How a Level 5 drywall finish is applied

Start with a good Level 4

A Level 5 finish sits on top of a properly finished Level 4 surface: taped joints, fasteners and angles coated and sanded smooth. A skim coat will not hide poor base work, so the quality of the Level 4 decides the quality of the final surface.

The skim coat

A thin layer of joint compound is applied over the entire wall or ceiling, by spray, roller or trowel depending on the crew and the conditions. After it dries it is sanded lightly to a uniform surface. The goal is to even out the texture and porosity difference between the board paper and the compound at the joints.

Primer and paint matter

A suitable primer or sealer goes on before finish paint, and the paint sheen affects how much the surface shows. Gloss and semi-gloss paints, strong side lighting and long windowed walls reveal flaws, which is why they are the usual reasons to specify Level 5.

• Check the lighting at different times of day before judging a surface
• Keep the space dry and enclosed while compound cures
• Protect finished walls from damage and dust from other trades

Pricing Level 5

Because it adds material and labor over the whole surface, Level 5 should be specified where it is needed. Send the finish schedule with your plans and we will price Level 4 and Level 5 areas separately so you can see the difference.

Also see: Drywall & finishingLevel 4 vs Level 5All articles

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