If you are considering renovating your home’s interior, you know how crucial it is to select the right paint for your projects. Most of us will ask the same questions when we paint our homes: What paint should I use? Can I use ceiling paint and wall paint interchangeably? Or is it worth the extra cost for ceiling paint?


Technically, you can use ceiling paint on walls and vice versa. However, choosing the correct paint for your project is a bit more complex, as there are differences.

What is Ceiling Paint?

Ceiling paint is more viscous, making it thicker than wall paint. As a result, it is easy to apply (usually one coat is all you need), dries quicker, and has a smooth, even finish. You can purchase ceiling paint in a flat or low-gloss sheen.

Some benefits of ceiling paint include being resistant to staining caused by smoke, cooking vapors, and other substances. Ceiling pain is also mildew-resistant. However, standard wall paint does not offer these benefits.

IS FLAT WHITE WALL PAINT THE SAME AS CEILING PAINT

Not exactly. Most homes will work well with flat white ceiling paint because it has a matte finish and conceals imperfections. Additionally, matte finishes help reduce light reflection. High-gloss ceiling paint will reflect light everywhere.

CAN I USE WALL PAINT ON CEILINGS?

It is technically possible to use wall paint on a ceiling. However, there are limitations.

The paint will be less thick, so you will have more drips than you would if you used actual ceiling paint. As a result, you will need to do more prep work in the beginning, or there will be more splatter to clean up once the job is complete. Also, as previously stated, ceiling paint has more viscosity than wall paint, which helps to prevent dripping.

CAN I USE CEILING PAINT ON MY WALLS?

Using ceiling paint on your walls can make the painting process much smoother, as it minimizes the time needed to fix noticeable drip spots. However, ceiling paint has limited color options, so consider using it as a primer if you want a more vibrant color on your walls. 

However, there are situations where ceiling paint on walls is an excellent choice. For example, thicker ceiling paint is better for “dirty” or high-traffic areas, such as a mudroom or basement entry.

CAN I MIX CEILING PAINT WITH WALL PAINT?

Ceiling and wall paint can be mixed, provided they have the same sheen. To ensure everything runs smoothly, test the entire project before painting. Mixing small amounts of wall and ceiling paint is a good idea, so you don’t waste too much paint if there are any issues.

WHAT IS THE BEST CEILING PAINT?

Each paint contains a specific amount of solvent to help it roll better on walls. According to Home Depot, here are top picks for ceiling paints:

• KILZ Color-Change Stainblocking Ceiling Paint. Kilz is known for its top-selling brand of primers, but they also have excellent ceiling paint. The paint goes on light pink and will dry in about an hour, then fade to white after it’s completely dried (approximately two hours).
• Behr Premium Plus Interior Ceiling Paint. Behr paint is high-quality paint, and it is very affordable. You can tint Behr ceiling paint to lighter colors. If you don’t want your ceiling to look stark white, you can tint it with a light or creamy color.
• Zinsser Ceiling Paint and Primer in One. Zinnser also offers regular paint, but this product is specifically for ceilings. Its durable coating hides and seals in one easy coat.

Choose Stanford Painting

Top-quality painting is critical in protecting and enhancing your home, which is why so many families and businesses have chosen Stanford Painting
for their interior and exterior painting projects. We use only high-quality paints and materials, are up-to-date with current techniques, have experienced crews, and provide exceptional customer service.

For a no-obligation quote, complete our online contact form
or call us at 650-321-9302 today!

Sources

https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/best-ceiling-paint-for-your-home/