If a ceiling is higher than 10 feet, painting may be tricky using standard techniques. You can paint a ceiling by standing on the floor using a roller with an extension attached or with a ladder or scaffold. Keep in mind, using a roller extension gives less control over paint application but saves time and the logistical hassles of renting, buying or assembling ladders or scaffold.
Methods
Using a roller pole extension will add about 5 to 12 feet in height. Brush attachments eliminate constant ladder climbing and scaffold use. Pivot tools and adjustable poles, while more expensive, can save time. If adding the maximum 12-foot pole is not enough, use an extension ladder or scaffold. While scaffolding may be improvised with ladders and wood planks, it can be dangerous and cause serious injury if the materials move or break. Consider using a spray gun or hire a professional if the roller and brush technique is physically impractical.
Preparation
Wipe the ceiling with a dust mop wrapped in an old cotton rag or T-shirt. For a textured surface try a clean brush with light bristles or a compressed air machine. Eliminate all cobwebs. Remove or cover ceiling fixtures, window treatments, wall decorations and furniture.
If the walls will be painted the same color, do the ceiling first. Don't tape or cover the walls if they will be painted soon, regardless of color. Otherwise, run painter's tape along the top wall edges as precisely as possible. Affix light plastic sheeting to the walls using painter's tape if the walls will not be painted. Cover the floor with canvas or plastic. Newspaper will leave black marks on the floor if it gets stepped on or wet.
Getting Started
Whether standing on the floor or using a scaffold, begin painting in the corner opposite the door. Try to complete the project without any lengthy breaks in between to prevent obvious color changes in overlapping sections. Paint the ceiling edges around the room first with a 3- to 4-inch wide trim brush, dipping it from the can or poured into a roller tray. Refill the brush as paint becomes thin in application.
Dip the roller in the tray, coating evenly with paint. Starting in the same corner as before, move across the ceiling with the roller using a back and forth motion. Cover all areas evenly and replenish paint on the roller as needed.
Precautions
Paint will splatter. Use protection. Wear safety glasses to prevent paint in the eyes. Use a hat or skullcap to protect hair. Most latex paint will wash out fairly easily, but textured paint and enamel will not. Use a mask. The smell of fresh paint can be overpowering and may cause dizziness.
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