When it comes time to give your interior walls a fresh coat of paint, what are the rules for painting ceilings? What color should you paint it to enhance the mood and feel of your home? So much of the answer will depend on what space you’re working with and your own personal style. There are several different paint color options that have an effect on finding an aesthetically pleasing combination. So let’s explore some basic rules for painting ceilings that will leave you excited once your project is finished.
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Painting Ceilings Same Color as Walls
Many people wonder what the pros and cons are of painting your ceilings the same color as your walls. Painting the ceiling and walls the same color for certain spaces works perfectly well but isn’t always ideal. For the most desirable look, we’ve found that using either dark or light colors of the paint spectrum look the best. Sometimes those medium paint tones don’t create the eye-catching results hoped for.
It’s said that painting your walls and ceiling the same color has the ability to make your room look bigger. The idea is that the seamless transition from walls to the ceiling will draw your eyes upward, giving the illusion of more space. You might not believe it, but this concept works especially well with crown molding. When painting the same color as the ceiling and wall, crown molding can add height to your room.
Pros of Painting Ceilings and Walls the Same Color:
- Painting the walls and ceiling the same color is faster and less expensive than purchasing two separate colors of paint.
- It can help make the ceiling look higher.
- Painting walls with angled walls and ceilings the same color can avoid making the room look and feel choppy.
- You avoid the worry of using conflicting undertones.
- It can bring a cozy feeling to a large room.
- It creates a seamless look.
While there is no clear answer if using different colors for your walls and ceilings is best, in the end it will come down to personal preference. Ultimately, it’s your home and you should create a space you enjoy living in.
Cons of Painting Ceilings and Walls the Same Color:
- Sometimes painting your walls and ceiling the same color can make your room look closed-in or small, especially if there aren’t natural lighting sources.
- If you’re looking for a bold, contrasting look, using the same paint won’t be a great choice for you.
- If going with a bold or bright color, it may be too over-the-top to use the same color on both ceilings and walls.
- Using the same color can create a caved-in effect if there’s no other color in the room to break up the space.
- It can look too monotone or boring.
White Ceiling
White is by far the most popular color people use to paint their ceilings. A white ceiling reflects the most amount of light, creating the look of a larger space. White will allow your ceiling to showcase wall decor and furnishings. Another benefit of white ceiling paint is that it has the ability to cover imperfections and blemishes. White paint is easy to use and easy to touch up. Darker colors have a tendency to bleed through the tape and make any little mistake very obvious. Last but not least, white provides an illusion of depth. Dark ceiling colors have a definite visual stopping point.
What Paint Finish is Best for Ceilings?
When choosing a paint finish for your ceiling, a flat or matte finish almost always works best. The glossier paint finishes such as semi or high-gloss, reflect more light and can be visually distracting. Ceiling paint should be durable enough to not crack or peel and be able to cover any stains or discoloration. We typically recommend flat, latex paint for textured ceilings.
Dark Ceiling, Light Walls
Many homeowners are choosing to go with a dark-colored ceiling and lighter walls. Colors such as navy, dark brown, and even black are currently trending when it comes to ceilings. A darker ceiling comes with a host of benefits such as creating a modern, contemporary look. This dark-light color combo can also create a welcoming atmosphere.
It’s important to note that if your room is small or has little natural light, a darker ceiling can soak up any remaining light, and make it feel closed-in and claustrophobic. For a room with tall ceilings and multiple natural lighting sources, a dark ceiling can be an excellent choice.
Light Ceiling, Dark Walls
This is obviously the most common wall-to-ceiling combination since most people paint their ceiling some tone of white and is an excellent idea for small spaces. Also, if your furnishings are a lighter color, as is the style these days, they will really “pop” against darker walls. Some form of contrast can add depth and personality to your room.
Best Ceiling Paint Color
Due to personal preference, there’s no way to determine the best ceiling paint color. However, we can recommend a few of our favorites along with offering tips for choosing paint colors in general
- Consider the decor and furniture in your room. Take color cues from the artwork, window coverings, and flooring. Be mindful of these elements when choosing a color.
- Take advantage of paint samples. Choose a peel and stick color sample to leave up on your wall for a few days. This gives you the chance to see how you really feel about it. Paint can have very different appearances depending on its exposure to natural sunlight.
- Neutral tones are never boring and never go out of style. 4. Consider how the color you may choose will coordinate with the color of adjoining or nearby rooms.
Best Ceiling and Walls Color Ideas
The ceiling, or fifth wall, often gets overlooked when it comes to color consideration. But your ceiling can be the perfect place to experiment with a bold new look. Below are a few ideas we’ve recently seen brought to life.
True Blue
Blue has the ability to bring depth or tranquility to any space by bringing elements of nature inside. Consider pairing a sky-blue ceiling with cool gray walls. The blue ceiling can add a more playful touch to an otherwise sophisticated space. Blue has a long-standing reputation as a homeowner favorite spanning several decades.
Black Magic
A darker ceiling can add a richness and “wow” factor to an otherwise ordinary room. Don’t let colors like black scare you away when they have so much to offer. Black walls and ceilings with bright white crown molding and trim will forever be a classic. Contemporary or farmhouse, you can spin the black-and-white theme in a variety of directions.
Neutral Tones
If you love neutral and earthy tones, don’t feel that white ceiling paint is your only option. Try experimenting with a dusty pink or pale peach. These tones will give you a chance to add personality to your room while staying true to your minimalist nature.
Rules for Painting Ceilings Conclusion
Ceilings can be frustrating and tricky to paint. If you have questions about painting your ceiling or just prefer a professional painting company to get the job done for you, contact PaintRite Pros. We offer a variety of superior painting services throughout the Sacramento County area including El Dorado County, Roseville, Woodland, and more. If you need a painting contractor in Yuba City, we recommend Silver Cloud Painting! Our experts have more than 25 years of combined painting experience and it shows. Contact us today for your free estimate! Hablamos Espanol tambien! If you’re searching for painters north of Sacramento in the Lincoln area, we recommend Diamond Star Painting.
