Drywall finishing is one of those skills that looks easy until you try it. The good news: with the right technique and enough patience, DIYers can achieve professional-quality results. Here’s the level-by-level breakdown used by Ontario contractors.
The Five Levels of Drywall Finish
Level 0: Temporary — taped joints only, no finishing. Used during construction.
Level 1: Tape embedded in compound, excess wiped. Acceptable in attics, hidden spaces. Not paintable.
Level 2: Level 1 plus one coat of compound over tape and fasteners. Used in garages, utility areas. Still not paint-ready.
Level 3: Level 2 plus one additional coat. Required under heavy texture (skip trowel, knock-down). Not suitable for flat paint or satin finish.
Level 4: Level 3 plus one more coat, sanded smooth. Standard for residential rooms with flat or eggshell paint. This is what most Ontario homes should have.
Level 5: Level 4 plus a skim coat over the entire surface. Required for gloss or semi-gloss paint, or critical lighting situations. The most time-consuming but most forgiving finish.
Tools You Need
- 6", 8", and 12" drywall knives
- Corner trowel (inside and outside)
- Mixing paddle and 5-gallon bucket
- Pole sander (don’t hand-sand — you’ll be uneven)
- Shop vacuum for dust
- Good lighting (a work light at a steep angle reveals imperfections)
The Critical Mistake: Too Thick Per Coat
Most DIYers apply compound too thick, leading to cracking as it dries. Each coat should be thin — no more than 1/8". Better to do four thin coats than two thick ones.
When to Call a Pro
If you’re finishing more than 500 sq ft, or if the surface needs Level 5 finish, seriously consider hiring a professional taper/finisher. Labour rates in the GTA run $2.50–$4.00/sq ft for finishing.
Questions? Post them here. home.renovation.reviews — Canada’s renovation community.