Ceiling surface quality
Ceilings should be flat with no visible joints, nail pops, or texture inconsistencies. Crown molding junction should be clean.
Standard
Ceilings should be flat with no visible joints, nail pops, or texture inconsistencies. Crown molding junction should be clean.
How to check
1. Look at ceiling from an angle with a raking light (hold flashlight at ceiling level) — reveals imperfections
2. Check for visible drywall joints or tape lines
3. Look for nail pops or screw dimples
4. Check texture consistency — should be uniform throughout
5. Inspect corners where ceiling meets walls — should be straight and clean
6. Check for any cracks at joints (may indicate truss uplift or settling)
7. Verify light fixtures are flush with ceiling surface
8. Check for sags between joists (indicates undersized drywall or joist spacing too wide)
Common problems
- Visible joints or tape lines (poor finishing or inadequate drywall level)
- Nail pops (normal in first year — builder should fix)
- Inconsistent texture (sprayed too close or too far)
- Cracks at wall-ceiling junction (truss uplift — common, usually cosmetic)
- Sagging drywall between joists (1/2" drywall on 24" centers needs support)
- Light fixture not flush with ceiling