How to Paint a Ceiling | Expert Painting Advice | Behr

How to Paint a Ceiling

Don't forget about the "fifth" wall! Depending on the color you apply to your ceiling, you can convey a cozy, warm ambience or create an aura of expansiveness, and add visual interest to your home.

For Best Results:

Refer to our how-to for expert advice and techniques on painting your ceiling.

The ceiling should be the first surface you paint in your room.

Suggested Tools & Supplies
  • Brush (2"-2½")

  • Extension Pole

  • Vinyl Gloves

  • Ladder

  • Paint Can Opener

  • Paint Tray

  • Paint Tray Liner

  • Protective Apparel

  • Rags

  • Roller Cover and Frame

  • Sandpaper (150-220 Grit)

  • Stir Stick

  • Drop Cloths

  • Step 1

    Grab your tools.

  • Step 2

    Using your painter’s tape, begin by taping off the places where the ceiling and the wall meet.

  • Step 3

    Remove vents with a screwdriver.

  • Step 4

    Use a stain-blocking primer to prep your wall and cover any stains.

  • Step 5

    Dip your brush in and pat the side to remove excess paint.

  • Step 6

    Cut in from walls by painting in and around the tape.

  • Step 7

    Grab your roller and attach the extension pole before fully saturating your roller with paint.

  • Step 8

    Start painting away from one corner in as straight of a line as you can until the ceiling is completely covered in paint.

    TIP: If a second coat is needed then apply paint in a perpendicular direction.

  • Step 9

    Remove tape while paint is still wet.

  • Step 10

    Replace ceiling vents.

  • Step 11

    Wash your tools with warm soapy water.

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What Product Do I Need?
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8 Oz. Sample
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The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces.
Required product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
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The following product(s) is required to properly prep uncoated and previously coated concrete surfaces. Only available in store at Home Depot.
Required 3rd party product
BEHR PREMIUM ALL-IN-ONE WOOD CCCC
The 9 in. x 1/4 in. Polyester Adhesive Roller Cover has a hard texture, making it ideal for applying all types of adhesives to smooth surfaces. It can be used for stippling and applying sand paints.
The following product(s) is recommended when a topcoat clear finish is desired.
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