The Australian Standard AS/NZS 2589:2017 'Gypsum linings - Application and finishing' defines three levels of finish for plasterboard walls and ceilings. These are named Level 3 to Level 5, with Level 5 being the highest standard.
To ensure a smooth finish where joints are not visible it is important to choose the level of finish that best suits your application. A few things to consider before selection include wall framing, lighting, paint type and colour.
The standard finish to residential dwellings and commercial interiors are usually prepared to a Level 4 Finish.
However, with modern trends of open plan living, larger windows and more well lit areas, increases the chance to see the texture difference between plasterboard paper on the walls and ceilings and the jointing compound. Despite good workmanship from plasterers and painters, not all but some of these areas described should be finished with a Level 5 Finish before the application of paint.
A Level 5 Finish starts with the metal or timber frame studs that must be within 3mm of a flush finish.
Next plaster is to be hung and jointing compound applied in a 3 coat system, 2x base coat 1x top coat to all joints, fixings and externals angles. All internal angles to be finished with a 2 coat system, 1x base coat 1x top coat. After joints, fixings and angles have been sanded, smooth and blemish free this will give you a completed Level 4 Finish.
Next up to get you to a Level 5 Finish, what has previously been completed to a Level 4 Finish on either your walls or ceilings will now be entirely coated in Gyprock One Finish, roll or spray-on surfacer.
This can either be left once dry if you're after a courser look, or sanded to a smooth flat finish ready for the application of paint.
For professional advice on what areas should and should not be completed with a Level 5 Finish, reach out to the team at Steel Group Plaster.
Level 3
Level 3
For use in areas that do not require a finish, such as above ceilings and inside service shafts, bathroom walls that are being tiled or waterproofed other inaccessible spaces. All joints are to be taped with two applications of compound and all Fixing heads are to be covered. Compound is to be finished smooth and flat, by scraping edges, joints etc.
Level 4
Level 3
The standard finish to residential dwellings and commercial interiors are usually prepared to a Level 4 Finish.
jointing compound applied in a 3 coat system, 2x base coat 1x top coat to all joints, fixing holes and externals angles. All internal angles to be finished with a 2 coat system, 1x base coat 1x top coat. After joints, fixings and angles have been sanded, smooth and blemish free this will give you a completed Level 4 Finish.
Level 5
Level 5
Level 5 Finish, what has previously been completed to a Level 4 Finish on either your walls or ceilings will now be entirely coated in Gyprock One Finish, roll or spray-on surfacer. This can either be left once dry if you're after a courser look, or sanded to a smooth flat finish ready for the application of paint.
- For use in areas with critical light.
- Large windowed areas.
- Skylights
- Outdoor ceilings/areas
- Gloss or dark paints.