Guide to the Best Ceiling Paint

For best results on a popcorn ceiling, use a premium-quality flat paint like Benjamin Moore Waterborne Ceiling Paint that will cover surface imperfections with a thick coating. Note that any textured ceiling will add "hidden square feet," meaning it will take more paint to fully cover the surface than if it were smooth.

It’s also crucial to apply a sealer coat before painting over unpainted popcorn ceilings. If you try to paint an unfinished popcorn ceiling with a regular, water-based ceiling paint, it will absorb into the textured coating, become soft, and probably crumble or peel off in a couple of minutes. When painting an unsealed popcorn ceiling, first use a problem surface sealer like Zinsser Allprime Problem Surface Primer or Zinsser® Gardz® Problem Surface Sealer.

What to Look for in a Quality Ceiling Paint

Bedroom painted with Benjamin Moore Waterborne Ceiling Paint, Ultra Flat, in Steam AF-15

Whether you opt for a high-quality interior paint product or a specialty ceiling paint, these are a few key features to look for. And remember — the grade of the paint will have the most significant impact on the results. A premium paint product will hide and cover better than a lower-quality interior paint regardless of whether it is a multipurpose interior paint or specialty ceiling paint.

Low-Spatter

Premium paint products, and particularly ceiling paint products, are formulated to create less spatter during the paint job. But be careful not to over-saturate the roller – too much paint causes drips and ceiling paint is already a thick coating that achieves significant coverage per square foot.

Also make sure you don’t roll too quickly. Slow and steady will get you the best coverage and the least spatter. Let the roller and paint do the work. You should not be sweating while rolling a ceiling!

Great Coverage

It’s important for a ceiling paint to cover well in a minimal number of coats — for the sake of time and uniformity. BM 508 (Waterborne Ceiling Paint), for example, is a thick ceiling paint that only needs 1-2 coats on prepped ceilings. It also gets 400-450 sq. feet per gallon on smooth surfaces. (Don’t forget that textured ceilings add “hidden” square footage.)

Smooth Application

A key consideration for ceiling paint is whether it will be easy to apply and touch up without showing lap marks. A premium product like Benjamin Moore Waterborne Ceiling Paint lays out smoothly, making it easy for both homeowners and pros to achieve a flawless look with minimal effort.

Excellent Hide

To achieve color precision and a uniform look, choose a premium interior paint with excellent hiding properties, usually in a flat finish (see finish options below).

The ceiling will need to be thoroughly cleaned and free from particles that would interfere with the paint. In addition, you may need to spot prime any water stains (use oil primer) or smoke stains (use shellac primer) to prevent bleeding. Coating the prepped surface with premium ceiling paint will ensure maximum uniformity and reward your effort with the best look possible. 

Popular Ceiling Paint Finishes

Ceiling paint typically has a flat or matte finish, because light playing across the surface of a ceiling will highlight any imperfections. However, some homeowners choose to add a bit of shine – for improved washability or added character. Here are some of the most popular choices for ceiling paint sheens:

Flat

Kitchen featuring Benjamin Moore Waterborne Ceiling Paint, Ultra Flat, in Atrium White OC-145

Flat or matte is the most common ceiling paint sheen – and for good reason. Most modern homes have untextured drywall ceilings that make a uniform finish difficult to achieve. Light from windows flooding across the ceiling will make seams or patches more visible. Because flat paint does not reflect light well, it minimizes these surface imperfections.

For a classic, antique look, we recommend Farrow & Ball Dead Flat. This is the flattest finish carried by Ring’s End.

Satin

Playroom featuring ceiling painted with Benjamin Moore ADVANCE interior, Satin, in Paper White OC-55

A satin sheen adds a subtle glow to smooth ceilings, amplifying light. It’s also a good option to use in areas that need to be wiped down frequently. In humid spaces like bathrooms, laundry rooms, or kitchens, flat ceiling paint is susceptible to staining and even cracking, while a premium satin paint or semi-gloss paint would last longer. (The exception is AURA Bath & Spa — the only scrubbable flat finish on the market.)

Semi-Gloss or Gloss

Living room ceiling painted with Benjamin Moore ben Interior, Semi-Gloss, in Gloucester Sage HC-100

Semi-gloss or high-gloss paint are trendy choices for ceilings, adding drama and dimension to living spaces. Just make sure the surface is very smooth before choosing a shiny finish. Flat sheens cover imperfections well for a uniform look, but a shiny finish will highlight any surface blemishes. Fine Paints of Europe Brilliant Hollandlac/Sign Enamel is a popular paint product for achieving a mirror finish.

Shop Ceiling Paint Products at Ring’s End

A new coat of interior ceiling paint can work wonders – brightening dim spaces, adding warmth to expansive rooms, or hiding old stains to make the ceiling look like new. Find everything you need for your project at Ring’s End, including our recommended Benjamin Moore Waterborne Ceiling Paint. We ship Benjamin Moore paints anywhere in the U.S.

For more tips on selecting paint products, check out our Interior Paint Guide, chat with us online, or text us at (203) PRO-HELP. Our paint professionals are here to answer any questions you have!