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Writer's pictureAnthony Carnicella

Drywall Smooth Wall Finish and Texture Coating

Level 5 Smooth Finish Drywall Installation and Taping for a 6000 Square Foot Home in Calabasas, CA


DIY Smooth Wall Finish

To find out more, visit our main website at www.acinteriorsinc.com



AC Interiors Drywall
AC Interiors Drywall

Serving a Wide Range of Areas to Include:


Living room drywall hanging, taping
Living room drywall hanging and taping

A full house in Calabasas, CA underwent complete demolition and patching of all arch openings. Approximately 300 sheets of 5/8" drywall were installed, taped, and skim coated to achieve a smooth level 5 finish.

All of the existing walls were skim coated 2-3 coats of joint compound then sanded to smooth ready for primer.



The final look of a wall or ceiling greatly relies on the quality of the framing work and the precision in installing the drywall sheets. A well-done framing and cladding job make achieving a flawless wall much simpler. After achieving this, the only task left is to properly finish the joints to meet your desired appearance standards.


Levels 1-5 Smooth Wall Finish" denotes the various grades of finish that are used on drywall surfaces. These grades are established by the drywall sector and determine the level of smoothness and quality achieved during the finishing phase. Below is a concise summary of each level:


Level 1:


At its most fundamental stage, this process entails applying tape and mud to the seams between drywall panels. The final appearance is not meant to be seen, as it is usually concealed by a different material such as texture or wallpaper.


Level 2:


Aside from taping and mudding, Level 2 also includes the application of a layer of joint compound over the fasteners and accessories. This level of finish is appropriate for surfaces that will be textured heavily or where a more refined finish is unnecessary.


Level 3:


Level 3 is a smoother finish, ideal for spaces where the walls will have a light to medium texture or will be painted. This level requires an extra layer of joint compound applied over the tape and fasteners, resulting in a relatively even surface.


Level 4:


Intended for spaces where the final appearance will feature a non-textured paint, this level is appropriate. Level 4 requires an extra layer of joint compound compared to Level 3, focusing more on achieving a smooth and seamless finish along the compound's edges. This process results in a uniformly even surface.


Level 5:


For areas with critical lighting conditions, such as those with glossy paints, it is advisable to opt for Level 5, which represents the top tier of finishing. This level entails applying an extra skim coat of joint compound across the entire surface to reduce the visibility of joints, fasteners, and imperfections. The resulting finish is smooth and primed for a top-notch paint application.


To ensure a smooth wall finish, it is crucial to clearly communicate the preferred level of finish to your contractor or drywall professional. The selection of the level should be based on the planned use of the area, lighting circumstances, and the desired end look.



Technique for Achieving a Polished Surface


To achieve a smooth wall finish with drywall, you need to carefully prepare, apply, and finish the surface. Below is a detailed guide to assist you in achieving a smooth wall surface:

Materials and Tools:

Drywall sheets

Joint compound (mud)

Drywall tape

Drywall screws

Joint knives (4-inch, 6-inch, and 10-inch)

Drywall sandpaper or sanding screen

T-square or straight edge

Mud pan

Sanding pole or sanding block

Primer and paint


Step 1: Install Drywall

Measure and Cut: Measure the wall, cut drywall sheets to fit, and install them using screws.

Tape Seams: Apply drywall tape to seams, pressing it into a thin layer of joint compound.

Step 2: First Coat (Taping Coat)

Mix Joint Compound: Mix joint compound to a creamy consistency.

Apply Joint Compound: Using a 4-inch knife, apply a thin coat of joint compound over the taped seams. Feather the edges to blend with the wall.

Step 3: Second Coat (Fill Coat)

Widen Seams: For the second coat, use a 6-inch knife to widen the area covered with joint compound.

Apply Second Coat: Apply a second coat of joint compound, feathering the edges.

Step 4: Third Coat (Finish Coat)

Widen Further: For the final coat, use a 10-inch knife to widen the area covered with joint compound.

Apply Final Coat: Apply a third and final coat, ensuring a smooth and even finish. Feather the edges well.

Step 5: Sanding

Allow to Dry: Allow the joint compound to dry completely.

Sand Smooth: Use fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding screen to smooth the surface. Sand in a circular motion, blending the edges.

Step 6: Primer and Paint

Prime: Apply a primer to the smooth, sanded surface.

Paint: Once the primer is dry, paint the wall with your chosen paint color.

Tips:

Lighting is Key: Adequate lighting helps identify imperfections. Shine a light across the wall to catch any bumps or uneven areas.

Use Quality Tools: Invest in good-quality joint knives and sandpaper for a smoother finish.

Patience is a Virtue: Allow each coat of joint compound to dry completely before applying the next one.

By following these steps and paying attention to detail, you can achieve a smooth and professional-looking finish on your drywall.


 

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