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Level 4 vs Level 5 Drywall Finish: When to Pay for the Upgrade
May 6, 2026 · 5 min read
Drywall finish levels (0–5) describe how smooth the wall is when the painter takes over. Level 4 is the standard for most residential walls. Level 5 adds a full skim coat over the entire surface.
The simple rule: if your wall lives in flat or matte paint with normal lighting, Level 4 is enough. If it lives in glossy paint, raking sunlight, or directly under a wall sconce — pay for Level 5.
Skimping where you shouldn't will cost you twice. Once when you paint, and again when you re-skim because the joints telegraph through the gloss. Tell your contractor where the light comes from before they quote.