When you’re planning to finish your walls with Venetian plaster or microcement, the quality of what sits beneath the surface matters just as much as the final look. One of the most common questions we hear is: “Do I really need a Level 4 finish before plaster goes on?”
Here’s everything you need to know.
Understanding the Levels of Finish
In New Zealand, plasterboard (GIB) surfaces are prepared to different “levels” depending on the final decoration. Each level indicates how smooth and defect-free the board must be.
- Level 3 – Suitable for textured coatings or heavy wallpaper
- Level 4 – Standard residential finish for most painted surfaces
- Level 5 – Premium finish for critical lighting or high-gloss paint
For microcement and Venetian plaster systems, Level 4 is the minimum requirement.
What Is a Level 4 Paint Finish?
A Level 4 finish is a high-quality, smooth substrate preparation where the joints, fasteners, and imperfections in plasterboard are finished to a uniform standard.
To achieve Level 4, your GIB installer or stopper will:
- Tape all joints and corners
- Apply multiple coats of joint compound
- Sand and feather edges until transitions are invisible
- Ensure all screw holes are filled flush
- Create a consistent, even, uniform surface
Why it matters: Any inconsistency in the surface will show through thin decorative coatings like plaster or microcement. These finishes are beautiful—and unforgiving.
Why Level 4 Is Essential for Microcement and Venetian Plaster
Novacolor Venetian plasters are applied in layers. This means the substrate must already be:
- Flat
- Even
- Free from ridges, humps, or hollows
- Sealed correctly
- Structurally sound
A Level 4 finish gives your applicator the best starting point so the product performs as it should. Without it, you risk:
- Telegraphed joints
- Visible screw lines
- Cracking caused by poor substrate preparation
- Uneven texture
- Higher labour costs, as the applicator must fix someone else’s prep work
Do You Need Level 5?
In most cases, no. Level 5 is designed for gloss or semi-gloss paint in harsh lighting – not plaster or microcement.
However, if your walls have:
- Strong natural light washing across them
- Skylights or raking light
- Large, long hallway walls
…it may be worth discussing with your applicator.
What Your Applicator Needs Before Starting
Before any Novacolor product goes on your walls, ensure:
- You have a confirmed Level 4 finish from your builder or stopping team
- All sanding is complete and dust has been removed
- Substrate is sealed correctly with the primer specified for your chosen system
- You have viewed and signed off the Applicator’s sample board
Getting the prep right saves time, cost, and stress later.
The Bottom Line
A Level 4 Paint Finish is the foundation of a flawless plaster or microcement surface. When the substrate is prepared properly, your final finish will look seamless, refined, and intentionally designed – exactly how it’s meant to.
If you’re unsure whether your walls meet Level 4, our team or your applicator can quickly assess this on-site and guide you on next steps.