What’s the longest time since you last painted your ceilings. If it has been over 10 years, you should look up. A fourth wall will likely be visible whose paint is dulled from time, sun and frequent dust exposure. This DIY project starts with choosing the right paint, including determining what sheen for ceiling paint.
Ceiling Paint is it the same as other paint?
Ceiling paint is not the same as regular wall paint. Ceiling paint can be used on ceilings with regular paint, but it is thinner than ceiling paint. Ceiling paint is thicker, and it’s designed to hold the paint in place while drying. This means that there are fewer drips and runs. Ceiling paints can be made to conceal defects, spots and stains. This will give you a clean, beautiful finish.
How do I know what sheen to use for ceiling paint?
What sheen should you use to paint ceilings? Flat (a.k.a. matte finish). It will not reflect light as well as shinier paint, which means that it is better at concealing defects.
A textured paint is a good choice if you are looking to soundproof a room such as a children’s playroom. These paints are ready-to-use and come pre-mixed. Be aware that if your ceiling has a texture (e.g. a popcorn ceiling), you shouldn’t add more texture to it. Flat ceiling paint is better than textured paint.
Designers may use high-gloss finishes on ceilings and walls in certain installations to give them a high-style appearance. Because it reflects every imperfection, high-gloss paint requires a smooth surface. If you are going to attempt this, ensure that your drywall ceilings and walls have been properly prepared.
Does it matter what my ceiling is made of?
It is important to understand the sheen you should use for ceiling paint. Ceiling paint might not be the best depending on what your ceiling material is.
Acoustic tile– Use latex paint to create drop ceilings. Regular ceiling paint can reduce the tile’s inherent sound-dampening capabilities.
Drywall If your ceiling has smooth drywall, you can use most latex paints. You should look for thicker paints that are made to stick. This will minimize drips. Because it is smoother and less likely to have defects, this ceiling is best for high-gloss installations.
Masonry plaster and stucco Cast finishes such as these are often very smooth. It can be difficult for thicker paints to stick. These paints can penetrate the surface more effectively than thicker latex paints.
Textured ceilings– Textured drywall ceilings can be made in many forms, including popcorn, spray sand and comb. There’s even a technique called stompbrush, which is an older technique that involves pressing a brush into drywall mud, and then pulling it down sharply to create texture. These ceilings may require a flat latex, as it may not be possible to spray or roll the paint evenly.
Wood ceilings– Sand ceilings made of wood and prime them before painting. Otherwise, the paint can absorb into the ceilings. This could cause damage to the wood. To cover the wood completely, it may take 2 coats of primer. If your wood has been stained, oil-based paint is required, not latex.