Repaint A Tin Ceiling With Copper Paint

Copper paint changes a tin ceiling from old-fashioned to elegant.

Tin ceilings add a charming architectural touch to any room. With age, however, tin can begin to look dull and dingy. To counteract the natural effects of time, you can cover your ceiling tiles with a fresh coat of paint. Copper paint maintains the elegance of metal and also offers a hint of warmth. To make sure that the paint on your tin ceiling doesn't chip and peel, begin by applying a primer specially formulated for metal surfaces.

Instructions

1. Dust around the edge of the ceiling and near any light fixtures, using a feather duster. Use a ladder to reach the ceiling, if necessary.

2. Place a strip of tape along the top of the walls. Tape around the base of any hanging lamps.

3. Line the floor with a layer of drop cloths. If possible, use canvas drop cloths, which are less slippery than plastic versions.

4. Stand on a ladder to paint a strip of primer along the edge of the ceiling, using an angled brush. Avoid getting too much primer on the tape, or the primer might bleed underneath. Paint around light fixtures with your brush.

5. Roll the primer over the rest of the ceiling. You may need to use your brush to distribute the primer if the tin ceiling is heavily textured. You could also switch to a roller sleeve with a thicker nap.

6. Wait as long as the manufacturer of the primer recommends before coating the ceiling with copper paint. Paint bonds to primer better if you don't wait too long, though.

7. Work with another person to apply the copper paint, if possible. Each person should have her own ladder.

8. Apply the paint in areas of approximately 4 feet by 4 feet. Apply paint to the edges and other tight spots, using a brush. Roll out the rest of the square with a paint roller.

9. Dab the wet metallic paint with a soft ball of cheesecloth. This erases roller marks and leaves the ceiling with a soft, even sheen.

10. Apply the next section of paint while the edges of your last section are still wet. Painters refer to this as "leaving a wet edge." This prevents visible drying lines. Continue working until the whole ceiling is done.

11. Remove the tape. Paint any touch-ups with a small artist's brush.

Tags: Apply paint, brush Roll, ceiling with, copper paint, Copper paint, drop cloths