DRYWALL & DRYWALL FINISHING

Drywall

At OTTO Drywall LLC., we take pride in our superior drywall installation and taping services. With our team of experienced in-house professionals and a commitment to delivering exceptional results, we ensure that every project we undertake is completed to the highest standards of craftsmanship.

Drywall Finishing (taping)

The mark of good drywall installation is that you don’t notice it’s there. It often goes unappreciated, drywall does more than just add a surface covering to your walls.

It protects against:

  • Fire

  • Insulates sound

  • Increases your home’s energy efficiency.

But did you know that there are five different levels of drywall finish quality?

The level of drywall finish quality depends largely on the type of room where the drywall is installed. What works in the garage doesn’t work in a multi-million dollar master suite. 

What are the different drywall finishing Levels?

Guide to Common "Finish" Levels for Drywall

Below is a breakdown of the different finish levels for drywall to help you better understand the distinctions.

Understanding these standard finish levels can help you communicate your drywall finishing preferences clearly and effectively to your contractor.

  • LEVEL 0

    Unfinished

    The Level 0 finish represents the most basic state of drywall installation. At this level, the drywall sheets are attached and fastened to the wall frames, but no additional treatment or finishing is performed. Level 0 finishes are typically found in unfinished spaces, such as basements or garages, where aesthetics are not a priority. The surface is rough and may have visible joints or nail heads.

  • LEVEL 1

    Taped and Smoothed

    Level 1 represents a minimal level of drywall finishing suitable for areas that will be covered by heavy-duty textures or non-reflective materials. At this level, joint tape is applied to all seams and corners, and at least one coat of joint compound is used to smooth out the tape. However, the surface is not sanded, resulting in a rough and uneven finish.

  • LEVEL 2

    Taping and First Coat

    Level 2 finishes are commonly used in areas that will be covered with lighter textures or semi-gloss paint. In addition to the Level 1 treatment, Level 2 requires the application of a second coat of joint compound, which is spread over the tape and the screw indentations to create a smoother surface. Although the finish is improved compared to Level 1, it still requires sanding to achieve a more refined look.

  • LEVEL 3

    Smooth and Ready for Paint

    Level 3 represents a good standard for most residential applications where paint or light textures will be applied. This level requires the application of a third coat of joint compound, which is carefully spread and feathered out to minimize any visible marks or imperfections. The joints, screws, and fastener heads are concealed, resulting in a smooth surface ready for paint or light textures.

  • LEVEL 4

    Fire-Tape Finish

    Level 4 finishes are typically required for commercial properties or high-end residential projects. In addition to the Level 3 treatment, a thin skim coat of joint compound is applied over the entire surface to further reduce any visible joints, fasteners, or imperfections. The surface is then sanded to achieve a smooth and professional finish that is ready for any decorative treatment, including gloss or semi-gloss paint.

  • LEVEL 5

    Highest Quality Finish

    Level 5 finishes are the ultimate standard of drywall finishing suitable for critical lighting or high-gloss paint applications. This level requires the application of a skim coat of joint compound over the entire surface, similar to Level 4. However, the skim coat is applied in multiple layers, carefully sanded, and inspected thoroughly to ensure an incredibly smooth and blemish-free finish here

For more information about drywall installation, drywall finishing, or to schedule a free estimate, call or text us at 920-397-5991 or Contact us.