Choosing the right ceiling paint can transform the look and feel of a room. With so many options on the market, it can be tricky to know where to start. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting ceiling paint. Follow our tips and you’ll end up with a ceiling paint that meets your needs and enhances your space.
Paint Finish
The paint finish refers to the amount of gloss or sheen the dried paint will have. For ceilings, a flat or matte finish is usually best as it helps hide imperfections and absorbs light rather than reflecting it.
Some key things to know about ceiling paint finishes:
- Flat/Matte – This non-reflective finish works well for hiding flaws. It’s ideal for low to medium traffic areas like ceilings.
- Eggshell – With a soft, velvety appearance, eggshell is slightly more reflective than flat. It also stands up well to washing.
- Satin – A smooth finish with a subtle luster, satin works well for trim and woodwork. It’s easy to clean.
- Semi-Gloss – With moderate shine, semi-gloss is durable and ideal for areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
- Gloss – The highest shine option, gloss is very reflective and resilient. It’s best for high-traffic spaces that require frequent cleaning.
For most ceilings, flat or matte paint is the best choice as it helps hide imperfections in the surface above.
Paint Quality
Investing in quality ceiling paint ensures an even finish and lasting results. Here’s what to look for:
- Hiding power – Quality ceiling paint should cover previous colors and stains in one or two coats.
- Durability – It should stand up to some washing and scrubbing for occasional dirt marks.
- Resistance – Good ceiling paint resists yellowing over time and retains its original color.
- Uniform finish – It should dry to an even, consistent matte look without shiny spots.
- Brand reputation – Trusted brands like Benjamin Moore, Sherwin-Williams, and Behr offer reliability.
Premium ceiling paints may cost a little more upfront but deliver excellent hide and longevity. Cheaper paints can take more coats to get coverage.
Paint Sheen Level
Flat paints come in different sheen levels, providing more options for the right finish:
- Dead flat – This totally non-reflective finish is excellent for masking flaws.
- Flat – With a velvet-like appearance, flat sheen is common for ceilings.
- Matte – Slightly more sheen than flat, matte works well for low to medium traffic spaces.
- Eggshell – Offering a soft glow, eggshell provides a subtle sheen good for bedrooms and hallways.
The deader the sheen, the better a paint finish will hide imperfections like cracks or textures. A dead flat is ideal if you have ceiling flaws to conceal.
Coverage Ability
Don’t skimp on coats with ceiling paint. Thorough coverage is important for appearance and performance:
- For average ceilings, two coats are usually sufficient for full coverage.
- Three coats may be needed for staining or discoloration from smoke or water leaks.
- Primer helps seal stains and provides better adhesion for the ceiling paint.
- High-hide paint formulas can cover in one coat.
Take time to prep ceiling flaws for better coverage. Sand cracked paint and fill gouges with spackle. Proper prep leads to better results.
Mold and Mildew Resistance
Bathrooms and kitchens benefit from mold-resistant ceiling paints. Look for the following properties:
- Antimicrobial additives – Ingredients inhibit mold, mildew, and bacteria growth.
- Moisture resistance – Paint won’t easily absorb moisture leading to mildew.
- Primer included – Primer seals stains and creates a moisture barrier.
- Washable finish – A durable sheen allows occasional scrubbing to remove mold.
Mold-resistant ceiling paint is ideal for humid areas prone to moisture accumulation. Proper ventilation is also key to deter mold growth.
VOC Content
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) are emissions that lower indoor air quality. For healthy homes, choose low- or no-VOC paint:
- No VOCs – This paint contains zero VOCs for the best indoor air.
- Low VOCs – These products emit minimal emissions.
- High VOCs – Oil-based paints and some latex paints have higher VOCs.
- Green certification – Look for eco-labels like GreenGuard or Green Seal.
Low-VOC and no-VOC ceiling paints are ideal for bedrooms, nurseries, and households with allergies or asthma.
Color Options
While white is popular for ceilings, other hues can also work well:
- Whites like Swiss Coffee or Dove White provide a clean, bright look.
- Very light grays, taupes, and ivories offer soft elegance.
- Bold ceiling colors like navy blue make a dramatic style statement.
- Neutral, airy tints create the illusion of higher ceilings.
Keep in mind lighting when selecting ceiling color. Darker shades can feel oppressive if natural light is limited.
Acoustical Properties
Look for acoustic or sound-absorbing paint if reducing noise is a priority:
- Textured coatings help absorb sound waves and echo.
- Some paint brands add sound-dampening fillers.
- Sealers ensure paint adheres properly to acoustic tile or panels.
- Building additional sound barriers along with paint boosts effectiveness.
Acoustical paint reduces excessive noise in spaces like offices, studios, and theaters. Professional installation is ideal for best sound absorption.
FAQs
How much ceiling paint do I need?
Measure the length and width of the ceiling to find the square footage. Most paint coverage is 350-450 sq ft per gallon. Add an extra gallon for uneven or textured surfaces requiring more paint.
Should I use flat or eggshell paint on ceilings?
Flat paint is preferred for ceilings as it hides flaws well and doesn’t reflect light. Eggshell offers a bit more durability and sheen if you’ll need to spot clean occasionally.
Can I paint over old popcorn ceiling texture?
Yes, popcorn ceiling texture can be painted but will require 3-4 coats of paint to fully cover the textured surface. Scrape off any loose texture before painting.
What sheen is ceiling paint?
Ceiling paints have a flat sheen, which is a non-reflective matte finish that helps hide imperfections. Some brands offer dead flat and matte which are variants of flat with different sheen levels.
Should I use primer before painting my ceiling?
Primer helps seal stains, provides better adhesion, and improves paint coverage. It’s recommended for discolored or damaged ceilings but may not be necessary for new, unfinished drywall.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect ceiling paint involves considering factors like sheen, quality, coverage, and features like mold resistance. Flat finishes are ideal for hiding flaws, while high-quality paint ensures uniform coverage and lasting results. For high-moisture areas, mold-resistant formulas are best. And don’t forget–proper prep and adequate coats lead to beautiful, enduring results. With this ceiling paint buying guide’s tips in mind, you’ll be equipped to pick the ideal ceiling paint for your needs and space.