How to Paint Ceiling
Learn how to paint ceiling with our detailed step-by-step guide. Follow our easy instructions to get it done right.
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0 of 6 steps completedStep-by-Step Instructions
1 Step 1: Prepare and Cover Room
Step 1: Prepare and Cover Room
Remove furniture or cover with plastic, protect floors with drop cloths.
Plastic Furniture Covers
Disposable plastic for protecting furniture (roll)
2 Step 2: Repair Ceiling Imperfections
Step 2: Repair Ceiling Imperfections
Fill cracks and holes with spackle, sand smooth when dry.
Ceiling Patch Compound
Lightweight compound for ceiling repairs (quart)
3 Step 3: Prime Ceiling if Needed
Step 3: Prime Ceiling if Needed
Prime water stains, repairs, or when changing from dark to light color.
Ceiling Paint Primer
Primer for ceilings with stain-blocking (gallon)
4 Step 4: Cut In Edges
Step 4: Cut In Edges
Use angled brush to paint 2-3 inch border around ceiling edge where it meets walls.
Angled Ceiling Brush
Brush for cutting in ceiling edges (2.5-inch)
5 Step 5: Roll Ceiling Paint
Step 5: Roll Ceiling Paint
Use extension pole and thick-nap roller, work in 3x3 sections, overlap wet edges.
Ceiling Paint
Flat white ceiling paint (1 gallon)
Extension Pole
Pole for painting ceilings from floor (4-8 feet)
Thick Nap Roller
Roller cover for textured ceilings (3/4-inch nap)
6 Step 6: Apply Second Coat
Step 6: Apply Second Coat
Let first coat dry completely, apply second coat for even coverage and hiding.