How to Paint Textured Ceilings

Master the art of painting textured ceilings with our professional guide on sealing and painting for a flawless finish.

Introduction

Textured ceilings, often called “popcorn” or “stipple” ceilings, can be tricky to paint. The texture is fragile, and if it gets too wet with water-based paint, it can peel right off the drywall.

However, a fresh coat of bright white paint on a dingy ceiling can instantly make a room feel larger and cleaner. At Canvas Home Painting, we use a specific method to ensure the texture stays put and the finish looks perfect.

The Secret: Oil-Based Primer

The biggest mistake homeowners make is rolling water-based latex paint directly onto an unsealed textured ceiling. The water in the paint soaks into the texture, dissolving the binder and causing it to fall off in clumps.

The solution is to seal it first.

Step 1: Seal with Oil-Based Primer

We start by applying 2 coats of oil-based primer.

  • Why Oil-Based? Oil-based primers don’t contain water, so they won’t dissolve the texture. They create a hard, sealed barrier that locks the texture in place and prevents stains (like water marks or smoke) from bleeding through.
  • Application: We carefully roll the primer, ensuring even coverage without overworking the fragile surface.

Step 2: Paint with Quality Latex Ceiling Paint

Once the primer has fully cured and the surface is sealed, it’s safe to use water-based paints.

  • The Topcoat: We apply 2 coats of a high-quality latex ceiling paint.
  • Why Latex Now? Latex paint provides a beautiful, flat finish that hides imperfections. Since the texture is already sealed by the oil primer, the water in the latex paint won’t cause any damage.
  • The Result: You get a bright, clean, and durable finish that refreshes the entire room.

Tips for Success

  • Cover Everything: Painting ceilings is messy, especially with texture. We completely cover floors and furniture with drop cloths and plastic.
  • Use the Right Roller: A thick-nap roller (usually 3/4 inch or thicker) is essential for getting paint into all the nooks and crannies of the texture without pressing too hard.
  • Don’t Overwork It: Roll the paint on and leave it. Going back over wet paint can pull the texture loose.

Conclusion

Painting textured ceilings requires the right materials and a gentle touch. By sealing with an oil-based primer first, you can achieve a professional result without the nightmare of peeling texture.

If you’d rather leave the overhead work to the pros, Canvas Home Painting has the experience and equipment to get the job done right.

Get a free quote for your ceiling project today!