How to paint ceilings
Your ceilings can sometimes be overlooked, but with a refreshing colour and a flawless finish you’ll give people a reason to look up and admire your handy work.
Learn how to paint ceilings
Instructions
All good projects begin with good preparation. So clear your area, lay down a drop sheet, then grab yourself a ladder, brush, tape, roller and extension pole and tray.
Begin by cleaning your ceiling. Remove cobwebs with a clean broom and wash the area with Selleys Original Sugar Soap. It’s true, no one enjoys cleaning but missing this step could lead to trouble later on.
Tape around cornices, edges and any down lights.
Just like a vertical wall, begin by cutting-in where the roller won’t reach. Using a brush, paint around down lights and edges to create a border.
Once you’ve loaded your roller evenly, begin in one corner and move fluidly in a parallel motion. For best results, work in 1 metre sections painting across and then down. Roll as far into the previously brushed sections as possible.
Now that you’ve finished a large section of your ceiling, and while it’s still damp, you can begin laying-off the paint. This is a crucial step in achieving a smooth and consistent finish. Using an unloaded roller begin in the top left corner of your ceiling and gently pull towards you in a straight line with no pressure. A lightness of touch will prevent new brush strokes from forming. Repeat this action and slightly overlap your last movement so your roller rubs away the line created by the previous stroke.
If your ceiling requires two coats, simply wait 2 hours for your first coat to dry then begin at step 4 and re-cut your ceiling.
And you’re done! Simply clean up using responsible paint disposal methods and enjoy your beautiful new walls.
Interior how to guides
Prepare interior surfaces
Nothing beats a great paint job, especially one you’ve done yourself. Give yourself the best chance at success by following these instructions.
How to paint walls
The walls of your home colour your world. They are what set the mood for everyday life. So, the way you apply your paint can be just as important as the colour itself.
How to use a paint roller
To use a roller you'll need a tray, frame, roller cover and possibly an extension pole. Make sure you have the right roller for the job.
Help & Advice
Make confident decisions about your project needs with support from our wide network of painters or speak to one of our Help & Advice consultants now.
Help & Advice
Want to change but don’t know where to start? Dulux Help & Advice are expert consultants who can help you with colour advice, product selection and application, everything you need for your next paint project.
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