Drywall Finishing
Leveling the Playing Field
Whether it's a level 1 or a level 5 finish, I'm here to provide you with the best finish quality and results. Not sure what finish to choose? That's alright, just a few simple questions will help me determine what the best level of finish is right for you.
Depending on location, intended use, and desired quality of space, there are 5 levels of drywall finish quality. Drywall quality is based on the steps taken to achieve the right level and the number of coats of mud applied. Below is a brief description of each of the levels of finish available. The importance of the finish is what determines what you're aiming to do with your walls next. Are you wanting texture and paint? Or are you just needing something basic for a garage or storage space? Or do you want something more high end? These are the things that will determine the right finish for you.
Additionally, the type and amount of texture you want will also have a direct impact on what drywall finish level you choose. I'll provide you with a professional opinion that will ensure the end result you seek.
Level 0
No Taping, Finishing, or Accessories
Level “0” represents drywall that has simply been hung and screwed into place. There wouldn’t be much reason to specifically ask for a “0” level finish in a residential setting, but it could be requested in a commercial or other temporary situation.
Level 1
Recommended for Concealed Spaces like Attics, Closets, Places that Aren't Visible to Public
A Level 1 finish indicates that joint tape has been applied to all the seams and corners of the drywall. Leaving walls at this level of finish could potentially be for a service corridor or store room- somewhere that it doesn’t matter what the walls look like. This level is also sometimes referred to as “fire taping” and is generally the minimum level required for rated wall assemblies
Level 2
Recommended for Garages, Storage & Utility Spaces
Level 2 receives no texture or paint. The difference is that the drywall receives an additional coat of mud over the embedded joint tape. An additional coat of drywall mud must also be applied over the drywall fasteners, hiding any screw or nail heads.
If you go out into your garage, chances are you’ll be looking at level 2 drywall. The surface should be smooth and free of any visible panel seams, but you can still see the mud lines. You’ll find level 2 most commonly used in warehouse spaces and unfinished garages.
Level 3
Interior Standard - Also Used When You Are Planning on Wallpapering or Using Hand/Spray Texture
Level 3 follows the same criteria as Level two, but one additional coat of joint compound is added over the joints and interior angles. Fastener heads and accessories shall be covered with two separate coats of joint compound. All joint compound shall be smooth and free of tool marks and ridges.
With level 3, you’re dealing with a relatively standard interior drywall finish. This level is meant to be textured and painted. Typically, level 3 drywall is covered in a medium to heavily textured finish to hide any imperfections.
Level 4
Upscale Interiors - Flat Paints & High-End Wallpaper
Level 4 drywall receives very little texturing if any. Great attention to detail goes into keeping the surface so smooth. As a result, texturing over the smooth surface would be somewhat counterproductive. Rather, you’ll find this type of drywall finish with either flat paint colors or covered with high-end wallpaper.
Level 5
Smooth Walls - High-End, Luxury Interiors, Galleries, Etc
Getting a level 5 drywall finish requires incredibly skilled work and many hours to complete. In addition to all the taping and coating necessary for level 4, the wall then receives a full skim coat of drywall mud on every surface. The result is a perfectly smooth wall from edge to edge. Texturing over this degree of drywall would be a faux pas of epic proportions. High-gloss, reflective paint is the go-to finish.