TapeAndFloat.comLevel 5 finish (skim coat)
By James Grokman, CEO, TapeAndFloat · Updated 2026-10-28
Under GA-214, a Level 5 finish is everything in Level 4 plus a thin skim coat of mud, or a material made for that purpose, over the entire surface, to even out texture and suction before paint.
Why it matters on a drywall job
- A skim coat covers the whole wall, not just the joints, so labor and material are usually much higher than Level 4.
- If Level 5 is requested after you bid Level 4, it's usually a change order.
Related guides and tools
TapeAndFloat helps drywall and tape-and-float contractors keep up with the office side: bids, change orders, pay apps and follow-ups. Free 60-day pilot. If you stay on, we agree on the price with you up front.
¿Prefiere español? Acabado Nivel 5 (capa de alisado).