PAINT SKIM COAT FREE

(Ref: Table 4.2.2 AS/NZS 2589 (2007) Level 4 Skim CoatedĪ level 4 finish skim-coated is not equivalent to a level 5 finish.ĪS/NZS 2589:2007 “Gypsum Linings – Application and Finishing” for plasterboard clearly nominates that a level 4 finish is the standard level of finish for plasterboard linings where normal decoration by painting is to be carried out.

Note: Framing deviations and tolerances are: 4mm over 1.8 straight edge for 90% of the area, remainder 5mm.

PAINT SKIM COAT FREE

In preparation for painting, the joint cement/compound must be finished evenly and free of tool marks or ridges. A further two coats of joint cement/compound are then applied over all joints, fastener heads, angles etc.

All joints and interior angles will need tape embedded into the first coat of joint cement/compound. To achieve the default or standard level of finish for plasterboard, the jointing shall comprise of a three coat system. These higher sheen levels or darker colours can highlight surface imperfections or blemishes, hence a higher level of finish may be the only effective way to achieve a surface that can be decorated satisfactorily. Alternatively, a level 5 finish will need to be employed where the critical lighting conditions, such as low angle glancing light or spot lighting, are employed in conjunction with higher sheen level paints and/or darker colours on feature walls. Where a level 4 finish is exposed to critical lighting, it should be considered to employ wall coverings or textured coatings. To achieve the specified level 5 finish, very close collaboration between the builder, carpenter/framer, plasterboard installer, plasterer and the painter is essential for a successful outcome. When the expectations go beyond what can realistically be achieved with a level 4 finish, it is necessary for designers to carefully evaluate the benefits and cost implications of specifying a level 5 finish. It is difficult to achieve the correct expectation for the default level 4 finish should be “A level surface with no visible joints” and “a serviceable and uniform decorative finish”. Whilst most dwelling occupants have an expectation that the plasterboard finish will be completely blemish free, with zero defects, this is unrealistic. Level 5 finish does not however mean that the surface is without texture variation. Level 5: The highest level of finish (when specified) for plasterboard lining where the desired outcome is to have a finished surface that is as free as possible from surface defects and visual blemishes. Unless otherwise specified, a level 4 finish shall be taken as the default standard level of finish for plasterboard (as defined in AS/NZS 2589 (2007). Level 4: The standard level of finish for plasterboard lining where normal decoration by painting is to be carried out. These areas are not painted or decorated and the final appearance is not important. above ceilings or inside service shafts etc). Level 3: Specified for areas that do not require any decoration (ie. (Refer to figure 3.1.2 “Selection of level of finish for lining”). There are three levels of finish as defined by AS/NZS 2589:2007 “Gypsum linings – application and finishing” for plasterboard. Three levels of finish for decoration finish: Leaving this decision until the decoration stage, after installation and/or finishing is complete, may not produce the desired outcome. The decision on what level of finish is desired or needed should be determined at the design stage. The desired level of finish for plasterboard is a predetermined outcome that is specified and engineered not just an eventual appearance or paint decoration that is left to chance. Most domestic and commercial buildings are prepared to a level 4 finish. Plasterboard linings will require different specifications depending on where they are installed and the level of finish that is required prior to decoration.

Paint skim coat