I'm trying to determine if my drywall finish is at the right level before painting with Color Atelier limewash paint, which is a flat finish. My contractor applied 2 coats of mud, sanded it down, and said it's good to go. While it feels smooth, I can still see some scratches from the sanding. Since I'm using a high-quality paint, I want to ensure the walls are properly finished. I did a trial with Benjamin Moore paint in my closet and included some photos to give you an idea of the finish (ignore the rough edges since I couldn't reach them with the roller). Here's how it looks under bright light too. Thanks for any input!
4 Answers
To really assess the finish, shine a bright light across the surface; that will reveal any imperfections. Generally, a flat finish paint shows defects less than glossy ones. I'm guessing your drywall finish is around a level 3. For a level 5, the whole wall needs to be skim-coated and sanded. It looks like your fasteners aren't heavily coated, which suggests closer to a level 2 finish. Here's a helpful page explaining the drywall finish levels if you're interested!
Honestly, I think it’s just a level 2 finish—not ready for painting, especially if you're aiming for a high-end look. Your contractor might have been a bit lazy. It’s important to address these imperfections before you move forward with the final paint. You want it to look its best, right?
It's frustrating! He was doing a soundproofing job that involved layers, and we already had a disagreement when he skipped using the acoustical sealant. I was in disbelief when he said it was ready, especially after seeing scratches coming through.
If you want that flat wall look (level 5 finish), your contractor should have advised to put on a few coats of high volume (PVA) primer and sand between each coat. This is also the perfect time for adding any texture if you want it. It's crucial to inspect the walls with a handheld light from different angles to spot any flaws before applying your premium paint. Better to fix any issues now than after the final coat!
Don't skip the primer regardless of the mud quality! The drywall will absorb a lot of paint, so a good primer is essential to prepare the surface for your final paint. It helps to ensure the best finish and even coverage.
Thanks for the tip! I did hold a work light up and here’s how it looks now. Do you think it's ready? (Link to updated image)