A smooth, flawless wall surface can transform any interior space—from giving your home a polished look to making your business premises look professionally finished. Whether you’re dealing with new construction or a renovation project, drywall plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect surface. However, achieving smooth, seamless drywall isn’t just about slapping on some plaster and paint—it takes technique, the right materials, and a keen eye for detail.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through easy and practical ways to make your drywall look smooth and nice, just like the pros do. And if you’re looking for professional help, we’ll also share how hiring a trusted drywall company Surrey can make a big difference in the final results.
Why Smooth Drywall Matters
Before we jump into techniques, it’s important to understand why smooth drywall is important:
Visual Appeal: Smooth walls enhance the aesthetics of your space. Imperfections catch light and create shadows, making them noticeable.
Painting Quality: Uneven surfaces affect how paint is absorbed and applied.
Property Value: Professionally finished drywall adds value to your home or commercial building.
Longevity: A proper drywall finish lasts longer and requires fewer touch-ups.
- Start with High-Quality Drywall Sheets
The foundation of any good wall starts with the right material. Choose premium-grade drywall sheets, especially if you’re working in areas prone to moisture or wear and tear.
Pro Tip:
Use moisture-resistant drywall (green board or blue board) for kitchens, bathrooms, or basements. Standard drywall works best in living rooms and bedrooms.
If you’re working with a drywall company in Surrey, they’ll help you choose the right type for each area of your home.
- Use the Right Tools for a Smoother Finish
Invest in quality tools—it makes a significant difference in how smooth your drywall ends up. Essential tools include:
Taping knife (6″, 10″, 12″)
Joint compound (mud)
Corner trowel
Sandpaper or sanding sponge (120 to 220 grit)
Drywall sander (manual or electric)
Putty knife
Dust mask or respirator
Using the right-sized knife helps spread the compound evenly without creating harsh lines or ridges.
- Apply Joint Compound in Multiple Thin Coats
When applying joint compound, it’s better to go with three thin coats rather than one thick layer. Here’s how:
Step-by-Step:
First Coat: Apply over seams and joints using a 6″ knife. Embed drywall tape into the mud and smooth it out.
Second Coat: Use a 10″ knife to feather the edges and widen the area covered.
Third Coat: Finish with a 12″ knife, applying a thin layer to cover any remaining imperfections.
Allow each coat to dry completely before moving to the next—rushing this process leads to uneven textures and cracks.
- Sand Between Coats for a Professional Touch
Lightly sand each coat once it dries using 120 or 150-grit sandpaper. This ensures the next layer goes on smoothly.
Don’t over-sand, especially on the tape lines, as this can expose the tape and cause cracking later.
Bonus Tip:
Use a drywall vacuum sander to reduce dust or wet-sand with a sponge to minimize airborne particles. A reputable drywall company in Surrey will always prioritize clean sanding practices, especially in occupied homes.
- Use Primer Before Painting
Priming isn’t optional—it’s essential if you want a smooth paint job. Primer seals the drywall and joint compound, preventing uneven paint absorption.
Use a drywall-specific primer or a high-build primer that fills in minor imperfections.
Let the primer dry thoroughly, then lightly sand the surface with 220-grit paper before painting. This gives your topcoat a perfect base.
- Pay Attention to Corners and Edges
Corners are often where imperfections are most visible. Use corner beads and a corner trowel for sharp, clean lines. Apply compound over the bead and feather it out smoothly.
Outside corners should be protected with metal or plastic beads, while inside corners need precise mudding and sanding.
Hiring a drywall company in Surrey can ensure these difficult areas are handled expertly, especially in rooms with complex angles.
- Use Lighting to Spot Imperfections
After your final coat and sanding, use a shop light or flashlight held at an angle to the wall to reveal hidden imperfections. This technique shows:
Bumps
Scratches
Uneven textures
Tool marks
Touch up the flaws with a thin coat of compound, sand again, and recheck. Many pros rely on this trick before calling a job complete.
- Use Skim Coating for Flawless Walls
If your drywall has many imperfections or was previously painted or repaired, applying a skim coat can make a huge difference.
A skim coat is a thin layer of joint compound applied over the entire wall. Once dry and sanded, it leaves a super-smooth finish.
This technique is labor-intensive and best left to experts. A skilled drywall company in Surrey will provide skim coating services as part of finishing or renovation work.
- Keep Your Workspace Clean
Drywall work is messy. Dust, joint compound spills, and sanding debris can make your surface dirty—affecting the final result.
Always:
Clean your tools between coats
Vacuum or sweep the workspace
Cover floors and furniture
Wear a mask to protect from dust
A clean environment ensures no dust or particles get embedded in the drying compound or primer.
- Know When to Call a Professional
While DIY drywall work is possible for minor repairs, achieving a perfect, smooth finish takes skill, patience, and experience.
If you’re remodeling, constructing a new space, or repairing major drywall damage, hiring a professional drywall company in Surrey saves you time, frustration, and often money in the long run.
They bring:
Trained drywall installers and finishers
Professional tools and materials
Guaranteed results
Quick turnaround
Cleanup and disposal services
Whether it’s a home, office, or commercial building, partnering with an experienced team ensures your drywall looks smooth, strong, and ready for years of use.
Conclusion
Smooth drywall isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about craftsmanship, planning, and attention to detail. From choosing quality materials and applying thin coats to sanding and priming properly, each step contributes to a flawless finish.
Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or planning a professional renovation, following these easy tips can help you achieve beautiful walls that enhance your space.
If you’re in British Columbia and want expert help, trust a reliable drywall company Surrey to bring your vision to life. With their experience and dedication to quality, you’ll enjoy smooth, perfectly finished walls without the hassle.
