What it means
Lower levels, such as level 1 or 2, are used where the wall will be hidden or covered by tile. Level 3 is often used with heavy textures. Level 4 is common for standard painted walls. Level 5 adds a skim coat over the entire surface for the smoothest result.
The level is chosen based on the finish, the lighting and the paint sheen.
Why it matters
Lighting is the reason. Strong light shining along a wall, called critical lighting, shows every ridge and joint, and glossy paint makes it worse. A wall finished to the wrong level can show flaws that no amount of paint will hide.
Higher levels cost more and take longer, so specifying them everywhere wastes money, while specifying too low risks disappointment in key areas.
How HSM handles it
HSM's interior systems crew handles framing, board, taping and finishing, and our painters follow. Because the same company manages both, we match the finish level to the paint, the lighting and the location. A reception wall with feature lighting and a back-of-house storage room do not need the same finish.
We discuss these choices with you and the designer before work starts, and we inspect walls under raking light before painting begins.
What to plan for
Point out walls that will be lit from the side or finished in a gloss. Mention them during design so we can price the right level in the right places.