Tips, updates, and industry news from the Team Drywall crew
Tips & Advice
The Difference Between Drywall Finish Levels — What You Need to Know
Not all drywall finishes are equal. From Level 1 (fire-taped only) to Level 5 (full skim coat), the right finish level depends on your lighting, paint sheen, and intended use. Here's what each level means and when to use it.
Level 1Tape embedded in compound only. Used in areas where the surface won't be seen — above accessible ceilings, service corridors, storage rooms.
Level 2Tape + one coat over fasteners. Used in garages, warehouses, or anywhere that will receive a heavy texture. Not for paint.
Level 3Tape + two coats. Suitable for medium to heavy texture. Not recommended for smooth or semi-gloss finishes.
Level 4Tape + three coats. The residential standard. Suitable for flat and matte paints. This is what most homes receive.
Level 5Full skim coat over the entire surface. The premium finish — required for high-gloss or semi-gloss paints, strong side-lighting, or high-end interiors.
If you're unsure which level your project needs, our team will advise you during your free quote. Most Kelowna homeowners choose Level 4 for standard rooms and Level 5 for feature walls and main living areas.
Choosing the Right Drywall for Commercial Projects in BC
Commercial drywall isn't one-size-fits-all. BC Building Code requires specific assemblies depending on your occupancy type, fire separation rating, and moisture exposure. Here's a breakdown of the most common board types used in commercial construction.
Type X (Fire-Rated)
Required in fire separations between suites, mechanical rooms, and exit corridors. Achieves 1-hour or 2-hour ratings depending on the assembly.
Moisture-Resistant (Green/Purple Board)
Used in areas exposed to humidity — kitchens, bathrooms, change rooms, and exterior-adjacent walls. Required before tile in wet areas.
Abuse-Resistant Board
Common in high-traffic commercial spaces — schools, hospitals, hallways. Significantly harder than standard drywall and resists dents and punctures.
Standard 5/8" Board
Used in office ceilings, interior partitions, and non-rated walls. The workhorse of commercial construction — cost-effective and easy to finish.
Team Drywall works with general contractors across BC and Alberta on commercial projects of all sizes. We know the code requirements and will ensure your assembly spec is correct before we start.
5 Signs Your Drywall Needs Professional Repair (Not a DIY Patch)
Small nail holes are a quick DIY fix. But there are situations where a patch-and-paint won't cut it — and where trying can actually make things worse. Here are five signs it's time to call a professional drywall contractor in Kelowna.
1
Cracks longer than 6 inches
Hairline cracks are cosmetic. Long, diagonal, or recurring cracks — especially around doors and windows — can indicate structural movement or settling. A pro will assess the cause, not just fill the crack.
2
Water stains or bubbling paint
Discoloration or bubbling usually means water is — or was — present. Drywall absorbs moisture and can harbour mould. Painting over it won't fix it. The damaged section needs to come out.
3
Sagging or soft ceiling panels
A ceiling that feels soft or sags when you press it is a safety concern. It can indicate water damage above, improper fastening, or board failure. Don't ignore it.
4
Holes larger than a fist
Larger holes need a backer board, proper taping, and blended finishing to look right. Without it, you'll see the patch every time the light hits it. A professional repair is invisible.
5
Texture that won't match
Orange peel, knockdown, skip trowel — matching existing texture is a skill. If the previous patch sticks out like a sore thumb, it's time to call someone who does this for a living.
