The Camberwell renovation involved whole-home levelling over mixed substrates — original plaster, partial drywall from a prior renovation, and brick internal walls in the extension. Living and dining areas with skylights were specified to AS/NZS 2589 Level 5 to eliminate joint banding under raking light. Bedrooms remained at Level 4. We stabilised drummy sections, applied bonding where required, and skim coated in three stages to manage drying in a heated home during winter. Homeowners remained on site; we sequenced work from rear bedrooms forward to keep essential areas accessible. The primary challenge was substrate variation between rooms — some walls had three layers of historical finish while others were recently sheeted. We mapped each zone before quoting and flagged areas needing strip-back rather than skim alone. Cornice junctions in the hallway showed cumulative settlement; we squared these with localised build-out before full skim to avoid shadow lines. Final painter feedback confirmed minimal extra prep — the outcome we design skim programmes to achieve. Handover documentation noted Level 5 zones and primer requirements for dark feature walls in the dining space.
Site Challenges
Three substrate types across one open-plan zone created different skim thickness limits. Skylight raking light exposed any shortcut in hallway levelling. Owners occupied the home through winter — dust and access through living areas required daily clean-down and phased room closure.
Our Approach
We surveyed each room and marked preparation method on a simple schedule shared with the owner. Level 5 zones received full skim after bonding; Level 4 bedrooms followed once living areas cured. Portable raking lights guided final sand in dining and hallway before sign-off.
Project Outcome
Painter reported no additional back-skim required in Level 5 zones. Dark dining feature wall received specified primer without joint telegraphing. Owner remained in residence throughout with only two nights of sealed hallway access. Project completed within the renovation window before kitchen cabinet install.
