What Is the Easiest Way to Paint a Ceiling?

Painting the ceiling is usually the first step in repainting a room. While it may sound complicated, it can actually be a relatively simple process for handy homeowners. Painters often have their own “best methods” to paint the ceiling quickly. Here are our top tips on how to paint the ceiling perfectly on the first try.

Prepping the room

Before the ceiling can receive a fresh coat of paint, the entire room needs to be prepared. This is typically the most difficult part of the process. The curtains, fixtures, and lighter furniture will need to be removed from the room. If heavier furniture isn’t easily moved, it’s best to move them to the center of the room and leave plenty of space next to the walls for ease of access. Use good dust sheets to protect the remaining furniture and floors from dripping paint.

Inspect the ceiling for damage, as it will need to be repaired before painting. The smoother the surface is, the easier it will be to paint the ceiling. Wash down the ceiling with soapy water to remove dirt and debris and make the paint adhere more easily.

We recommend using paint with a primer included in the formula. Applying an excellent latex-based primer is also another option, as it will allow the color to provide a great finish in a single coat afterward.

Cutting in vs. painter’s tape

There’s some debate as to whether painter’s tape provides better results than cutting in the corners. Cutting in the corners requires less time and money since there’s no need to go around the entire room putting up tape, and a good brush will last through multiple uses. Tape may cause additional damage when removed, as it can pull off loose paint or plaster from the walls and is a single-use item.

While cutting in the edges, hold the brush at an angle and make sure to reach the border between the wall and ceiling. After that, use broader strokes to smooth the paint over. When painting with a roller, cutting in is necessary to cover the edges the roller can’t reach. Drips can be wiped away with a clean damp cloth.

Painting with a roller

Depending on the type of paint used, there may be a need for two or more coats of paint. Paint in sections, but don’t apply paint in the same direction every time, as perfectly straight rolls might show overlap marks.

Allow the first coat of paint to dry completely before starting a second coat. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the drying time.

Cleanup

Rollers and brushes will need to be cleaned while the paint on them is still wet. Use soap and water to rinse them out, and use a painter’s comb or a notch for rollers to wring the last drops of paint out of them.

After you’re done, remove the painter’s tape, clean up any drips, and reinstall all the fixtures and furniture.

If you don’t want the hassle of painting a ceiling, contact a professional house painting service. They will do all the necessary preparation, painting, and clean up afterward for a spotless finish.