The GA-214 levels decoded for bidding: what's in each level, where specs demand it, and why pricing everything at Level 4 gives away margin in both directions.
Finish levels standardize what "finished drywall" means, defined in GA-214 and referenced by nearly every spec section 09 29 00. They matter to estimators because each level carries different compound quantities and dramatically different labor - and because specs scatter level requirements across finish schedules, lighting notes and paint sections where square-footage estimators never look.
Board hung, nothing more. Temporary construction and surfaces awaiting other treatment.
Tape embedded in compound at joints; no finish coats needed. Concealed rated assemblies - above ceilings, in shafts - where inspectors check it and occupants never see it. Skipping it in the bid is a classic miss.
Tape embedded plus one coat over joints and fasteners. Behind tile backer, in garages and storage. Pricing tile areas at Level 4 is donated labor.
Additional coat over Level 2. Surfaces receiving heavy textures or thick wallcoverings. Roughly 7 gallons of compound per 1,000 SF.
Three coats at joints, two at fasteners and accessories. Standard for flat paints and light textures - the default when a spec says nothing. Roughly 9-10 gallons per 1,000 SF.
Level 4 plus a skim across the entire surface. Required at gloss and semi-gloss paints and critical lighting - wall-wash fixtures, raking daylight, long corridors. Compound climbs to roughly 14 gallons per 1,000 SF and finishing labor increases by a third or more. The most expensive words in a spec book are "Level 5" on page 240.
Separate board area by specified level before pricing. Chase level callouts through the room finish schedule, the 09 29 00 section, the painting section (gloss paints imply Level 5) and lighting notes. Where documents conflict, carry the stricter and flag it in writing. Our taping and finishing takeoffs deliver exactly this breakdown.
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