In order to clear up confusion between drywall-finishing contractors and architects, four trade associations compiled a list of the five levels of drywall finishing. The list includes exact descriptions of the levels and what types of applications they are suitable for. An architect or builder can now tell a drywall-finishing contractor what levels of finish to apply to different areas---Level 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5---and the contractor will know exactly what is meant. Although it is not technically a level of finishing, Level 0 indicates that no drywall finishing is necessary.
Level 1
At this level of drywall finishing, all the joints are taped. "Taped" means that a layer of joint compound is put over the joints where two sheets of drywall meet. A strip of paper drywall tape is then placed over the layer of compound. The tape is then pressed into the compound by the wiping action of a drywall tool. At this level of finish, tool marks and ridges do not need to be smoothed away. This level is suitable for areas where people are not likely to stay for long, such as boiler rooms or closets.
Level 2
All joints are taped, as in Level 1. A thin coat of joint compound is then applied over all taped joints. This thin coating may be applied immediately after the tape is embedded. Additionally, the heads of the screws or nails used to fasten the drywall to the studs are covered with joint compound. Excess joint compound should be wiped off, but tool marks are acceptable. This level of finish is suitable for garages and storage areas.
Level 3
All joints are taped and all fasteners are coated, as in Level 2. Then a second coat of joint compound is applied over all taped joints and fasteners (this second coat is applied after the embedded tapes have dried). Tool marks and ridges should be smoothed away. This level of finish is appropriate for areas that will be covered with a spray texture surface, such as a popcorn finish. It is also suitable for areas that will be covered with heavy wallpaper. Before spraying texture or applying wallpaper, a coat of drywall primer should be applied to the finished drywall to ensure proper adhesion, but this is generally the painter's responsibility.
Level 4
All joints and fasteners are treated as in Level 3. Then a third coat is applied over all the joints (except interior angles) and over all the fasteners. Tool marks and ridges should not appear in the final product. This level of finishing is appropriate for areas that will eventually have flat paints or thin wall coverings. It is the most common level of finishing in residential construction and is suitable for areas that are lived in.
Level 5
All joints and fasteners are treated as in Level 4. Tool marks and ridges should be smoothed away. After that, a thin layer of joint compound is applied over the entire surface of the drywall. This is called a "skim coat." This level of finish is suitable for areas that will receive enamel, gloss, semi-gloss and certain non-textured flat paints. Once completed, this level of finish will provide the most uniform surface.
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