GIB Stopping : Everything You Need to Know for a Smooth Finish.

When you’re renovating or building a home in New Zealand, GIB stopping is one of the most essential steps for achieving flawless interior walls. Whether you’re finishing a new build or updating a room, GIB stopping ensures that the surface is perfectly smooth and ready for painting.

In this guide, we’ll explain what GIB stopping is, why it matters, and how to get the best results for your home or office. Plus, we’ll share expert tips, and how Redecorators can help you complete the job to the highest standard.

What is GIB Stopping?

GIB stopping is the process of finishing the joints, corners, and screw holes on plasterboard (also known as GIB board) to create a seamless wall surface. It involves applying joint compound, embedding joint tape, sanding, and repeating this in multiple stages for a smooth result.

This step is crucial in preparing walls and ceilings before any professional interior painting is done.

Why is GIB Stopping Important?

Without professional GIB stopping, even expensive paint and decoration won’t look good. Here’s why it’s necessary:

  • Seamless Finish: Eliminates visible joints and screw lines.
  • Prevents Cracks: Stops minor movements from damaging the paint.
  • Boosts Property Value: Smooth, flawless walls make any space look modern and high-end.
  • Supports Quality Painting: Paint adheres better and looks smoother on well-prepped walls.

Pro tip: Before you hire a painter, make sure your GIB stopping is done correctly. At Redecorators, we ensure the walls are properly prepped before we start any painting work.

Levels of GIB Stopping (Level 3–5)

In New Zealand, GIB stopping is done to different finishing levels, depending on the room’s lighting and paint type.

  • Level 3 – Suitable for garages or utility areas where a basic finish is acceptable.
  • Level 4 – The standard finish for most homes; ideal for flat or low-sheen paints.
  • Level 5 – The highest standard; used in areas with critical lighting or where gloss paints are applied.

If you’re unsure which level you need, our plastering experts can assess your space and recommend the best option for your project.

When Do You Need GIB Stopping?

You’ll need GIB stopping in these common situations:

  • After installing GIB/plasterboard in new homes
  • During renovations or reconfigurations
  • After removing wallpaper or fixing large wall damages
  • As part of full-service interior renovations

GIB Stopping vs Plastering – What’s the Difference?

People often confuse GIB stopping with plastering, but they serve different purposes:

  • GIB stopping focuses on finishing GIB board joins and screw holes.
  • Plastering can involve skimming entire walls, fixing damage, or creating textures.

At Redecorators, we handle both under our painting and plastering services, so you don’t have to juggle multiple contractors.

How to Choose the Right GIB Stopper?

Hiring the right team can make a big difference in quality and finish. Here are a few things to look for:

  • Experience with residential and commercial projects
  • Ability to deliver Level 4 or 5 finishes
  • Clean, efficient work with minimal mess
  • Proven track record and local references

Our team at Redecorators is trusted across Lower Hutt and Wellington for timely, high-quality finishing work whether you’re prepping a home for sale or refreshing your family space.

Real Example: Transforming a Living Room

One of our recent clients in Waterloo, Lower Hutt, had uneven walls due to previous DIY fixes. We removed the old boards, installed new plasterboard, completed a full Level 4 GIB stopping job, and finished it with two coats of premium paint.

The result? A crisp, bright living space that looked brand new.

“The walls are so smooth now that even with sunlight pouring in, you can’t see any flaws. Highly recommend the Redecorators team!” — Homeowner, Lower Hutt

Let’s Get Your Walls To look Perfect

Whether you need a light repair or full home finishing, our team is ready to deliver. From GIB stopping to final painting, we take care of the details so you don’t have to.

Get in touch with us today for professional advice and a free quote on GIB stopping, painting, and plastering in Lower Hutt and nearby areas.