Ceiling Painting 101

In our January blog, we discussed “The Forgotten Surface – Ceiling Paint” to highlight how many homeowners often overlook the plane right above their heads. Professional painters know that the ceiling is often the anchor for the whole room and can often show signs of roof leakage or aging paint first. Unfortunately, many homeowners are intimidated by the idea of painting a ceiling and this skip the step entirely. Here is a quick guide to ceiling painting.

The Right Tools

Before you even begin the task of painting your ceilings, make sure you have the right equipment including: extension ladders, rollers, roller extensions, furniture covers, floor coverings, paint brushes, and cloths for drips. (Definitely don’t forget drip cloths as the ceiling tends to have many drops due to the nature of the location.)

Prep, Prep, Prep

The often neglected step during any painting project is the dreaded prep work. Clear out as much of the furniture from the room as possible. Remaining pieces should be moved to the middle and completely covered. Then completely cover the floor. You may want to consider using heavy tarp instead of plastic, as plastic can get slippery underfoot. Wipe down the ceiling as best as you can including clearing any spider webs, dust particles and grime that has built up over the years.

Repair

At this point, many homeowners may have found stains, cracks, or small imperfections in the ceiling. Before you begin the painting process, repair all of these blemishes. This may include investigating the cause of the water stain to get to the root of the problem and solve it.

Primer

Always apply a coat of primer for your ceiling, as it can cover and provide protection from the occasional stain or mark.

Paint

Here is where the fun begins. No matter if you are choosing a traditional white, flat paint, or something a little bolder, like a color on your ceiling, start from one corner and work your way toward the next. Try to keep the lines straight to allow you to know where you have previously painted. Take breaks often as neck strain can be a real pain during ceiling painting. Many experts suggest cutting in at the edges first and then hand rolling. Others use painters tape. Depending on your skill level and ease with a paint brush, you can choose what works best for you.

The ceiling of your home is an additional canvas equal to the square footage of each room you are painting. Don’t overlook this plane. If you are looking to refresh your ceilings and other surfaces, call Jerry Enos Painting at 978-546-6843, or visit our website to speak to our color consultants.

Categorised in: Interior painting, Jerry Enos