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Levels of Drywall Finishing


Level One


All joints and interior angles have tape embedded in joint compound. Tool marks and ridges are acceptable.Typically used for Plenum spaces, attics, service corridors. Often referred to as “Fire Taping”.

Level Two


All joints and interior angles have tape embedded in joint compound and wiped smooth, leaving a thin coat of compound over tape. One coat of compound applied over fasteners and accessories. Tool marks and ridges are acceptable. Typically used for tile backer, garages, warehouses, where surface appearance is not a concern.

Level Three


All joints and interior angles have tape embedded and one seperate coat of compound applied to joints and interior angles. Two seperate coats are applied over fasteners and accessories. Free of tool marks and ridges.Typically used for most conditions, and to receive textures or heavy wall coverings. Not suitable for smooth paint or light wall covering.

Level Four


All joints and interior angles have tape embedded and two separate coats of compound applied to joints and interior angles. Three seperate coats are applied over fasteners and accessories. Free of tool marks and ridges. Typically used for smooth paints and light textures or wall coverings, flat paints in critical lighting. Not recommended for gloss or semi-gloss paints.

Level Five


All joints and interior angles have tape embedded and two seperate coats of compound applied to joints and interior angles. Three seperate coats are applied over fasteners and accessories.

Finally, a skim coat of joint compound or other suitable material (spray applied surface equalizers such as pre-coat level V and tough hide) is applied over the entire surface, and troweled or wiped down leaving a tight smooth film. Must be free of tool marks and ridges. Recommended for severe lighting conditions, smooth surfaces receiving high sheen (gloss, semi-gloss) paints. Minimizes joint shadowing.

Levels of Finish for gypsum board have been established by broad Industry consensus. For a good finish which meets industry standards the appropriate level of finish must be specified in the contract documents. Levels must be determined by the design authority based upon lighting exposure and final paint or decorating decisions.

Important Drywall Finishing Considerations

It is important to know the:

  • Desired final appearance
  • Function of the room or space
  • Location of the wall or ceiling light sources
  • Type, angle and sources of illumination
  • Placement of windows and natural light sources
  • Type, colour and method of painting, wall covering, or finished surface texture

Recommended Procedures for Judging Gypsum Wallboard