Everything You Need to Know about Drywall Finish Level 4
Once you have had drywall installed, you will need to create your own drywall finish in order to complete the drywall project. The finishing of the drywall involves placing it into a category or level. These levels were determined by the trade associations, and there are 5 different levels, ranging from the most basic to the most difficult. If you have a 0 level finish, then you will know that there is no drywall finish in the area.
Level 4 Drywall Finish
A level three type finish is of medium difficulty and will be done by a home improvement amateur, but one who has enough experience not to simply tape the drywall finish. If you are ready to begin with a level three drywall finish, then there are a few facts that you should know about the level 3 finish which can help you to get the most out of your work. Level three is best used in areas where there will not be a lot of friction or contact, for example the backs of closets, attic spaces, or boiler rooms. If you have drywall in your basement or crawl space, then you can also expect that this will be a level 3 finish.
What Is a Level 1 Drywall Finish?
In level 1, the drywall finish is done through a process known as 'taping'. This process means that the drywall has a layer of solvent such as joint compound placed over the gaps between the sheets of drywall. A piece of paper tape is then put over the solvent, and is pressed into it using a special drywall tool. The tape is then left to dry. This is the most basic of finishes, and so there is little concern for signs of tool marks, cleanliness of working, or other things which we would take for granted on a 'finish'.
Putting on the Tape
This level of drywall finish is all about the placing of the tape. In order to get the right attachment, use a specially prepared joint compound, and push it into the gaps between the sheets of drywall. You should only work two sheets at a time. The drywall compound will need a short amount of time to dry off properly, so you could proceed to the next pair of sheets once you have finished taping up one. Most commentators believe that the more liquid your compound, the better, although it should be firm enough to stay in position on the wall. You may like to try an all-purpose joint compound, which can be used in any area of the home. If you are not a professional, or do not have much experience of drywall finishing, then you should be able to buy tape with backing on it, which can simply be pushed against the sheets and doesn't need the compound.
