What is skim coating? Skimming coat is an excellent way to bring faded, ugly ceilings and walls back to life! A skim coating, also called a level-5 drywall finish, is an extremely thin layer of diluted joint compound which can be applied either by hand, with a paint roller or even with a paint sprayer. The compound gives the wall a "new" look without changing the underlying structure of the wall.

How do I apply it? Skim coat can be applied using almost any all-purpose or specialty paint mixing solvents. The most toxic are petroleum based bonding solvents and paint additives. In fact, these types of compounds can actually damage your lungs over long periods. Use of these solvents should only be reserved for large jobs that require the application of thick coats of compound.

So, what is skim coating? Skim coating, used on painted walls, ceilings and floors, gives the wall a flat, clean surface. This is accomplished by applying a thin, dilution-based layer of drywall compound over a base color. Most paint stores and home improvement centers carry a wide range of joint compound choices. You should choose a color and mix size that will give you the best visual effect and provide you with the best resistance to the elements.

Why would anyone want to do this? Skim coating is a great way for you to restore flat, worn out walls to the original gloss they were once known for. It can also be used to repair some scratched and damaged floors, patio and concrete walkways. This type of repair can provide you with a gorgeous, clean, modern look, without the expense and mess of completely replacing the area.

How does it work? Skim coating works by exposing the underneath surfaces of damaged walls or floors to a high-powered thin-film water-based coating agent. This penetrates the surface with a strong layer of water-resistant joint compound, creating a smooth, glossy surface. Some products are oil-based, but most are either water- or moisture-based. Since it's almost always oil-based, the product must be applied as directed to avoid damage to your floors or the walls themselves.

What are the benefits? The primary benefit of using a paint roller is that the product can create a smooth, glossy surface from any type of damaged drywall or painted wall. By applying the coating in small, even layers, the paint can cover even the smallest of imperfections. If you choose to use a roller, you'll be left with a beautiful, professional finish after every single coat. This means a quick and easy repair job, and it allows you to save time and money on materials, allowing repairs to go on much faster than with traditional techniques.

Skim coating also works well with masonry surfaces. It leaves a very smooth, durable finish on wood, ceramic tile and concrete. However, it's a good idea to use latex or a primer before applying the coating, if you're working with an already damaged surface. A primer will help add some strength to the new coating and help keep it from bubbling or cracking.

The technique used to create this unique finish isn't difficult to learn, but it does take practice. Skim coatings must be done carefully, because they often contain a high degree of joint compound. When applying a thick, thin coat of compound onto a damaged drywall surface, you can often create an optical illusion that causes a "duck blind" appearance around the area where the compound has been applied. This is known as "hot spots." A skilled contractor can avoid these problems completely by using a different application technique, but for most DIYers, a good paint job is probably a better option.