CostToBuildAHouse.com
Curious what it would cost to build in your area? We produce line-item estimates by ZIP code, plan size, and finish level — from nearly 20 years of construction data.
A solid, high-quality finish – ready for your chosen texture and paint.
Level 3 drywall finish is the standard “good” finish for most new homes. It provides a smooth, even surface that is free of visible joint defects and ready to receive texture and paint.
Level 3 is a “good” quality finish where all joints, fasteners, and inside corners are taped and mudded. The surface is smooth and consistent with no visible joint lines, fastener heads, or tool marks under normal lighting.
All joints and inside corners are taped and the tape is embedded in joint compound.
A coat of joint compound is applied over all taped joints and inside corners, then feathered out.
A second coat is applied, wider than the first, to fill and further smooth the joints and corners.
A final coat is applied to all joints, corners, and fasteners and feathered to a smooth finish.
Once dry, the surface is sanded smooth to remove ridges, excess compound, and tool marks.
The surface is clean, smooth, and consistent – ready for texture application and painting.
Smooth, even surface with no visible joints or fasteners.
Minor tool marks or sanding shadows may be visible.
Surface is smooth and consistent, ready for texture.
Light texture with a soft, uniform look.
Most popular texture – adds subtle depth.
Hand-applied texture with a custom look.
Traditional ceiling texture for sound control.
Level 3 finish meets or exceeds the requirements of ASTM C840 and GA-214 for gypsum board finish quality.
Corner Bead on all outside corners
Tape on All Inside Corners
Screws/Nails Covered
All Joints Taped & Floated
Every home is different. A Cost To Build report gives you a line-item breakdown for your specific ZIP code, plan size, and finish level — from a company with nearly 20 years of construction cost data.