This refers to a tool, often pneumatic or electric, designed to apply textured finishes to walls and ceilings and commonly available at a major home improvement retailer. These devices atomize a thick mixture, typically joint compound, and project it onto a surface, creating patterns that range from subtle orange peel to heavy popcorn textures. The objective is typically decorative, intended to add visual interest or to hide imperfections in the underlying drywall.
Utilizing this application method offers several advantages over manual techniques. It allows for quicker and more consistent application of textures across large areas, saving time and labor. The use of a machine ensures a more uniform finish, minimizing variations that can occur with hand application. Historically, texturing was primarily a manual process; the introduction of mechanized sprayers significantly improved efficiency and allowed for broader adoption of textured finishes in residential and commercial buildings.