How to paint a ceiling - DCO’s patter about splatter (and how to minimise it)
As you can imagine, painting a ceiling is a task that, without care, can prove quite messy thanks to our old friend gravity.
Thanks to the odd crack or unsightly stains, it’s easy for us to neglect our ceilings, but learning how to paint them like the professionals do, means you won’t have to deal with the sight of ugly stains or faded paint for much longer.
Like anything, the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to get it right first time.
If you have never painted a room yourself before, don’t worry – we are going to take you through it all in a simple and easy to follow step by step guide to get you started and on your way to becoming a decorating pro!
If you’re short on time or looking for specific advice, jump to the section you need using the index below!
- What supplies do I need?
- How do I prepare the ceiling and room?
- What paints do I need to use?
- What are the best techniques for painting ceilings
- Statement Ceiling
@chloghome
Time to Gather your Paint and Supplies
Here’s a list of what you’ll need to get started:
Dust Sheets or Carpet Protectors
Prep Polythene Dust Sheet Triple Pack: A must-have for protecting your floors and furniture from paint splatters—because let’s face it, gravity isn’t your friend when painting ceilings! These polythene sheets are lightweight, easy to use, and provide solid protection from mishaps.
ProDec Carpet Protector Self-Adhesive Film: Perfect if you’re working over carpets. This self-adhesive film sticks securely in place, so you won’t need to worry about it slipping or paint seeping through.
Masking Tape
MASQ Sensitive Painters Tape: If your walls are freshly painted, this is your go-to. It’s gentle enough to avoid peeling paint while still ensuring crisp, clean lines when you’re cutting in.
MASQ Superior Painter’s Tape: For walls that have had time to settle, this tape offers great durability and removes easily without leaving behind any sticky residue—just what you need for that flawless finish.
Roller Sleeves and Cages
Axus Silk Touch 9" Roller Sleeve: This one’s a game-changer for ceiling work. It’s designed to minimise splatter (so you’ll spend less time cleaning paint off your face and floor!). The medium pile (M pile) is perfect for a smooth, even application. Pair it with the 9" cage from Axus Blue Series for ultimate control.
Axus Silk Touch 12" Roller Sleeve: Perfect for tackling larger areas, this sleeve offers excellent coverage and saves you time on big projects. Pair it with the Axus Captain Chunk Adjustable Wide Roller Frame 12-18, designed for stability and easy manoeuvrability.
Paint Brushes
ProDec Premier Cutting In Paint Brush: When it comes to cutting in, this brush is your best friend. Its precise design makes tackling those tricky edges between the ceiling and walls a breeze.
Paint Trays and Scuttles
9" Paint Tray: Ideal for smaller projects or if you’re sticking with a standard roller.
Paint Scuttle: Working on a bigger space? This is a lifesaver. With a larger capacity for paint, it’s great for when you’re using a 12" roller and don’t want to keep refilling.
Extension Poles
Super Lock ProDec Extension Pole (2ft-4ft): A reliable, high-quality pole that gives you the reach you need for ceilings. Its durable design means it can handle the pressure of ceiling work without letting you down.
Red Extension Pole (2ft-4ft): If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, this one still delivers great reach and stability for the job.
Pro Tip: Remember to use safety glasses when painting ceilings, so you don’t get paint speckles in your eyes.
Preparation is key
Preparing a room before painting a ceiling is essential for achieving a professional-looking finish and minimising mess. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get your room ready:
1. Clear the Room
Remove Furniture: If possible, move all furniture out of the room. If not, gather furniture in the centre and cover it with a dust sheet or plastic sheeting.
Take Down Decorations: Remove any ceiling fixtures, such as light fittings and take down wall art or curtains that might get in the way.
2. Protect Surfaces
Cover the Floor: Lay down dust sheets or protective plastics like Covermasq Tape And Drape to shield the floor from paint drips and spills.
Mask Edges: Use painter's tape to mask the edges of walls, light fixtures, and any architectural details near the ceiling.
Cover Fixtures: If you can’t remove ceiling fixtures, cover them with plastic bags or wrap them with painter’s tape.
3. Prepare the Ceiling Surface
Inspect the Ceiling: Check for cracks, holes, or peeling paint. Repair any imperfections.
Cracks - remember to rake out cracks to prepare them properly before filling. If these are persistent cracks we would recommend the Toupret Fill-Flex which has small fibres to help prevent the cracks from reopening. Alternatively for small cracks and holes you can use the Toupret Fine Surface Filler and use the Prep Contractor Filling Knife for easy application. Have a look at our Knives, Scrapers & Blades page for other options. For peeling paint as possible, then sand the edges with the Axus Arystox Sanding Pads to create a feathered transition. Once prepped, prime the area with Zinsser Peel Stop to ensure a solid base for your paint.
Clean the Ceiling: Dust and clean the ceiling to remove cobwebs, grease, or dirt. Use a damp cloth or sponge with a sugar soap or pretty boy paint cleaner and conditioner, and let it dry completely.
Sand Rough Areas: Lightly sand the ceiling to ensure a smooth surface and improve paint adhesion, especially if it has been painted previously. You may find a tool like the hand sander helpful here which works with the Mirka oxide sanding paper.
4. Check for Stains or Problem Areas
Address Stains: Use a stain-blocking primer (e.g. Zinsser Coverstain) to cover water stains, smoke marks, or other discolourations before painting.
Fix Damp Issues: If the ceiling has water damage, ensure the source of the leak is fixed before painting. For more tips, check out our blogs on Preventing Mould in Your Home and How to Address Flaking Ceilings for detailed advice on addressing these common concerns.
5. Ensure Proper Lighting and Ventilation
Lighting: Set up bright lighting to help you see the ceiling clearly while painting, especially in areas where natural light is limited.
Ventilation: Open windows or use fans to ensure good airflow.
6. Gather Tools and Materials
Essential Tools: Have all necessary tools on hand which we've listed above.
Choose the Right Paint: Use ceiling-specific paint that resists drips and provides even coverage, we're going to delve into our recommendations below. Click here to jump to that section.
7. Plan Your Approach
Start with Primer: If the ceiling is unpainted/freshly plastered you need to ensure you apply a mist coat before your full coat of paint. To read up on what a mist coat is visit our blog here.
Decide on Painting Order: Paint the ceiling first before tackling walls or woodwork to avoid splatters on freshly painted surfaces.
By taking the time to prepare thoroughly, you’ll save yourself from unnecessary stress and achieve a clean, professional finish. Now lets talk about our favourite paint options when painting your ceiling.
Which paints would we recommend when painting a ceiling?
1. Contract Emulsions.
Key Features of Contract Emulsion Paint
High Opacity
Contract emulsion is formulated to provide excellent coverage, making it ideal for painting over new plaster or unpainted surfaces. Its high opacity helps hide imperfections and creates a uniform base for subsequent coats.
Breathable
One of the standout features of contract emulsion is its breathability. This allows moisture in freshly plastered walls to escape, reducing the risk of peeling, blistering, or damp patches.
Matt Finish
Most contract emulsions have a flat, matt finish, which helps to mask surface imperfections and provides a clean, professional look.
Economical
Contract emulsion is often sold in large quantities at a lower price point compared to premium emulsions, making it cost-effective for contractors working on big projects.
Non-Washable
Unlike durable or washable emulsions, contract emulsion is not designed for areas that require frequent cleaning. It is best suited for spaces that don’t experience heavy wear and tear.
Our best sellers with professional decorators (and the ones we use at home) are the Macpherson Eclipse or the Leyland Super Leytex/Contract Matt. Available in 5L size if just doing one room or in a 10L if you have a larger project to do, these are great value for money. The Macpherson Eclipse can also both be tinted if you're wanting to opt for more of an off-white tone or do some colour drenching.
2. Low light reflecting emulsions
Flat, low light-reflecting paints are specially formulated to provide an ultra-matt finish that minimizes surface imperfections and reduces glare. These paints are particularly popular for ceilings, walls, and other areas where a flawless, smooth appearance is desired. Here’s an overview of these paints, including Anti-Reflex by Tikkurila, Perfect Matt by Johnstone’s, and Extra Matt by Crown, highlighting their key features and ideal uses.
Key Features of Flat, Low Light-Reflecting Paints
Ultra-Matt Finish
These paints deliver an exceptionally flat finish with minimal sheen, making them perfect for spaces where a non-reflective surface is essential (especially long, rectangular shaped ceilings which get a lot of natural light. The ultra-matt finish helps disguise surface imperfections like small cracks, dents, or uneven textures and prevents the appearance of 'flashing' which is where you can see lines from the application of the paint appear across the larger ceiling area.
Light Diffusion
The low light-reflecting properties diffuse natural and artificial light, reducing glare and creating a calm, soft ambiance in the room. This makes them ideal for ceilings and walls in living rooms, bedrooms, and other spaces where a serene atmosphere is desired.
High Coverage
These paints typically offer excellent coverage, requiring fewer coats to achieve a uniform, professional-looking finish.
Professional-Grade Application
Flat paints are often favoured by professionals for their ability to deliver seamless, streak-free results, especially in large or featureless areas.
As I mentioned, our most popular sellers are the Tikkurila Anti Reflex 2, Johnstone's Trade Perfect Matt and Crown Trade Extramatt. The Tikkurila and Johnstone's products can also both be tinted if you're wanting to opt for more of an off-white tone or do some colour drenching.
@fundamentallyagoodhome
Painting a ceiling can be challenging, but with the right techniques, you can avoid roller marks and achieve a smooth, professional finish. Here are some top tips to help you get it right:
1. Choose the Right Tools
Use a High-Quality Roller: Opt for a roller with a medium nap (10-12mm) for smooth ceilings or a longer nap (15-20mm) if you're painting a textured surface like artex. High-quality rollers hold more paint and distribute it evenly. As we've mentioned before we're a big fan of the Silk Touch Rollers by Axus for a high quality and smooth finish that also hold plenty of paint without splattering you too much as you apply it!
Invest in an Extension Pole: An extension pole gives you better control and reduces strain, allowing for consistent pressure across the ceiling. As we mentioned at the start of this blog, the carbon fibre extension pole from ProDec is a fantastic quality for the price and will work with you on a challenging project like a ceiling.
2. Select the Right Paint
Use Ceiling-Specific Paint: We've just covered our favourite paints to use above but just to reiterate: these paints are designed to minimise drips and roller marks while providing a flat, even finish.
Don’t Overload the Roller: Too much paint can lead to uneven application and dripping. Its tempting as you think you'll get the job done quicker with thick coats but you'll end up with an uneven finish and also likely a lot of paint on your head/all over the floor! Load the roller evenly and roll off excess paint on the tray.
3. Work in Sections
Divide the Ceiling Mentally: Break the ceiling into manageable sections of about 1m² (3ft²) and work on one section at a time.
Maintain a Wet Edge: Always overlap the edges of freshly painted areas with the next section to prevent visible lines or roller marks.
4. Use the Right Technique
Roll in One Direction: Start by rolling in the same direction (e.g., away from the light source) to apply paint evenly. For the second coat, roll perpendicular to the first to ensure full coverage.
Apply Consistent Pressure: Keep steady pressure on the roller to avoid uneven patches or streaks.
Roll Slowly: Avoid rushing, as moving too quickly can create splatters and uneven coverage.
5. Feather the Edges
Lighten Pressure at the Edges: When finishing a stroke, reduce pressure slightly to feather the edges and blend them seamlessly into the next section.
Avoid Starting or Stopping in the Middle: Always begin and end strokes near the edges of the ceiling.
6. Keep the Roller Loaded
Reload Frequently: A roller low on paint can leave streaks or dry patches. Regularly reload the roller with paint to maintain consistent coverage.
Don’t Overwork the Paint: Avoid going back over areas that are starting to dry, as this can pull up paint and leave marks.
7. Control the Lighting
Use Natural Light: Paint during daylight hours or set up strong, even lighting to spot roller marks as you go.
Check from Different Angles: Periodically step back and look at the ceiling from various angles to catch imperfections early.
8. Apply Multiple Thin Coats
Two Thin Coats Are Better: One thick coat can lead to roller marks and drips. Apply two thin coats for a smoother, more professional finish.
Allow Proper Drying Time: Let the first coat dry fully before applying the second to avoid dragging or uneven texture.
9. Edge the Ceiling First
Cut in with a Brush: Use a high-quality angled brush to paint the edges of the ceiling before rolling. Blend the edges into the main area for a seamless transition. If you're nervous about getting clean, straight lines, use painters masking tape to create a crisp edge. If your walls are freshly painted opt for the sensitive masq tape, otherwise go for the gold masq tape.
10. Clean and Maintain Your Tools
Keep the Roller Clean: If the roller becomes clogged or matted, it can leave marks. Clean or replace it if needed during the project. For more tips read my blog on how to clean your roller here.
Work Efficiently: Avoid taking long breaks mid-project, as partially dried paint can create visible lines when you resume.
By following these tips, you can avoid roller marks and achieve a flawless finish on your ceiling. A little patience and attention to detail go a long way toward creating a beautifully painted room!
Statement Ceilings
Seeing your ceiling as the "fifth wall" and giving it the same design consideration as the other walls in your room can transform your space, creating a more cohesive, dynamic, or dramatic look. Whether you choose to colour drench the ceiling with the same shade as the walls or make it a standout feature with a contrasting colour, here are the key benefits of this approach:
1. Creates a Cohesive and Immersive Space
Colour Drenching: Painting the ceiling the same colour as the walls (or even extending the colour to the trim and doors) creates a unified, enveloping effect. This technique works particularly well in smaller rooms, as it eliminates visual breaks and makes the space feel seamless and cocoon-like.
Harmonious Design: Using the same shade throughout ensures a balanced and intentional design that feels sophisticated and modern.
2. Adds Visual Interest
Standout Feature: A painted ceiling in a contrasting or bold colour can become a focal point, drawing the eye upward and adding a touch of drama to the room.
Design Statement: Whether it’s a deep navy, a soft blush, or even a metallic finish, a standout ceiling can elevate the room’s aesthetic, making it memorable and unique.
3. Enhances Mood and Atmosphere
Cosy and Intimate: Darker ceiling colours, when paired with matching walls, create a snug, intimate environment—perfect for bedrooms, libraries, or dining rooms.
Light and Airy: Soft pastel or pale tones on the ceiling can make a space feel more open and serene, ideal for living rooms or bathrooms.
Playful and Creative: Bright or unexpected ceiling colours can bring energy and personality to children’s rooms, home offices, or creative spaces.
4. Balances Room Proportions
Lower Ceilings: Painting the ceiling the same colour as the walls can blur the edges, making the ceiling feel higher and the room more spacious.
High Ceilings: A darker or contrasting ceiling colour can visually "lower" the height, making large rooms feel more grounded and cosy.
5. Hides Imperfections
A painted ceiling can mask surface flaws, especially when using ultra-matt, low-sheen paints that diffuse light and reduce the visibility of imperfections.
For older homes with uneven ceilings, a darker or textured paint can camouflage irregularities while adding depth.
6. Encourages Creativity and Personalization
Patterns and Murals: The ceiling can be a canvas for creative expression, such as geometric patterns, stripes, or even a mural for a truly unique touch.
Two-Tone Designs: Pairing a bold ceiling colour with neutral walls or vice versa allows you to experiment with colour without overwhelming the space.
7. Complements Room Orientation and Lighting
North-Facing Rooms: Warm-toned ceilings can counteract the cooler light in north-facing spaces, creating a cosier feel.
South-Facing Rooms: Cooler ceiling colours can balance the warmth of abundant natural light, adding freshness and calmness.
Lighting Fixtures: A painted ceiling can enhance the impact of pendant lights, chandeliers, or recessed lighting, creating a cohesive design story.
@this_slice_of_paradise
There you have it!
With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, achieving a flawless finish is easier than you think. By using high-quality ceiling paint, such as flat, low-sheen options like Tikkurila Anti-Reflex, Johnstone's Perfect Matt, or Crown Extra Matt, you can ensure a smooth, professional result that enhances your space.
Remember, proper preparation is key—clean and repair the surface, protect your room, and mist coat if necessary. When it’s time to apply the paint, work in sections, maintain a wet edge, and avoid overloading your roller to minimise roller marks. These steps will help you achieve a beautifully painted ceiling that complements your walls and creates a polished, cohesive look.
Whether you're tackling a plain white ceiling or experimenting with colour, understanding how to paint a ceiling effectively will save time and effort while delivering stunning results. So, grab your roller and ceiling paint, and let your creativity take centre stage—because your ceiling deserves just as much attention as the rest of your room.
Helen x
