Can you Use Ceiling Paint on Walls? (Here’s How) – Complete Guide
Ceiling paint and wall paint are designed to cover a surface and protect it from the elements. But can you use ceiling paint on walls? Ceiling paint is typically made with a thicker consistency than wall paint, making it less likely to drip or run down walls. Ceiling paint also contains additives that make it resistant to staining and fading. So, can you use ceiling paint on the walls?
The answer, of course, is yes. Ceiling paint is designed to withstand high-traffic areas, making it perfect for walls. Not only will it save you time and money, but it’ll also give your walls a beautiful finish.
Ready to try it out for yourself? Here are some reasons why ceiling paint is the best choice for your next painting project.
Table of Contents
Should You Use Ceiling Paint On Walls?
You’ll get better coverage. Wall paint covers the wall’s surface, but ceiling paint usually covers an area four to five times larger. This means less time painting and more time enjoying your new color scheme!
Ceiling paint resists moisture. If you or someone in your home is prone to splattering, a damp cloth will clean your walls. That means no more scrubbing!
It’s guaranteed to last for years. Ceiling paint is made with stronger pigments formulated specifically for ceilings and high-traffic areas. It’s highly resistant to fading, making it perfect for rooms that get a lot of sunlight or have frequent exposure to water damage. Use ceiling paint on walls, and you’ll never have to paint again.
But what about the smell?
Good news! Ceiling paint is specially formulated with advanced odor-reducing technology that will make your space feel fresh in no time. And if the odor is too much for you, try using a heavy-duty exhaust fan or opening doors and windows to ventilate the room. You can also mix in a few drops of essential oil if you need more freshness.
Ceiling Paint vs. Wall Paint: Key Differences
Ceiling and Wall Paint: What’s the Difference?
Ceiling Paint
Wall Paint
Viscosity
High
Low
Coverage
High, a single layer is often plenty
Low, 2-3 coats needed
Finish
Flat sheen
Eggshell, pearl, or satin
Colors
Limited, often white
Lots of options
Durability
Highly durable
Semi and high gloss wall paints are less durable
Price
Cheap
Average
When to Use Ceiling Paint on Walls
Why wouldn’t you use ceiling paint on walls with all of these benefits? It’s versatile affordable, and it works with any color scheme.
For most home interior projects, like painting a bedroom or bathroom, ceiling paint is just as good – if not better – than wall paint. If you’re more comfortable working with wall paint because of the thicker consistency, you can just apply it to your walls and paint your ceilings with ceiling paint.
Larger projects, like repainting an entire exterior or interior of a house, are more difficult to complete with ceiling paint. Ceiling paint usually comes in smaller 5-gallon buckets. Working with exterior wall space requires much larger quantities of paint. However, ceiling paint is more than suitable for this task if you need to paint the inside of your house’s exterior walls (like for a porch or patio).
Can You Use Ceiling Paint as a Primer?
Can you prime a wall with ceiling paint? No, it will not work as a primer. When painting your walls, use an oil-based primer specifically made for walls for best results. If you’re looking for an alternative to priming, try using water-based paint and adding some interior white latex to keep the surface smooth and easy to paint. Or you can use a 10% to 20% solution of chlorine bleach in the water to help the walls breathe and create a smooth surface for your primer.
Is Flat White Paint the Same as Ceiling Paint?
No, flat white paint is usually a paint and primer combination. It’s formulated for use on ceilings, but it’s not the same as a ceiling paint. For best results when painting your walls, use a professional-grade oil-based primer specifically made for walls. If you’re looking for an alternative to priming, try using water-based paint and adding some interior white latex to keep the surface smooth and easy to paint. Or you can use a 10% to 20% solution of chlorine bleach in the water to help the walls breathe and create a smooth surface for your primer.
As always, when in doubt, consult your local hardware store! They’ll be able to tell you which type of paint they recommend for your project. Just give them the dimensions and any special instructions, and they’ll be able to help you choose the best product for your space.
Can You Use Wall Paint on Ceilings?
You can use wall paint on ceilings. However, It can be a little messy compared to using ceiling paint on ceilings.
The thicker consistency of wall paint makes it more likely to drip or run. The additives in ceiling paint help reduce the likelihood of staining and fading, so using a different product on your walls is not ideal.
Ceiling paint contains stronger pigments that resist moisture and fading, so you won’t get the same quality finish with wall paint.
Can I Mix Ceiling Paint With Wall Paint?
You can mix ceiling paint with wall paint, but it’s not recommended.
If you need to repaint a wall that has already been painted with ceiling paint, all you have to do is apply the wall color over the top and allow it to dry completely before doing any touch-ups. If you try and mix the two paints, the consistency will be too thick.
How to Use Ceiling Paint on Walls
Step 1: Remove everything from the walls.
Before you can paint your walls, you have to remove any furniture or decor to not get covered in paint.
Step 2: Tape off woodwork and trim with painter’s tape.
If you want perfectly straight lines, use a pencil to create a guide before taping off your trim, molding, or baseboards.
Step 3: Put on your respirator mask.
Paint is full of chemicals that are not safe to breathe in, so put on a respirator mask for this step.
Step 4: Use an extension pole with a roller to paint ceilings and the tops of walls.
A standard ladder may be too short of reaching the top of your walls, so use an extendable pole instead. The extension pole should have special release buttons that easily let go when it’s time to move up or down the ladder. The roller or brush will give you even coverage without having to work too hard.
Step 5: Paint lower sections with a paint sprayer.
If you don’t want to get paint all over your hands, you can use a paint sprayer to cover the lower panels of your walls. Professional-grade paint sprayers are more likely to give better results, but you can also buy handheld models that will do the trick just fine. Set up fans in front of where you’re working, and remember to put on your breathing mask before you start painting.
Step 6: Paint over with wall paint.
After you’ve finished all your taping and priming, it’s time for some good old-fashioned wall paint! The oil-based primer should have given enough time for your wall or ceiling colors to dry completely, so now it’s smooth sailing as long as you apply several thin coats instead of one thick coat. Remember to take breaks now and again, and always follow the mixing instructions on your paint.
Can you use Ceiling Paint Windows?
Yes, ceiling paint can be used on windows. Make sure you are using a flat finish because it will ensure that you get a smooth final result.
Can You Use Ceiling Paint on Doors?
Yes, you can use ceiling paint on doors. Make sure to cover any shelves with a blue tarp before painting, though.
Best Paint for Walls and Ceilings
The best paint for walls and ceilings should be easy to use, efficient, and effective. Oil-based paints tend to last longer than latex ones because they stick better, and the thicker consistency makes them harder to run or drip. Latex paints are water-based, so they will dry faster, but oil-based paints also come with an odor-free formula that is more environmentally friendly.
Here are some of the paint for walls and ceilings:
Rust-Oleum Chalked Ultra Matte Paint has zero VOC, zero odor paint, and primer in one. It can cover 450 sq. ft., dries fast for quick re-coat times, and resists scuffing, peeling, and fading for long-lasting results.
Pros
Thanks to its thick consistency, this paint is super affordable, easy to find, and covers in just one coat.
Cons
There are several complaints about the primer being too thin and resulting in patchy coverage, but most reviews are positive.
KILZ Color-Change Stain blocking Interior Ceiling Paint is a high hiding, low odor paint. It can cover up to 1000 sq. ft., resists peeling, and fading, and works on both flat and glossy surfaces for an all-in-one solution.
This paint is great for covering up smoke, pet, and even mold smells and has a long-lasting effect that blocks stains from re-appearing. This paint uses advanced technology to detect and block the tannin found in most stains. The paint is also latex-based, which means you can use it on any interior surface and doors and trim (but not cabinets).
Cons
Many reviews say it smells like paint inside the house, even when applied outside with high ventilation.
Conclusion
Yes, you can paint. It should be an easy and seamless process, whether you’re priming walls before painting or using ceiling paint to create special effects. Using the right tools for the job will ensure that your project goes smoothly, leaving both you and your wallet happy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use ceiling paint on other surfaces?
Yes, you can paint ceilings on doors, furniture, toys, dressers, mirrors, and even floors (for a temporary effect). Oil-based paints are best if you want to use them on walls, though.
Can I use ceiling paint on baseboards?
Yes, you can paint over baseboards with ceiling paint. Make sure to use the right brush for this type of project, though, or you will end up with some problems down the road.
Can I use ceiling paint on bathroom walls?
Yes, you can paint bathroom walls with ceiling paint. Make sure to use the right brush for this type of project, though, or you will end up with some problems down the road.
Can I use ceiling paint removers?
No, don’t try using a remover on any water-based paints. This could cause bubbles in the paint and remove some of the primer (which would make any bumps you painted over pop back up).
Can I use ceiling paint on kitchen cabinets?
Yes, you can use ceiling paint on kitchen cabinets. Make sure to cover any shelves with a blue tarp before painting, though.
Can I use ceiling paint for a chalkboard effect?
Yes, you can paint a ceiling with chalkboard paint as long as it’s smooth and clean. Make sure to use the right brush for this type of project, though, or you will end up with some problems down the road.
What is the best way to remove ceiling paint?
Using water-based paints on ceilings isn’t too problematic because they dry quickly. When you’re done using the paint, carefully remove it with warm water and soap, followed by a clean damp cloth.
If your ceiling is still sticky afterward, you can try adding rubbing alcohol to the mixture of water and soap to achieve better results. If that doesn’t work, you might have to use something stronger like white vinegar or mineral spirits.
Can you use ceiling paint with murals?
Yes, you can use ceiling paint to enhance murals. Make sure to use the right brush for this type of project, though, or you will end up with some problems down the road.
Can I use ceiling paint on cabinets?
You can use ceiling paint on cabinets. Make sure to cover any shelves with a blue tarp before painting, though.
Can I use ceiling paint for wall repairs?
Yes, you can use ceiling paint to repair walls and ceilings; just make sure the surface is clean and dry before applying it. You can also use this versatile paint under stencils to make designs and even on walls.
