A field manual for Central Texas walls
Austin Drywall Guide
Board types, finish levels, cracks, water damage, permits and hiring, written for homeowners in Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Georgetown and Cedar Park. Every claim points to a public source.
- Level 0none
- Level 1taped
- Level 2one coat
- Level 3for texture
- Level 4flat paint
- Level 5skim coat
Contents
- 01Drywall basicsWhat the board is, which type goes where, and the words on a quote.
- 02Levels of finishThe industry scale from Level 0 to Level 5 and when each one applies.
- 03Cracks and holesNail pops, hairline cracks, dents and holes, and how each is repaired.
- 04Clay soil and cracksWhy Central Texas walls move, and when a crack is a foundation question.
- 05Water and moldWhat to do with wet drywall, and the size line that changes the plan.
- 06Permits and codesWhat the City of Austin says about drywall repair and remodel permits.
- 07Older homesPlaster, old texture, lead paint and asbestos before anyone sands.
- 08Hiring a contractorQuestions to ask, what to put in writing, and what Texas does not license.
Start where you are
I see a crack
Most cracks are small and seasonal. Read cracks and holes, then clay soil and cracks if it keeps coming back.
A wall got wet
Water changes the plan. Start with water and mold and the 10 square foot line EPA uses.
I am hiring someone
Texas does not require state licensing for contractors. Hiring a contractor has the questions to ask and what to put in writing.
Around Austin
Permit rules and housing differ by city. Each page lists the local permit office and what the public record says about the area.
Find a drywall contractor
The directory lists drywall contractors in and around Austin with address or service area, phone and website. Read the hiring chapter first, so you know what to ask and what to put in writing.
Austin, Texas
Common questions
What is the difference between a Level 4 and a Level 5 finish?
Both start with the same taping and coats. Level 5 adds a thin skim coat over the whole wall, which the Gypsum Association scale ties to non-flat paint, dark colors and critical lighting. Level 4 suits smooth walls with flat paint. See the levels of finish chapter.
Does Texas license drywall contractors?
The Texas Association of Builders says the State of Texas does not require contractors to be licensed, while electricians, heating and air conditioning professionals and plumbers are regulated. The City of Austin has its own contractor registration for permitted work.
Do I need a permit to repair drywall in Austin?
The City of Austin lists drywall repair in excess of 128 square feet among the minor repairs that can use its express permit. For anything else, ask the city. The permits chapter has the details.
Why do my walls crack in summer?
Much of the Austin area sits on clay that swells when wet and shrinks when dry, and the house moves with it. The clay soil chapter explains what to document before repairing.
Where can I find drywall contractors in Austin?
The directory lists drywall contractors in and around Austin with address or service area, phone and website. Compare two or three, and use the hiring chapter to check each one.
Sources: [1] texasbuilders.org [2] austintexas.gov [3] digital-release.kxan.com