Site Search

Level 5 Drywall Taping

Jake Ezerzer

ARTICLE HIGHLIGHTS:

Are you a homeowner with questions about Level 5 drywall taping? Read here for expert advice on all its features and benefits from a casaGURU drywall GURU.

Why should I specify Level 5 drywall taping?

How many times have you looked at a painted wall or a ceiling and noticed where the tape joints have been applied? This is known in our industry as “joint flashing” or “photographing”. The “LEVEL 5 TAPING PROCESS” eliminates these imperfections on the wall and ceiling surfaces.

What is “Level 5” drywall taping?

A Level 5 Finish provides the highest level of surface finish possible for taping applications and painting preparation. It provides a base that equalizes the absorption rate between the drywall paper and the drywall compound which ensures a uniform surface for painting. “Joint flashing” and “photographing” are virtually eliminated. This is very important where critical lighting or natural lighting occurs, or when using dark colors, most flat, eggshell, semi-gloss, or high gloss paints.

The majority of people think “taping is taping”. Not so. There are in fact 5 levels of drywall taping according to the Gypsum Association. The most common form of taping that most taping companies provide is designated as” Level 4”. This consists of two separate coats of joint compound applied over all flat joints and one separate coat of joint compound applied over interior angles. The fastener heads and accessories are covered with three separate coats of joint compound. All joint compounds should be smooth and free of tool marks and ridges. At this point the tapers job is basically completed and the painters will apply a primmer and then proceed with 2 coats of paint.

What makes Level 5 so superior?

The additional expertise required to achieve a LEVEL 5 finish includes an understanding of how to apply a skim coat of drywall compound over the entire surface. Specific technologies are now available to apply a surfacer / primmer as oppose to the traditional method of skimming out (coating) the wall. It can be applied by either rolling or spraying. To achieve the best results, spraying is recommended.

You may think that this enhanced service can be rather costly. In fact, you will save money.

Features

Single process to ensure high quality “paint ready” surfaces.
Specific product designed for this application.
Superior wall coverage virtually eliminating “joint flashing” and “photographing”.

Benefits

Saves money by ensuring a superior surface area for painting and eliminating the “Priming Coat” of painting.
Saves money and time by minimizing callbacks caused by “joint flashing” and “photographing”.
Significant cost savings versus traditional separate applications of a skim and prime coat usually by separate contractors.
Durable coating hides minor surface defects
Ensures smoother finished walls and ceilings and longer life to the painted surface.

Locate a Level 5 Drywall Contractor at casaGURU.com