Drywall tips and news from Team Drywall Kelowna
Field Notes

Newsfeed.

Tips, updates, and industry notes from the Team Drywall crew, for homeowners and contractors across BC and Alberta.

The difference between
drywall finish levels.

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 1

Tape embedded in compound only. Used in areas where the surface won't be seen: above accessible ceilings, service corridors, storage rooms.

Level 2

Tape + one coat over fasteners. Used in garages, warehouses, or anywhere receiving a heavy texture. Not for paint.

Level 3

Tape + two coats. Suitable for medium to heavy texture. Not recommended for smooth or semi-gloss finishes.

Level 4

Tape + three coats. The residential standard. Suitable for flat and matte paints. This is what most homes receive.

Level 5

Full skim coat over the entire surface. The premium finish, required for high-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.

Our Taping & Finishing Services

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 occupancy type, fire separation rating, and moisture exposure. Here's a breakdown of the most common board types used in commercial construction.

Fire-Rated
Type X

Required in fire separations between suites, mechanical rooms, and exit corridors. Achieves 1-hour or 2-hour ratings depending on the assembly.

Moisture
Green / Purple Board

Used in areas exposed to humidity, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and change rooms. Required before tile in wet areas.

High Traffic
Abuse-Resistant

Common in high-traffic spaces such as schools, hospitals, and hallways. Harder than standard drywall; resists dents and punctures.

Standard
5/8" Board

Used in office ceilings, interior partitions, non-rated walls. Cost-effective workhorse of commercial construction.

Team Drywall works with general contractors across BC and Alberta on commercial projects of all sizes. We know the code requirements and ensure your assembly spec is correct before we start.

Commercial Drywall Services

5 signs your drywall needs
a professional, not a patch.

Small nail holes are a quick DIY fix. But there are situations where 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. 01

    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. 02

    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. 03

    Sagging or soft ceiling panels

    A ceiling that feels soft or sags when you press it is a safety concern. Can indicate water damage above, improper fastening, or board failure. Don't ignore it.

  4. 04

    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. A professional repair is invisible.

  5. 05

    Texture that won't match

    Orange peel, knockdown, skip trowel: matching existing texture is a skill. If the last patch sticks out, it's time to call someone who does this for a living.

Drywall Repair Services

Got a drywall project?
Let's talk.

Free quote within one business day. Fast response.

Request a Free Quote 250 · 807 · 2700