Walls - Gypsum Board Finish Levels

Details

Category: Finishes

Gypsum wall board finishes are specified by ASTM C 840 and Gypsum Association GA-214-M-97.  These documents are summarized below.

Level 0 - There is no tape, joint compound, corner bead or any other accessories.  Used as a temporary barrier or in areas where the finishes have not been determined.

Level 1 - Tape is embedded in a single layer of joint compound at all joints and interior corners.  The surfaces must be free from excess joint compound, but tool marks and ridges are acceptable.  Generally used above ceilings and in back-of-house areas.

Level 2 - Tape is embedded in a layer of joint compound and then tooled with an additional thin layer of joint compound.  Fasteners and accessories shall be covered with one layer of joint compound.  The surfaces must be free from excess joint compound, but tool marks and ridges are acceptable.  Generally used above ceilings and in back-of-house areas, garages, and mechanical rooms.

Level 3 - Tape is embedded and tooled with an additional thin layer of joint compound (Level 2).  An additional coat of joint compound is applied.  Fasteners and accessories shall be covered with two coats of joint compound.  Fasteners and accessories shall be covered with two layers of joint compound.  All surfaces, including joint compound, shall be smooth and free of tool marks.   Used where a heavy wall covering or other heavy textured material will be applied over the wall surface.

Level 4 - Tape is embedded and tooled with an additional thin layer of joint compound (Level 2).  Two additional coats of joint compound are applied to board joints.  Interior corners receive one additional coat of joint compound.  Fasteners and accessories shall be covered with three layers of joint compound.  All surfaces, including joint compound, shall be smooth and free of tool marks.  A drywall primer shall be applied prior to final painting.  Used where flat paints and lightweight wall coverings will be applied over the wall surface.

Level 5 -  Tape is embedded and tooled with an additional thin layer of joint compound (Level 2).  Two additional coats of joint compound are applied to board joints.  Interior corners receive one additional coat of joint compound.  Fasteners and accessories shall be covered with three layers of joint compound.  Finally, a thin skim coat of joint compound (or other specialized material) is applied to the entire surface of the wall.  All surfaces shall be smooth and free of tool marks.  Level 5 is the highest level of finish and is used where semi-gloss, gloss, or other non-textured paints are used.  Also used where severe lighting conditions occur, such as wall-wash light fixtures.

2004 CSI Masterspec Division

Gypsum Board Assemblies: 09 21 16