If you’re considering a home renovation, you may have come across the term “drywall levels of finish.” But what exactly does this mean? Understanding the different levels of drywall finish can help you make the best decisions for your home.
In 1990, to address the common problem of describing the appearance of gypsum board walls and ceilings before final decoration and paint, the Gypsum Association, along with five major trade associations, created industry-wide Recommended Levels of Gypsum Board Finish, GA-214-10. These trade associations include the Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry (AWCI), Ceiling & Interior Systems Construction Association (CISCA), Drywall Finishing Council (DWFC), Gypsum Association (GA), and Painting and Decorating Contractors of America (PDCA).
The Levels of Finish Are:
Level 0
No taping, finishing, or accessories required. This level of finish may be useful in temporary construction or whenever the final decoration has not been determined.
Level 1
Joint tape exposed, bare fasteners. Tool marks and ridges are acceptable. In some geographic areas, this level is referred to as “fire-taping.” Frequently specified in plenum areas above ceilings, in attics, in areas where the assembly would generally be concealed or in building service corridors, and other areas not normally open to public view.
Level 2
Joint tape embedded, one coat on fasteners. Tool marks and ridges are acceptable. Joint compound applied over the body of the tape at the time of tape embedment shall be considered a separate coat of joint compound and shall satisfy the conditions of this level. Specified where gypsum board is used as a substrate for tile; may be specified in garages, warehouse storage, or other similar areas where surface appearance is not of primary concern.
Level 3
One coat atop embedded joint tape, two coats on fasteners. Free of tool marks and ridges. Typically specified in appearance areas which are to receive heavy- or medium-textured (spray or hand applied) finishes before final painting, or where heavy-grade wall coverings are to be applied as the final decoration. This level of finish is not recommended where smooth painted surfaces or light to medium wall coverings are specified.
Level 4
Two coats atop embedded joint tape, three coats on fasteners. All joint compound shall be smooth and free of tool marks and ridges. This level should be specified where flat paints, light textures, or wall coverings are to be applied. Paints with sheen levels other than flat and enamel paints are not recommended over this level of finish. Unbacked vinyl wall coverings are not recommended over this level of finish.
Level 5
Two coats atop embedded joint tape, three coats on fasteners, “skim coat” of joint compound on the entire surface. The surface shall be smooth and free of tool marks and ridges. This level of finish is highly recommended where non-flat paint is specified or where severe lighting conditions occur. It provides a uniform surface and minimizes the possibility of joint photographing and fasteners showing through the final decoration.
The homeowner noticed lumps in the primer coat but only after the paint was applied, consistent with a Level 4 finish. It is unclear whether a Level 5 finish was specified.
Where Drywall Finishing Levels Apply
In an ideal scenario, all drywall would be mudded and sanded to a mirror-smooth surface. However, this can be costly. For DIYers, it adds more time to the project. The choice of drywall finish depends on the space and its use:
Garages and workshops: A level 1 or 2 finish is adequate in these areas where the wall appearance is not a priority.
Wainscot-hidden wall surfaces: A level-1 finish is suitable for the lower part of the walls, as it will be covered by wainscoting.
Cabinet-hidden walls: In kitchens with cabinets and appliances, a premium finish may not be necessary for much of the wall space.
Ceilings: Ceilings often need a level 4 or 5 finish, as they are more visible and subject to lighting.
When is a Level-5 Drywall Finish Needed?
A level-5 finish is a skim coat of joint compound applied to a finish that you would normally leave at level 4. You need a level 5 finish when using glossy, enamel, or non-textured flat paint, or when lighting conditions could highlight imperfections. Discuss this with your contractor or drywall installer, as it’s not typically part of the finishing process.
Contractors may not use numeric terms for drywall finishes. Instead, discuss the desired look or effect with your contractor, and they will translate your requests to the drywall technician.
More Interesting Facts Pertaining to the Levels of Drywall Finishes
Skim Coats: A skim coat is a layer of joint compound that conceals imperfections and creates a smooth surface for the final decoration. There is no specific thickness for a skim coat. It differs from plaster veneer used on blueboards and greenboards.
Application Methods: Skim coats can be applied using rollers, taping knives, or professional spray equipment.
Cost Estimation: Construction specifications and cost estimation data publications reference the Gypsum Association levels of drywall finish, providing clarity on the finishing process.
tag: # Drywall Levels of Finish
