Drywall Finishing Cost Calculator

Drywall finishing costs $1.50–$2.50/sq ft for Level 3 (standard), $2–$3/sq ft for Level 4 (smooth), or $2.50–$4/sq ft for Level 5 (premium). A 400 sq ft room costs $600–$1,000 for Level 3, $800–$1,200 for Level 4, or $1,000–$1,600 for Level 5. Add $0.50–$1/sq ft for sanding. Does not include drywall hanging or materials.

Level 3: Two coats of joint compound, ready for texture or flat paint. Standard for most homes. Level 4: Three coats with smooth finish, ready for satin/eggshell paint or wallpaper. Required for non-textured walls. Level 5: Skim coat over entire surface for perfect smoothness. Used for gloss paint, critical lighting, or high-end homes. Each level adds $0.50–$1/sq ft.

Yes, but finishing requires skill and practice. DIY saves 60–70% on labor but results often show imperfections. Buy joint compound ($15–$25 per 5-gal bucket), taping knife ($10–$30), sanding pole ($20–$40). Expect 3–4 coats with 24 hrs drying between coats. Plan 1 week for average room. Professional finish looks smoother and takes 2–3 days.

Professional Level 3 finish takes 2–3 days for average room (first coat + 24 hrs dry, second coat + 24 hrs dry, sand 4 hrs). Level 4 adds 1 day for third coat. Level 5 adds 2 days for skim coat. Total elapsed time: 3–4 days for Level 3, 4–5 days for Level 4, 5–6 days for Level 5. Rush jobs cost 20–30% more.

Light sanding between coats removes ridges and high spots. Use 120-grit sandpaper, sand lightly to smooth transitions. Don't over-sand — you'll damage tape. Final sand after last coat uses 150–220 grit for smooth finish. Wet sanding reduces dust but takes longer. Sanding adds $0.50–$1/sq ft to professional quotes.

Skim coat is thin layer of joint compound over entire wall/ceiling surface for perfectly smooth Level 5 finish. Required for: gloss or semi-gloss paint (shows imperfections), critical lighting angles (wall washers, grazing light), high-end homes, covering old textured walls. Costs $1–$2/sq ft for labor. Not needed for textured finishes or flat paint.

Level 3 finish uses 0.05 gallons per sq ft (400 sq ft room = 20 gallons = 4 buckets). Level 4 uses 0.07 gal/sq ft (28 gallons = 6 buckets). Level 5 uses 0.10 gal/sq ft (40 gallons = 8 buckets). 5-gallon bucket costs $15–$25. Buy 10–20% extra for waste. Use lightweight compound for easier sanding.

Hire professionals for: Level 4-5 finishes (hard to DIY), large projects (whole house), visible areas (living rooms, kitchens), or if you lack experience. DIY acceptable for: garages, basements with texture, small repairs, rooms you'll texture/paint flat. Professional finish costs $1.50–$4/sq ft but looks smoother and saves time. Get 3 quotes.