Painting a Ceiling

If you are a homeowner or a renter you probably have to paint an apartment once in a while to prep it for the next tenant. One of the hardest parts of the job is the ceiling, which is why it’s often neglected with precedence given to the walls and trim.

True, ceilings are not fun to work but aren’t impossible either. They just take extra patience and the will to use muscles not usually part of the mix.

One of the most important things you’ll need is a roller with an extension handle and if possible a cover. This will aid with the annoyance of having to constantly hold your arms upward. The type of roller you purchase will also depend on if the ceiling is textured or not.

Other items you’ll need include a 2 and half to three inch paintbrush, step ladder, primer, paint, paint tray, and utility knife.  

Steps:

1. Remove all furniture, light fixtures, curtains, and anything from the room that may have the potential to get ruined by paint.

1. Cover the floor with drop cloths.

1. Make sure the room is well ventilated.

1. If you are planning to paint the rest of the room don’t worry about the walls. If you are not planning to paint the walls after the ceiling use painters tape to protect the edges where the ceiling meets the wall. Also, tape large swaths of plastic to the top of the walls letting it hang down over them in order to protect from droplets.

1. Prime the ceiling and let it dry.

1. Starting from one corner paint a cut-in line (about 4 inches in width) along the perimeter where the ceiling meets the wall. Use as little paint as possible.

1. With the roller extended apply paint in sections trying to maintain a wet edge by over lapping around six inches. Don’t apply too much pressure to the roller as it may squeeze out the paint.

1. Allow to dry and add a second coat.