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Best ceiling paint
when it comes to painting a ceiling, choosing the right ceiling paint is essential for achieving a smooth, professional finish.
The ceiling plays a crucial role in the overall look of a room, affecting brightness, aesthetics, and durability. selecting the best ceiling paint ensures good coverage, minimizes imperfections, and provides anti-mould protection, especially in moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
how to choose the best ceiling paint
selecting the best ceiling paint, as a part of interior paint, depends on the type of room and environmental conditions. here’s a guide for different areas:
bathroom ceiling paint
bathroom ceilings are exposed to high moisture and humidity. the best bathroom ceiling paint is anti-mould, mildew-resistant, and designed to prevent peeling. look for acrylic or water-based paints with anti-bacterial properties to keep the ceiling clean and fresh.
kitchen ceiling paint
kitchen ceilings often accumulate grease and stains from cooking. the ideal kitchen ceiling paint should be washable, stain-resistant, and anti-mould to prevent fungal growth from steam and heat. semi-gloss or satin finishes work well, but a high-quality low sheen or matte finish with mould-resistant properties is also effective.
living room and bedroom ceiling paint
for living rooms and bedrooms, a flat white ceiling paint is the most common choice. it provides a clean look, reduces glare from lighting, and creates a seamless finish. while anti-mould properties aren’t always necessary in these areas, it’s still a good option for homes in humid climates.
stain-blocking and anti-mould ceiling paint
in homes with nicotine stains, water damage, or previous mould problems, a stain-blocking and anti-mould ceiling paint is essential. these paints seal stains, prevent discolouration, and inhibit future mould growth.
what makes a paint the best for ceilings?
not all paints are created equal, especially for ceilings. the best ceiling paint should have the following qualities:
flat or matte finish – hides imperfections and prevents glare.
high opacity and coverage – reduces the number of coats needed for an even look.
low-splatter formula – minimizes drips and makes application easier.
stain resistance and anti-mould protection – prevents water stains and fungal growth in humid environments.
washability – particularly important for ceilings in kitchens and bathrooms.
types of ceiling paint based on shininess
choosing the right ceiling paint finish depends on your space, lighting, and maintenance needs. here are the most common options:
Best ceiling paint colours
while white remains the most popular ceiling paint colour, there are other options that can create different effects.
Tools needed for painting a ceiling
to achieve the best results, you’ll need:
Ceiling paint (flat or low sheen for most areas)
Roller with an extension pole (9 to 12-inch roller)
Paint tray
Angled brush for cutting in edges
Drop cloths and painter’s tape
Ladder or scaffolding
Best Ceiling White Paint in Australia
When it comes to selecting the best white paint for ceilings in Australia, several trusted brands stand out for their quality, coverage, and ease of application.
These Australian-made ceiling paints are designed to handle the local climate and provide lasting results, whether you're a DIY homeowner or a professional painter.
Dulux Ceiling White
Dulux Ceiling White is one of the most popular choices, offering a high-opacity, ultra-flat finish that hides imperfections and delivers a crisp, clean look. It's specifically formulated to reduce glare and minimize roller marks, making it ideal for both new ceilings and repaints.
Taubmans Easycoat Ceiling White
Taubmans Easycoat Ceiling White, known for its low splatter formula and mould-resistant properties—perfect for humid areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
Wattyl Interior Design i.d Ceiling White
Wattyl Interior Design i.d Ceiling White also receives high praise for its smooth application and consistent coverage.
step-by-step guide to painting a ceiling
Best ceiling paint brands in australia
if you’re looking for high-quality ceiling paint with anti-mould protection and excellent coverage, here are some of the top brands available in australia:
What’s the Best Ceiling Paint Color for Dark Rooms?
For dark rooms, the best ceiling paint color is one with a high Light Reflectance Value (LRV), which helps bounce light around the space, making it feel brighter and more open.
White and off-white shades are the most effective, as they reflect the most natural and artificial light. If you want warmth, a soft cream or light gray can also enhance brightness without feeling stark.
Avoid dark ceiling colors unless you are intentionally creating a cozy, moody atmosphere, as they can make the room feel smaller and more enclosed.
For maximum brightness, opt for ultra-flat white paints like Dulux Wash & Wear Ceiling White or Taubmans Endure Ceiling White, and Wattyl I.D. Ceiling Flat, which reduce glare while maintaining a soft, even finish.
Comparison Table: Pros & Cons of Popular Ceiling Paints
|
Paint Name |
Finish |
Best For |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Wattyl I.D. Ceiling Flat |
Flat |
General use, hiding imperfections |
High opacity, smooth finish, good for large areas |
Not highly washable |
|
Dulux Wash&Wear +Plus Anti-Bac Ceiling White |
Ultra-flat |
Kitchens, bathrooms, health-conscious homes |
Anti-bacterial, mold-resistant, easy to clean |
Slightly more expensive |
|
Taubmans Endure Ceiling White |
Low sheen |
High-moisture areas, durability |
Mold-resistant, scrubbable, durable finish |
More reflective than flat paints |
Paint Performance: Opacity, Viscosity, and Drying Time of Best Ceiling Paints
|
Paint Name |
Opacity (Coverage Per Coat) |
Viscosity (Thickness, Drip Control) |
Drying Time (Touch Dry / Recoat) |
|
Wattyl I.D. Ceiling Flat |
High (1-2 coats) |
Medium viscosity (drip-resistant) |
1 hour / 4 hours |
|
Dulux Wash&Wear +Plus Anti-Bac Ceiling White |
Very high (1 coat) |
Thick viscosity (low splatter) |
1 hour / 4-6 hours |
|
Taubmans Endure Ceiling White |
Medium-High (1-2 coats) |
Medium viscosity (smooth application) |
1 hour / 4 hours |
How Ceiling Paint Affects Room Ambience & Light Reflectance Value (LRV)
Ceiling paint has a major impact on how light behaves in a room. The three paints listed above are designed to enhance brightness, but their Light Reflectance Value (LRV) differs based on their finish:
- Wattyl I.D. Ceiling Flat has a high LRV (80-90) due to its ultra-flat finish, making it ideal for hiding imperfections and maximizing brightness.
- Dulux Wash&Wear +Plus Anti-Bac Ceiling White also has a high LRV (85-95) and adds extra durability in areas prone to mold, making it perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
- Taubmans Endure Ceiling White, with its low-sheen finish, has a slightly lower LRV (~75-85) but provides better washability and durability, making it ideal for areas with higher moisture exposure.
If you want maximum brightness and an open feel, Dulux and Wattyl are the best choices. If you need a balance of light reflection and durability, Taubmans Endure Ceiling White is a strong contender.
Ceiling paint FAQ
- A 9- to 12-inch roller with a 3/8- to 3/4-inch nap is ideal for ceilings.
- Smooth ceilings – Use a 3/8-inch nap for an even finish.
- Textured or popcorn ceilings – Use a 3/4-inch nap to reach crevices.
Ceiling paint can be used on walls, but it’s not ideal because:
- It’s less durable and can get scuffed easily.
- It has low washability compared to wall paint.
- It may not have enough color variety for wall finishes.
Peeling ceiling paint is often caused by:
- Moisture or humidity (common in bathrooms and kitchens).
- Poor surface preparation (painting over dirt, grease, or flaking paint).
- Skipping primer on new drywall or stained areas.
- Applying too many thick layers, causing the paint to crack.
Yes, but you need to prepare the surface properly:
- Clean the ceiling to remove dirt and grease.
- Lightly sand the surface to create adhesion.
- Apply a bonding primer that works over oil-based paint.
- Use a latex-based ceiling paint over the primer.
- Use a light ceiling color (white or off-white) to reflect light and create the illusion of height.
- Avoid dark ceiling colors, which can make the room feel smaller.
- Use vertical stripes on walls to draw the eye upward.
- Choose a satin or eggshell finish for a slight reflective effect.
Yes, ceiling paint can be tinted to create a softer look. Popular tint options include:
- Off-white for warmth.
- Light gray for a modern touch.
- Pastels for a subtle accent.
Ceiling paint FAQ
- Using a primer before applying ceiling paint can significantly improve the final result, especially in certain conditions. If you are painting a new drywall ceiling, a stained ceiling, or one with uneven coloration, applying a primer is highly recommended. Primer creates a smooth, even base, allowing the ceiling paint to adhere better and ensuring uniform coverage.
- For ceilings with stains from water, smoke, or grease, using a stain-blocking primer is essential to prevent discoloration from bleeding through the fresh paint. If your ceiling has been previously painted in a dark color, a primer helps achieve a lighter shade with fewer coats.
- However, if your ceiling is in good condition and you're using a high-quality ceiling paint with built-in primer, you may be able to skip this step. Always assess the condition of the ceiling before deciding whether a primer is necessary.
A patchy ceiling is usually caused by
- Uneven paint application (not using enough paint on the roller).
- Not maintaining a wet edge while rolling.
- Inconsistent drying conditions (painting in high humidity or extreme temperatures).
Applying a second coat with even pressure can help fix patchy areas.
- Touch dry: Usually 1–2 hours.
- Ready for a second coat: 4–6 hours (depending on humidity and temperature).
- Fully cured: Around 7–14 days, when the paint reaches full durability.
Yes, a paint sprayer can provide a smooth, even finish and reduce the risk of roller marks. However, it requires:
- Proper masking of walls and floors to avoid overspray.
- Ventilation to manage paint fumes.
- Even spraying technique to prevent drips or streaks.
- Use high-quality ceiling paint with good durability.
- Avoid excessive moisture and use ventilation in humid areas.
- Clean ceilings gently with a damp cloth to remove dust.
- Fix leaks or stains immediately to prevent damage.
Cracking ceiling paint is caused by:
- Applying thick layers that dry unevenly.
- Skipping primer on a porous surface.
- Moisture or leaks affecting the ceiling.
- Extreme temperature changes, causing expansion and contraction.
Solution: Scrape off cracked paint, sand the surface, apply a primer, and repaint with thin, even coats.
Final thoughts on choosing the right ceiling paint
Choosing the best ceiling paint involves selecting the right finish, colour, and features like anti-mould protection. whether you need bathroom ceiling paint, kitchen ceiling paint, or a stain-blocking option, investing in high-quality ceiling paint ensures durability and a professional finish. Just note that ceiling paint is categorized as interior paint on suppliers' product list.
Using the right ceiling paint tools and following a step-by-step painting process will help you achieve the best results.
If you're a professional painter looking for trusted paint supplier, visit painterslink.com.au to find the best deals on ceiling paint and accessories.
