A paint job is not complete without painting the ceiling. Here are some tips and tricks on how to choose ceiling paint, plus tips on which ones are best for the job.
How to Paint a Ceiling
Painting a ceiling can be a challenge for newbies. It would help if you began by painting the ceiling before the walls in the room. You can use a brush or roller, but a sprayer actually helps yield the best results for a flat surface ceiling.
Choose a paint that has a flat, non-glossy finish to remain muted. It is also a good idea to use a primer before you paint the ceiling. Or you can opt for a ceiling paint with primer in it. This will help your paint adhere to the surface better and provide longer-lasting results.
Tips for Painting a Ceiling
Before you commit to the job, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
– Choose paint with strong adhesion if you have an unusual surface (like drywall or stucco).
– Clean the ceiling before getting started.
– Measure your space and buy your paint accordingly. Don’t guess!
– Make sure the room temperature is somewhere between 50 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
– Do not paint the ceiling and walls the same shade. The ceiling should be a few shades whiter.
– Choose a product that is resistant to stains and corrosions and also provides more durability.
– Choose a different type of paint for living rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, as each room has different needs (water resistance vs. stain resistance).
What Is Latex Ceiling Paint?
Latex ceiling paints are very durable and remain resistant to cracking, peeling, and stains. It can hide old paint very well and is also low-splatter.
Ceiling Finishes
Ceiling paint can either be flat, eggshell, or glossy. Keep in mind that eggshell and glossy will really show up on the ceilings. Unless you are aiming for a reflective look, you may want to opt for flat paint instead. Flat paint will blend in more seamlessly and allow your walls to stand out more.
Ceiling Paint Color
It is best to stick with a light shade that complements your wall paint but isn’t exactly the same. One or two shades lighter is recommended on the ceiling for a look that draws the eyes upwards.
Flat White Paint
The number one choice for ceilings is most often flat white ceiling paint. It opens up the room and doesn’t compete with whatever motif you have on your walls.
How to Paint a Textured Ceiling
Flat latex paint will yield the best results when it comes to painting a textured ceiling. A sprayer is your best option here, but a roller can also be used. You may have to roll over the same areas a few times to get an even finish.
Best Ceiling Paints
The ceiling is where the room tops. Lighter colors can add illusions of depth, whereas darker shades can make the room feel smaller. Choose the best ceiling paint for your home. It pretty much goes without saying that lighter paint is usually the right choice for any room.
What you really want to pay attention to is the exact color and the sheen. Ideally, flat paint is the best choice for the ceiling. Glossy or even eggshell paints can really stand out on the ceiling. Unless you are going for an ambient look, you will probably benefit most from sticking to the flat finish paint. Here are some of the options:
EMR Shielding Solutions EMF Shielding Paint
This water-resistant and corrosion-resistant paint makes an excellent primer for any ceiling. It is a very tough paint but is also environmentally friendly. It is also suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Price: $229 (1.32 gal.)
Pros: Resistant to corrosion, water, and peeling. Blocks high-frequency radiation.
Cons: It is a costly ceiling paint.
Glidden Premium Ceiling Interior Flat EZ Track Ceiling Paint
This ceiling paint has much less of an odor than some other options, thanks to its low-VOC formula. It also easy to apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.
Price: $22.98 (1 gal.)
Pros: Goes from pink to white to allow you to track progress and is easy to apply.
Cons: Not recommended for use in bathrooms.
KILZ Restoration Stain Blocker Ceiling Primer
This ceiling paint and primer is made to prevent stains caused by water or steam. This makes it an excellent option for kitchens, which see lots of steam and heat all day long.
Price: $36.98 (1 gal.)
Pros: Prevents stains from developing on the surface.
Cons: Several coats are needed to cover the area adequately.
BEHR Premium Plus Ceiling Flat Interior Paint
This acrylic-latex paint is mildew-resistant, making it a great choice for bathrooms as well as the rest of your home. It is also a very durable paint with a flat finish.
Price: $23.98 (1 gal.)
Pros: Stain-resistant and durable.
Cons: This paint is thin and may require many coats to complete the job.
Things to Keep in Mind When Painting a Ceiling
You want to keep in mind your needs when you choose your ceiling paint. For example, if you are painting a ceiling in your kitchen or bathroom, water and stain-resistant paint will be your top priority. If you are painting the living room, you may want something durable.
You have to assess your needs for each room and the textures that you are dealing with to choose your paint correctly. For example, if you have a stucco ceiling in one room, you may want something with stronger adhesion qualities. Otherwise, you will work harder to apply it, and it won’t last quite as long.
The Bottom Line
When it comes time to paint your ceilings, take your time. Write down what the challenges of each room are. This will help you narrow down to the paint that is best for you. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get good quality paint; you just have to shop smart.
Research all of your paint options beforehand and always test it out on a small section first to see how it works. Does it cover well? Is it too thin? Work in small sections at a time so you can keep track of where you have painted already. This can save you a lot of time in the long run.
In the end, you have to understand that although the ceiling is the most understated part of your walls, it is not a simple project. It can take just as much time as painting the rest of the room and is crucial to the room’s overall look. Take your time and choose your paint wisely.