Texture paint texture: a full guide to Rockcote top finishes

Texture paint has become one of the most effective ways to transform a space. It adds depth, character, and a tactile quality that simple colour alone cannot achieve.

Whether you want a subtle change or a finish that becomes a standout design feature, the right texture can completely shift a home’s atmosphere.

Rockcote offers a curated selection of premium textures designed to perform beautifully on a wide range of substrates. Below, we walk through each option so you can easily recognise the differences between each texture and how they shape the final look.

This guide brings all Rockcote textures into one easy overview so you can explore their unique qualities and choose the finish that best suits your needs.

What is texture paint?

Texture paint is a high-build decorative finish that adds dimension, movement, and a handcrafted feel to walls and surfaces. Unlike standard paint, texture coatings can be floated, trowelled, or rolled to achieve a variety of effects. They come pre-blended or ready to mix with water, depending on the product.

Texture coatings help you create anything from a smooth, refined surface to a deep, rustic style. They allow walls to shift from plain to expressive, while providing durability and long-term performance.

How to choose the right option?

Choosing a texture is not only about the final look. The right option for your project also depends on the condition of the surface, the preferred application method, and the type of design you want to achieve. Here are a few simple things to keep in mind as you make a decision:

Surface condition

Textures are excellent at disguising uneven surfaces, old repairs, and bumps. Medium and coarse textures offer the strongest concealment.

Desired look

Think about the overall feel you want to achieve: a soft finish, a smooth, modern look, or a more textured pattern.

Substrate type

Some textures are developed to perform reliably on tricky surfaces like previously painted masonry, off-form concrete, plasterboard, or AAC panels and blocks. 

Application style

Whether you prefer a floated finish or a trowelled texture can guide the product choice.

Once these basics are considered, you can explore the Rockcote texture range with confidence.

Comparing Rockcote’s texture paint range

Rockcote Flexi Tex Medium

Rockcote Flexi Tex Medium offers a classic sand finish that feels natural, grounded, and timeless. It is flexible, cost-effective and suitable for a wide variety of surfaces, which makes it a dependable choice for both new builds and renovations.

Key qualities

  • Delivers a natural medium sand texture
  • Simple to apply and finish
  • Must be overcoated with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex
  • Suitable for almost every commercially available substrate
  • Ideal for both residential and commercial projects

Choose Flexi Tex Medium if you want a clean, consistent texture that brings subtle interest without being too bold.

Rockcotes Texture Paint Range

Rockcote Render Paint Flat

Rockcote Render Paint Flat creates a smooth, understated sandy finish with beautiful matt depth. The finely graded quartz sand produces a calm, modern look while still offering a gentle texture that enhances the surface.

Key qualities

  • Fine sandy texture for a refined appearance
  • Pure acrylic formulation 
  • Can be tinted for enhanced colour richness
  • Includes mould and fungus inhibitors
  • Suitable for interior and exterior use
  • Creates a soft, contemporary finish

Render Paint Flat is a great choice when you want a texture that feels elegant and minimal.

Rockcote Trowel On

Rockcote 2mm Trowel On introduces a distinctive, handcrafted look through its aggregate based texture. It is known for its expressive finishes, whether applied in a traditional travertine pattern or a softer swirl style.

Key qualities

  • Unique aggregate texture that adds strong visual interest
  • Can be finished in classic travertine lines or swirl patterns
  • Flexible acrylic formulation
  • Must be overcoated with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex
  • Ideal for feature walls or standout architectural elements
  • Choose Trowel On when you want a texture that feels artistic and full of character.
Rockcote's Trowel On
Tuscany Trowel On Coarse

Rockcote Tuscany Trowel On Coarse

Rockcote Tuscany Trowel On Coarse gives walls a bold, expressive surface with noticeable depth. Although the finish is strong, the product itself remains flexible and crack-resistant.

Key qualities

  • Coarse-textured finish with strong visual presence
  • Formulated for high crack resistance
  • Flexible acrylic texture render
  • Can be tinted for enhanced colour richness
  • Should be overcoated with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex

This is an excellent choice for modern homes or statement facades that need a textured finish with personality.

Rockcote Tuscany Trowel On Medium

Rockcote Tuscany Trowel On Medium delivers the same reliability as the coarse option, but with a gentler texture that blends easily into any architectural style.

Key qualities

  • Medium texture with a softer, balanced feel
  • High crack resistance and long-lasting flexibility
  • Suitable for a wide range of design styles
  • Can be tinted to enhance color vibrancy
  • Must be overcoated with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex

Tuscany Medium works beautifully when you want texture that enhances the space rather than becoming a strong focal point.

Rockcote Acrylic Texture Coarse

Rockcote Acrylic Texture Coarse provides a coarse finish that is quick to apply and easy to float consistently. It is a reliable base coat for both standard and difficult substrates.

Key qualities

  • Coarse texture that delivers strong architectural depth
  • No sponging required, which improves speed and efficiency
  • Performs on tricky surfaces, including previously painted masonry
  • Suitable for off-form concrete, AAC, fibre cement sheeting, and plasterboard
  • Can be tinted to support the following coats
  • Must be overcoated with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex

Acrylic Texture Coarse is ideal when you want a bold, heavy texture that applies efficiently across large areas.

Rockcote Acrylic Texture Medium

Rockcote Acrylic Texture Medium offers a more refined version of the coarse texture, while still providing consistent movement and depth.

Key qualities

  • Medium texture that feels clean and balanced
  • Easy floating application and no sponging required
  • Works on both standard and complex substrates
  • Can be tinted to assist with coverage
  • Suitable for both renovations and new builds
  • Must be overcoated with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex

This texture is a reliable option for projects requiring a medium finish that appears consistent and refined.

Rockcote Fast Float Finish Medium

Rockcote Fast Float Finish Medium is a mineral-based texture designed for traditional hawk and trowel application. It creates a classic floated finish with minimal shrinkage once cured.

Key qualities

  • Mineral-based medium texture
  • Minimal shrinkage during drying
  • Applied by hand using traditional techniques
  • May be finished with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex
  • Requires Rockcote Acrybond or Fast Bond, depending on the system

Fast Float Medium is perfect for projects wanting the look and feel of a traditional floated finish with modern performance benefits.

5 Application tips for texture paint

To help your chosen texture perform at its best, keep these simple tips in mind:

  • Start with a sound, properly prepared surface
  • Follow the recommended application method for each product
  • Complete the system with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex for durability
  • Maintain consistent technique for even texture
  • Allow appropriate curing time before overcoating

A complete system and correct application ensure the finish looks beautiful and lasts as intended.

FAQs about Rockcote texture paint

What is the difference between fine, medium, and coarse textures?
Fine textures are subtle and smooth, medium textures offer balanced movement, and coarse textures create a stronger, more dramatic effect.

Can texture paint hide imperfections?
Yes, provided the surface is properly prepared, texture coatings may help disguise old repairs, uneven patches, and minor surface defects.

Are Rockcote textures suitable for interiors and exteriors?
Many Rockcote textures perform well in both environments when applied as part of the correct system.

Do I need a top coat?
We suggest finishing most textures with Rockcote Armour or Armour Flex for a long-lasting and protective result.

Can these products be tinted?
Several textures can be tinted to create richer colour and assist with coverage.

Explore Rockcote Texture Finishes

Ready to find the right texture for your next project? Explore the Rockcote Texture Finishes to see the full range and get inspired by real projects.