Categories interior painting

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper and Should You? 

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper?

If you’re considering updating the walls in your home, you may be wondering, “Can you paint over wallpaper”? Perhaps you’ve inherited wallpaper that doesn’t quite match your style, or maybe you’ve grown tired of a pattern that once seemed charming. Whatever the reason, the good news is that painting over wallpaper is often a viable solution for transforming a room’s look and feel without the need for a time-consuming removal process. However, before you start painting over your wallpaper, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of this approach and learn some tips to ensure that your results are long-lasting and visually appealing. In this post, we’ll explore whether painting over wallpaper is a good idea, and offer some helpful advice to help you achieve a professional finish. 

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When Not to Paint Over Wallpaper 

While painting over wallpaper can be a convenient and cost-effective solution for updating your room’s decor, there are certain situations where it’s not advisable. Here are some instances where you should avoid painting over wallpaper: 

  1. Damaged or peeling wallpaper: When your wallpaper is already damaged or peeling, painting over it will only exacerbate the problem. The paint may not adhere well to the damaged surface, leading to a patchy or uneven finish. In this case, it’s best to remove the wallpaper and repair the wall before applying new paint.
  2. Vinyl or glossy wallpaper: Wallpaper that has a vinyl or glossy finish is very difficult for paint to adhere to. This can result in peeling or bubbling over time, making your paint job look unsightly. If you have vinyl or glossy wallpaper, it’s best to remove it before painting.
  3. Textured or embossed wallpaper: If your wallpaper has a textured or embossed surface, painting over it may not be the best option. The texture or embossing may show through the paint, creating a bumpy or uneven appearance. In this case, it’s best to remove the wallpaper and apply paint directly to the wall.
  1. Outdated or unattractive wallpaper: If your wallpaper is outdated or unattractive, painting over it may not be enough to achieve the desired look. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective and visually appealing to remove the wallpaper and start fresh with a new coat of paint.

To sum it all up, if your wallpaper is damaged, has a vinyl or glossy finish, is textured or embossed, or is outdated or unattractive, it may not be a good idea to paint over it. Instead, you may need to remove the wallpaper and prepare the wall before applying new paint. 

When to Paint Over Wallpaper 

Now that we’ve discussed when you shouldn’t paint over your wallpaper, lets go over situations when it makes the most sense: 

  1. The wallpaper is in good condition: If your wallpaper is in good condition with no signs of damage, peeling, or bubbling, you may be able to paint over it. This can be a convenient way to update the look of a room without having to go through the time-consuming and messy process of removing wallpaper.
  2. The wallpaper is a neutral color or pattern: When your wallpaper has a neutral color or pattern that complements the rest of the room’s decor, painting over it can be a great way to refresh the room’s look without making significant changes. A fresh coat of paint can help modernize the space and give it a new look and feel.
  1. The wallpaper is properly primed: Painting over wallpaper that has been properly primed can be a viable option. Proper priming ensures that the wallpaper’s surface is smooth and even, allowing paint to adhere well and providing a good base for a professional-looking finish.
  1. You don’t want to remove wallpaper: Sometimes you just don’t want to go through the time, effort, and expense of removing your old wallpaper. This is when painting over it looks increasingly appealing. This is especially true if you’re not planning to live in your current home for an extended period or want a quick, cost-effective solution.

If you do come to the conclusion that you want to move forward with painting over your current wallpaper, it’s essential to follow the proper preparation steps and use the right products to ensure a smooth finish. 

How Long Should you Wait Between Coats of Paint?

Supplies You’ll Need to Paint Over Wallpaper 

To be successful at any DIY project, it’s important to procure the proper supplies beforehand. We’ve compiled a list of the essentials when it comes to painting over wallpaper: 

  • Paint
  • Primer
  • Sandpaper
  • Paintbrushes and rollers
  • Painter’s tape
  • Drop cloths
  • Cleaning supplies

Remember to choose only high-quality products that are appropriate for the surface you’ll be painting. This will ensure that your finished product looks professional and lasts for years to come. 

How to Remove Wallpaper 

We have to warn you that removing wallpaper can be an extremely tedious task. However, it’s very necessary in many cases to achieve the smooth, professional look you’re wanting. Below are the steps to follow to properly remove wallpaper before repainting the surface: 

  1. Remove the wallpaper’s top layer: Use a putty knife or scraper to loosen and remove the top layer of the wallpaper. This layer is usually made of vinyl or paper and should come off easily. If the wallpaper is particularly stubborn, you can score it with a wallpaper scoring tool to help the wallpaper removal solution penetrate it.
  2. Apply wallpaper removal solution: Apply a wallpaper removal solution to the wallpaper’s backing, following the manufacturer’s instructions. This will help soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove the wallpaper.
  3. Scrape off backing: Use a putty knife or scraper to remove the wallpaper backing. Work carefully to avoid damaging the wall surface underneath. If the backing is particularly stubborn, you can use a wallpaper steamer to help loosen it.
  4. Clean the wall surface: Once you’ve removed all the wallpaper, use a sponge and warm water to clean the wall surface thoroughly. If there’s any remaining adhesive, use a solution of warm water and vinegar to remove it.
  5. Sand the wall surface: Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough spots or imperfections on the wall surface.
  6. Apply primer: Once the wall surface is clean and dry, apply a high-quality primer.

How to Paint Over Wallpaper 

Painting over existing wallpaper can be a quicker and easier alternative to removing it entirely. Below are the steps we recommend you follow for the best results: 

  1. Clean the wallpaper surface: Before painting, make sure the wallpaper surface is clean and free of any dirt or debris. 2. Sand the wallpaper surface.
  2. Apply a wallpaper primer:
  3. Apply paint: Once the primer is dry, you can apply your paint of choice. Use a paint that’s suitable for the surface you’ll be painting and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Be sure to use a paint brush or roller that’s appropriate for the type of paint you’re using.
  4. Apply a second coat: Depending on the quality and coverage of the paint, you may need to apply a second coat. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat.
  5. Clean up: After you’ve finished painting, clean up any spills or drips and remove the painter’s tape. Allow the paint to dry completely before moving any furniture back into the room.

Where to Buy Wallpaper Removal and Paint Supplies in Boise 

There are several really great options for buying painting and wallpaper removal supplies in the Treasure Valley. We’ve put together a list of just a few of our top choices for your convenience:

  • Sherwin-Williams: They have multiple locations in the Boise area, including a store on W Overland Rd and another on S Broadway Ave.
  • Home Depot: There are multiple Home Depot locations in the Boise area, including one on W Franklin Rd and another on N Milwaukee St.
  • Lowe’s: Lowe’s is another home improvement store that offers a variety of painting supplies, including paint, brushes, and rollers. There are multiple Lowe’s locations in the Boise area, including one on W Overland Rd and another on N Eagle Rd.
  • Boise Paint and Glass: Boise Paint and Glass is a locally-owned paint supply store that carries a large variety of painting tools and supplies. They also have multiple locations in the Boise area, including a store on W Idaho St and another on E Fairview Ave.

Can You Paint Over Wallpaper Conclusion 

While it’s certainly possible to paint over wallpaper, it’s best to recognize when that’s actually the best option and when it’s more appropriate to go in a different direction. If you live in the Boise area and you feel it’s time to refresh the interior or exterior of your home with a fresh coat of paint, look at Boise Home Painting. We are a family-owned business that has years of experience in the Treasure Valley. We will be happy to give you an estimate and free color consultation to make upgrading your paint as easy as possible.

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How To Paint Walls With A Roller: Step-By-Step Guide

How to paint walls with a paint roller

Why should you learn how to paint walls with a roller? For starters, it’s a super easy and efficient way to freshen up the look of a room. Before you get started, it’s important to prepare your interior walls and prime them so the paint will adhere better. We’ll also go through the details cutting the edges of the walls and fill in any holes or cracks. We’ll go over all of this in more depth below to make it easy for you. Follow the steps below to learn how to paint walls with a roller.

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Prepping to paint walls with a roller

Before you start painting your walls, you’ll need to do the necessary prep work. Part of that is having all the right materials. Below is a list of everything you’ll need to paint your walls with a roller and do all the right preparation: 

  • Paint roller frame 
  • Paint roller cover 
  • Paint 
  • Primer 
  • Spackle 
  • Sandpaper 
  • Soap and water 
  • Newspaper or cardboard 
  • Paint tray 
  • Paint brush

Cleaning the walls

Start by cleaning the walls with a damp cloth to remove any dust and dirt. If you are painting over glossy or semi-gloss paint, use a light sandpaper to dull the finish. You’ll want to start by removing any dust, cobwebs, and dirt from your walls. You can do this with a vacuum, a damp cloth, or a damp sponge. If the walls are heavily soiled, use a mild soap and water solution to clean them. Make sure you rinse the walls with clean water and let them dry completely before painting. 

Sanding

Next you’ll need to use a fine sandpaper to remove any bumps or imperfections in the surface of the walls. Fill in any holes or cracks in the walls with spackle or other appropriate filler. Once you can see that the walls are completely dry and smooth, apply a coat of primer before painting. This will help you ensure an even and professional finish.

Priming the walls 

Prime the walls with a good-quality primer. This will help the paint adhere better and create a smooth surface. When you start, prepare the wall surface by filling any holes or cracks with spackle and sanding the area smoothly. Apply a coat of primer to the wall using a paint roller. Make sure to roll the roller in a “W” pattern, starting at the top of the wall and working your way down. You’ll need to let the primer dry for at least two hours. Once it’s dry, you can apply a second coat of primer, if necessary. Again, use a paint roller and apply it in a “W” pattern. Let the second coat of primer dry for at least two hours before painting.

Should You Sand Between Coats of Paint?

Cut in the edges and fill in the holes

Use a brush to cut in the edges of the wall, such as around the ceiling, baseboards, door frames, and windows. Then you’ll need to fill in any holes or cracks with spackling compound or caulk. Don’t forget to let the compound dry before continuing.

Prepare the roller

Pour the paint into a paint tray and insert a roller cover onto the roller. Dip the roller into the paint and roll it off onto the tray to evenly spread the paint. Once you’ve done this, you can start rolling the paint onto the wall. Start in a corner of the room and roll the paint onto the wall. Move the roller in a “W” pattern to ensure even coverage. Do you notice a pattern here? Painting in a “W” pattern is key. 

Don’t forget to backroll

To back roll with a paint roller, start by painting the surface with an up-and-down motion. Then, use the roller to go over the area in a crisscross pattern from one side of the room to the other, and then back again. This will help to spread the paint evenly and eliminate any brush marks or lines. You don’t NEED to backroll but we recommend you do because it helps your paint job last longer. We backroll on every paint job we do. If you don’t, your paint will look noticeably faded after just a few years. 

Cleaning up after painting with a roller

When you’re finished painting, remove the roller cover and wash it with soap and water. You can remove excess paint from the roller by rolling it onto a piece of newspaper or absorbent cloth. Next, rinse the roller in warm water to remove any remaining paint. Squeeze out any excess water and shake the roller to remove any excess paint that might be remaining. Once you’ve done that, place the roller in a bucket of warm, soapy water and let it soak for 15-20 minutes. Then you can rinse the roller off and spin it between your hands to remove any remaining paint. Lastly, hang the roller up or lay it on a towel to dry.

Places to buy your paint supplies in Boise

Here’s a list of places where you can purchase everything you need to paint walls with a roller:

  1. Boise Paint & Supply
  2. True Value 
  3. The Home Depot 
  4. Lowe’s 
  5. Sherwin-Williams 
  6. Ace Hardware 
  7. Do It Best Hardware 
  8. Idaho Paint and Supply Company

Conclusion on how to paint walls with a roller

Learning how to paint walls with a roller isn’t difficult. It just takes some time, the right materials, and following the right steps. But it is a lot of work. That’s why a lot of people decide to hire a professional painter. We can do that for you. In fact, we’ll give you a free estimate if you live in the Boise area. We serve everywhere from Boise to Meridian, Nampa, Eagle, and Caldwell. 

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How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets? 

Cost To Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Giving your cabinets a fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to give your kitchen a fresh new look. So how much does it cost to paint kitchen cabinets? Repainting your cabinets will be a much less expensive project than resurfacing or replacing them. In this article, we’ll discuss the cost of painting your cabinets as a DIY compared to hiring a professional as well as ways to save you money in both instances.

If you live in the Boise area and need a professional painter to paint your kitchen cabinets, we’ll give you a free quote! We serve the entire area including Meridian, Boise, Eagle, and Nampa!

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Boise Cabinet Painting

How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets? 

The cost to repaint your kitchen cabinets may be less expensive than you think. On average, you can expect to pay somewhere between $400-$1300 depending on the quality of paint and the size and layout of your kitchen. This cost is mainly for labor but also includes the paint and other supplies. The national average is roughly $750 per kitchen. Because having your kitchen cabinets painted won’t break the bank, it remains one of the most popular kitchen renovations to up the value of your home.

What Goes Into Cabinet Painting 

There’s a fair amount of prep work that goes into painting your kitchen cabinets if you are attempting to do it yourself. It will pay off in the long run if you take the time beforehand to gather all the necessary materials and give yourself plenty of time. Plan on several days to complete the project. Always wear the appropriate safety gear and remember to open your windows for proper ventilation. 

Step 1. Determine the Cabinet’s Condition 

Surfaces that are already painted can be painted again but only if the existing paint is in good condition. If not, the old paint will need to be removed. This may require stripping products and some extra sanding to remove the old paint completely. 

While assessing the condition of your cabinets, you may decide that some doors need to be completely replaced rather than repainted. You’ll need different supplies and materials depending on what prep work your cabinets need. 

Step 2. Remove Dust and Grease 

Before applying any primer or paint, it’s important to make sure your cabinets have been thoroughly wiped down to remove all grease, dust, and dirt that has built up.

Step 3. Remove the Cabinet Doors 

Your next step will be to remove the doors, drawers, and hardware. It’s a good idea to label each piece with painter’s tape to eliminate guesswork when it comes time to put everything back together. Place the hardware in plastic bags and label where they go as well. 

Because there will be sanding taking place during the process, you’ll want to empty your cabinets at this time. This way you won’t have to wash every dish after your project is completed. 

Step 4. Prep and Sand 

Use drop cloths to cover your countertops, appliances, and any other areas you want to protect from dust and paint. Use painter’s tape to protect areas on the wall along the edge of your cabinets. Next, sand all cabinet surfaces with a medium-grit sanding block. A scuffed-up surface will help your primer and paint adhere much more effectively. Use a piece of folded sandpaper to get in the nooks and crannies and corners of your cabinets. Wipe down all cabinet surfaces thoroughly to ensure no fine dust particles remain. 

Step 5. Prime 

Primer isn’t always necessary. However, in this case, we feel priming is an important part of the process. Primer not only covers imperfections but also provides the best surface for paint to adhere to. Allow plenty of time for the primer to dry before moving on to painting. 

Step 6. Paint 

When applying paint to your kitchen cabinets, you can either use a roller or a brush. If you’re a little more advanced and have access to one, a paint sprayer is also an excellent option. Start by painting your cabinet frames, then the backs and fronts. 

Step 7. Apply a Second Coat 

After allowing several hours for your first coat to dry, we recommend applying a second coat. It will definitely take more time but is well worth it for the extra coverage and protection it provides. 

Step 8. Reassemble Kitchen Cabinets 

Once you’re certain your cabinet surfaces are completely cured, you can reassemble the doors to the frame as well as replacing your hardware.

Do I Need to Prime Before Painting? 

How to Calculate the Cost of Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets?

We mentioned that several factors go into figuring out the cost of repainting the cabinets in your specific kitchen. Let’s discuss the most common factors in detail: 

  • Paint Quality 

While there are a variety of paints designed specifically for kitchen cabinets, any high-quality paint should work. You’ll want to be sure to go with acrylic paint and avoid vinyl. Because kitchen cabinets need to be frequently wiped down, they do best with acrylic latex-based paint because of its durability. The higher quality your paint, the more expensive your cost will be. 

  • Painting Supplies Needed 

Deciding which painting method you want to use will play into your overall cost of the project because it will determine what tools you need to purchase. Spraying is an efficient method that gets the job 

done fast but may not be a tool you have on hand. Rollers and brushes are less expensive and are great for those hard to get into areas. Remember that whichever method you go with, you’ll need to purchase the primer, paint, drop-clothes, tape, paint pans, sandpaper, etc. These supplies add up to around $250-$550. When you hire a professional, they already have these materials. 

  • Kitchen Size 

Obviously, the fewer cabinets you have, the less expensive your job will be. So if you know you have a small kitchen, expect to pay less as opposed to a kitchen with larger square footage. 

  • Cabinet Surface Area 

If you have standard-size cabinets, a painting contractor may quote you a certain price per cabinet piece such as a drawer or door. However, they may charge you more if your cabinets have a larger surface area. It will commonly cost you more if your kitchen is difficult to maneuver in or has an excessive amount of corners. 

  • Labor Cost 

Labor costs will be a substantial amount of your cost. Depending on where you live, painting contractors may charge between $25-$50 per hour while others charge a base rate after calculating the total linear feet of your cabinets.

Cost to DIY and Cost to Hire a Professional 

DIY painting projects usually seem doable and typically save you a substantial amount of money. But it’s important to keep in mind that painting experts know the ins and outs of their trade and have the skills to do the job right. 

The bulk of your costs for a DIY project will come from purchasing paint and primer along with other painting supplies. A high-quality paint will run you about $55 per gallon. One gallon will generally cover 12 cabinet surfaces. To achieve the most professional look you can, you’ll want to purchase a quality primer as well. These two products combined will run you between $13 to $15 per cabinet surface. 

We know from experience that many homeowners attempt to paint their kitchen cabinets themselves and regret the time and money they put into it. They aren’t satisfied with the finished product. 

Repainting your cabinets is also a pretty big undertaking and will consume a few days of your time. Remember that time is money. Sometimes paying more to ensure you will love the end result while freeing up time for you to accomplish other things is simply the best way to go. 

A team of professionals will mean your kitchen is disrupted for a shorter period of time, will help protect the rest of your kitchen, and they will know the best paint or stain for your specific cabinets. 

Why You Should Get Your Kitchen Cabinets Repainted

We’ve already mentioned a few of the reasons why people might repaint their kitchen cabinets. However, below are the three main reasons:

  • Cost-effective renovation method 
  • Adds value to your home 
  • Updates and refreshes your style 

How to Save Money Painting Your Cabinets 

If you feel that hiring a professional painter is the best way to go but are worried it will cost too much, we have some helpful tips to save you money: 

  • Watch for deals or discounts offered by your local painting companies. 
  • Remove your cabinet drawers, door, and hardware by yourself. This will save you money on labor costs and is very simple to do.
  • Depending on the condition of your cabinets, you may be able to get away with using a paint that already has the primer included. This saves you from purchasing a separate paint and primer. 
  • You may be able to get a deal from your painting company if you have other rooms in your home that you’ve been wanting to get repainted at the same time. 

Cost to Reface Your Cabinets 

Refacing your cabinets is a great alternative when you want an entirely new look for your kitchen without completely replacing them. But it will certainly cost you more than simply repainting. Refacing cabinets is a common choice for homeowners with laminate or cheaper surfaces in poor condition so they can’t be repainted. 

Conclusion on How Much Does it Cost to Paint Kitchen Cabinets

Repainting your kitchen cabinets by yourself will be less expensive than hiring a professional painting contractor. However, painting kitchen cabinets can be quite a tedious task that could leave your kitchen taken apart for days at a time. Hiring a skilled painting company will ensure your cabinets turn out with a smooth and quality finish. The team at Boise Home Painting gets the job done quickly and efficiently and can make your cabinets look new again. No matter where you live in the Treasure Valley, our experienced painters are happy to come out and give you a free quote. Your dream kitchen may be closer than you think.

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How to use black paint for walls

How To Use Black Paint For Walls

In this guide, we’ll teach you how to use black paint for walls. When it comes to painting your walls black, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First of all, black is a very strong color and can easily overwhelm a space if you don’t use it correctly. It’s important to find the right shade of black that will work well with the other colors in your room. You also need to make sure that your black paint is properly sealed so that it doesn’t chip or fade over time.

If you’re interested in a dramatic look, painting your walls black is a great option. Below we’ll walk you through how to use black paint for walls. If you live in the Boise, Idaho area, this is a great option for your home’s interior painting needs.  

1. The different shades of black paint available

There are a surprisingly wide range of shades of black paint available for you. Whether you’re looking for a deep, rich black or a light, airy black, there’s sure to be a shade that’s perfect for you. Some blacks lean towards blue or purple, while others have warm undertones of brown or red. And depending on the brand, some blacks can even have a sparkly finish. So if you’re looking to add a touch of darkness to your home, don’t be afraid to experiment with different shades of black paint until you find the perfect one for you.

2. How to use black paint in your home

Once you’ve found the perfect shade of black, it’s time to start thinking about how to use it in your home. If you’re looking for a dramatic look, painting an entire room black can be a great option. But if you want something more subtle, you could try painting just one wall black or using black paint as an accent color. Black paint can also be used to create a moody and atmospheric look in your home, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

3. How to seal black paint

Some black paints come with a seal already included, while others do not. If your black paint does not have a seal, you will need to add one yourself in order to protect the paint and keep it looking its best. There are a few different ways that you can seal black paint.

One option is to use clear polyurethane. This will provide a durable seal that will resist scratches and fading. Another option is to use resin-based sealers. These sealers will create a high-gloss finish that is perfect for accentuating the deep color of the black paint. Whichever sealer you choose, be sure to follow the instructions carefully in order to get the best results.

4. Different ways to decorate with black 

One of the best things about black paint is that it can be used in a variety of ways to create different looks. For example, black paint can be used to create a dramatic and elegant look in a room, or it can be used to add a touch of sophistication to your space. Here are some different ways to decorate with black paint:

  • Use black paint to create a focal point in a room. You can use it to highlight architectural features or to make a statement piece of furniture stand out.
  • Create an accent wall. An accent wall is a great way to add some visual interest to a room, and black paint is the perfect way to create one.
  • Use it to add some drama to a room. Black paint can be used on all four walls of a room to create a dramatic look, or it can be used on just one wall for a more subtle effect.
  • Line your shelves or cabinets. Black paint can be used to create a sharp and clean look on shelves or cabinets.

Whether you want to make a big impact or just add a little bit of intrigue, black wall paint is the perfect way to do it.

5. Black wall ideas for your home

It’s elegant, mysterious, and commanding. It evokes a sense of power and strength, making it the perfect choice for creating a dramatic statement in your home. Whether you use it to accentuate an existing feature or to create a completely new look, black paint is sure to add impact. When you’re selecting black paint for your home, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Firstly, consider the undertone of the black paint. If you want a truly black hue, look for a paint with a blue undertone. For a softer black shade, choose a black with a brown or green undertone. Secondly, think about the finish you want. A glossy finish will create a more sophisticated look, while a matte finish will give your black paint a more modern edge. Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment! Black paint is surprisingly versatile and can be used in many different ways. Get creative and see what works best for your space.

Conclusion on how to use black paint for walls

Using black paint for walls is a great way to add drama and sophistication to your home. When selecting black paint for your space, keep in mind the undertone of the paint and the finish you want to achieve. And don’t be afraid to experiment! With its versatile nature, black paint can be used in many different ways to create a variety of looks.

If you’re looking to add some black paint to your home, contact Boise Home Painting. We’ll work with you to select the perfect shade of black and help you create the look you’ve been dreaming of. Call us today for your free estimate! We serve the entire Boise area including Meridian and Eagle with interior and exterior painting!

 

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How to Use Black Ceiling Paint 

How To Use Black Ceiling Paint

Ceilings are often ignored or overlooked when it comes to their design potential. However, given the right dynamic for your space, a ceiling can become a beautiful architectural focal point. In this article, we’re going to learn how to use black ceiling paint to create a bold and dramatic effect for whatever your specific decorating style may be in your interior!

How to Use Black Ceiling Paint 

Homeowners spend countless hours determining just the right paint color for their walls, yet somehow the ceiling is often forgotten. Ceilings are typically painted some variation of white and aren’t really thought about again. But what if you thought of your ceiling as more of a fifth wall? Incorporating it into your design plan may add some much-needed personality to your space. So let’s explore the effect black paint can have on your ceiling when it’s appropriate, and what shades of black are currently trending. 

Can You Paint Ceilings Darker Than Walls? 

Your ceiling can play a large role in the overall feel of a room. Choosing a light or dark color can have a big impact on making the room appear more spacious and open or more intimate and small. So, once you’ve determined what look you’re going for you can choose light or dark accordingly. There certainly is no rule that states you shouldn’t paint your ceiling darker than your walls. Light walls can be a beautiful contrast to a dark ceiling, add dimension to your room, and really make the color of your walls stand out. 

  • Light Colors 

Light colors on your ceiling can make the space seem bigger. So if you’re working with a smaller, more cramped space, a light ceiling may be the way to go. 

  • Dark Colors 

Large rooms with tall ceilings can sometimes feel unbalanced. Paint color can help the height of the ceiling come down, tricking the eye into believing the room is smaller and more intimate. This creates a more cozy feel. Deep, dark colors like black, charcoal, navy, or chocolate on a ceiling tend to warm up the space. 

When You Should Use Black Ceiling Paint in a Home

Most of us have been conditioned to think that a ceiling should be white. However, after seeing the results of several ceilings where black paint was used, our opinion has changed on the matter. Now, we’ve come to believe that any room with black is unique and special. Below are just a few reasons to use black ceiling paint in your home: 

1. To make a ceiling look lower 

People always think that high ceilings are desirable. This may be true in some cases but oftentimes they can make a room feel disproportionate. Black paint on the ceiling can make it feel as if the ceiling has been lowered, bringing more balance to your space. 

2. To make a ceiling look higher 

Some walls are too high and others aren’t high enough. Painting your ceiling black can make it hard to distinguish the boundaries of the room, making the walls seem taller.

3. To add dramatic effect 

Black is definitely bold! You may have a very simple space but once you add black, you’ve added personality and flair that won’t go unnoticed.

4. To contrast with trim 

Black ceiling paint contrasted against bright white crown molding or millwork can be a winning and classic combination.

5. Because you have a teenager 

When your kids are little you put a lot of time and energy into creating a themed bedroom they will love. As they grow up and mature, they want something different entirely. A black ceiling goes well with almost any decor your teen may choose and can give off a sophisticated vibe.

When you should use black ceiling paint in a commercial setting

Black is bold, unique, and extremely functional when it comes to a commercial or retail space. A black ceiling can be welcoming, and improve overall appearance. 

Retail and commercial spaces often have the unsightly but necessary equipment in or along their ceilings. A coat of black paint can conceal wires, cameras, or other blemishes from view. Black can also draw customers’ eyes away from HVAC and lighting equipment to create a more professional look. A black ceiling can also be used to call attention to specific areas or items of focus in your store.

When Not to Use Black Ceiling Paint 

Because black is such a dark color, it isn’t always the easiest to work with. We all know how frustrating it is for dark paint to bleed through painter’s tape or leave flecks and drips in its wake. When working with black paint, always be prepared to drape drop clothes over light-colored carpets, window coverings, and furniture. Use high-quality painter’s tape and have wet rags on hand to catch any mistakes before they have a chance to dry.

Rooms with Black Ceilings 

In the past, black had a reputation for making a space appear gloomy and small. However, designers, as well as homeowners, are embracing the elegance and charm of the once misunderstood color. 

Painting your ceiling black can single-handedly define your rooms’ decorating style. There seems to be an element of mystery and intrigue associated with black tones. 

Black ceilings draw your eyes upward, creating the illusion that your walls are taller than they actually are. High ceilings have always been a selling point in the real estate world and are extremely coveted. When paired with lighter-toned walls, a black ceiling can make your room seem more spacious and large. 

How to Paint Basement Ceilings Black 

Many partially finished basement ceilings have ductwork or pipes that are left exposed. No one wants to stare at that for years to come. You could pay a small fortune for drywall. Or, you could simply apply a coat of black paint and watch the instant transformation. The black paint gives off an industrial vibe that can be fun and easy to build on. Complete the look with black blinds or window coverings as well as corrugated metal siding. Black paint can also work wonders when it comes to hiding basement ceiling stains. Over the years, water leaks can leave yellow or brown markings on your ceiling. Black paint will conceal any and all discoloration or blemishes you wish to cover up. 

How to Paint a Ceiling Black 

Painting your ceiling black will require the same technique, tools, and skill as using any other paint color. However, there are a few things to consider to secure a successful outcome. 

  • Pick the Proper Sheen

The lighting in the room and the condition of your ceiling will be the biggest determining factors in choosing a sheen. It’s most common to pick a lower, more muted sheen for ceilings. We recommend sticking with satin, eggshell, or matte finish for black ceilings. 

  • Dark Paint and Dry Time 

Dark paints are very finicky when it comes to roller marks and blending strokes. The trick is to work quickly. Once the edging has started to dry, it’ll be much more difficult to achieve a cohesive look with the main body of the ceiling. 

Black Ceiling Paint 

Just like white paint, black paint comes in countless different shades to consider. Depending on the furniture, decor, and lighting in the room, black can change its appearance because of the surrounding tones. It’s common for certain black tones to appear on the navy side and other black tones can look more gray. 

The key to discovering the right black for your project is to pay attention to the undertones. When you find the black tone of choice, simply check the other colors on the paint strip to make sure they are all in line with your vision. The paint color Midnight by Benjamin Moore is a decadent shade of black with a slightly green undertone that displays a sense of depth and intrigue. 

Another factor to consider when buying black ceiling paint is knowing which finish to go with. A high gloss finish adds an element of sophistication and glamor but isn’t the best choice for ceilings. The glossiness can create a shine that some consider distracting. Also, surfaces need to be blemish-free and smooth to look their best. Matte or flat finishes tend to soak up light instead of reflecting it, making it a nice finish for ceiling paint. A satin sheen meets high gloss and matte in the middle, creating a warm luster.

Black Ceiling Paint Design Ideas 

Some of you may still be unsure about the idea of painting your ceiling black. Don’t worry, black ceilings and other bold black design moves are currently all the rage. Here are a few of the rising trends utilizing black and other dark ceiling colors. 

-Accentuating Architectural Elements

If you happen to have defining architectural elements adorn your ceiling, black is a beautiful way to showcase them. Applying black paint will emphasize skylights, wooden beams, or crown molding.

-Black Ceiling with White Walls 

You simply can’t go wrong with a black and white classic. It really doesn’t matter what your decor style happens to be, this combo never fails. Whether you love contemporary, modern farmhouses, or desire a more glamorous look, black and white have you covered. Choose a soft white wall paint, white furniture, and accents to pair perfectly with your black ceiling paint. 

How to Use Black Ceiling Paint Conclusion 

Using black paint in any variation in your home is both risky and bold. If you’re open to the idea of being daring when it comes to paint, you should feel safe moving forward with black ceiling paint. However, if you have intricate beams, crown molding, or other details where your ceiling is concerned, we recommend you reach out to a professional painter. 

At Boise Home Painting, our team of experts are meticulous when it comes to details and it shows in our work. If you’re looking into a paint project involving black paint or have any other painting questions, we can help. Our design consultants, along with our painting professionals, go above and beyond other paint companies. Whether you’re looking to renovate your home or just give it a color update, new paint can change a lot! We serve the entire Boise area including Eagle, Caldwell, Nampa, and Meridian! Click here to get your free estimate!

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