline in its use is linked to the presence of asbestos in materials used prior to its ban in the late 1970s. Asbestos, a known carcinogen, posed a health risk when these ceilings were disturbed during renovation or demolition. Beyond health concerns, shifts in interior design trends toward smoother, more modern surfaces contributed to its decreasing appeal. Homeowners and builders began favoring cleaner lines and more contemporary aesthetics. The relative difficulty and cost associated with removing these textured surfaces further solidified their fall from favor.