The texturing of ceilings with a specific aggregate material, often resembling kernels of popped corn, was a common practice in residential construction for several decades. This finish involved spraying a mixture containing polystyrene or vermiculite onto the ceiling surface, creating a bumpy, uneven texture. The primary characteristic of this type of ceiling is its distinctive, raised pattern.
This particular ceiling finish offered several advantages, including sound dampening and masking imperfections in the underlying drywall. The textured surface could effectively absorb echoes and reduce noise transmission between floors. Furthermore, it simplified the finishing process during construction, as minor flaws in the drywall installation were less visible beneath the textured coating. Historically, its widespread adoption stemmed from these practical benefits and its relatively low cost of application.