About Ceiling Paint
While there are no color rules for painting ceilings, go to any paint store and you'll see a shelf full of white ceiling paint, since this is the most common ceiling color. However, chances are that white isn't truly white. There are several differences between flat white ceiling paint and regular paint that aren't apparent until you use start painting, and reasons why it really is better to use ceiling paint on ceilings instead of on your walls.
Function
Since few people like painting ceilings more times than they need to, ceiling paint is formulated to hide well, covering grimy edges with one coat. It typically doesn't spatter very much, making It easier to work with overhead. Because glare from lights or sun coming through a window can be unsightly on a ceiling, the paint tends to be dead flat, with no reflective value. This also helps minimize roller marks and the appearance of surface irregularities, which would be more apparent if the ceiling paint had any sheen.
Features
The trade-off for being very flat and non-reflective means ceiling paint is typically not at all washable or durable. Typically this is not a problem since people rarely wash ceilings. It does mean that ceiling paint is not well suited for walls. Avoid the temptation to save money by buying the cheaper ceiling paint for other uses. Some companies manufacture ceiling paint that looks pale blue or pink in the bucket and while wet, but turns white as it dries. This makes it easier to see if you've missed any spots while painting. See the link below in Resources for Glidden color-changing ceiling paint.
Types
Oil-based paint used to be the standard type of paint for walls, ceilings and trim. Flat oil wall and ceiling paint is still available through some specialty paint stores, but most interior paint used today, for ceilings and elsewhere, is water based (latex). Compared with the old oil-based paints, latex paints are easy to use, dry faster and have lower odor. While ceiling paint is typically flat, some prefer a satin or semi gloss to match the walls in kitchens and bathrooms.
Misconceptions
White ceiling paint is not really white. Pure white paint does not hide very well and usually requires two or more coats of paint. Any paint formulated for ceilings has a little black or brown umber tint in it. This makes it more opaque. Although the paint will look white when it's on the ceiling, if you hold a pure white sheet of paper to it, you'll see that it is actually very pale gray.
Considerations
Although most paint sold as ceiling paint is white (or off-white), you can paint ceilings any color. A warmer beige or honey tone looks bright but has character, especially when paired with vibrant colored walls. Painting the ceiling a darker shade than the walls can be dramatic, especially on vaulted ceilings. While painting a sky blue ceiling with fluffy white clouds on it is a popular option, especially for children's bedrooms, doing a dramatic gold or faux paint effect can be stunning, especially in dining rooms or half baths. Wall paint can be used on any ceiling.
Expert Insight
When painting a ceiling, use an extension pole instead of working from a ladder. Not only is this safer, it is much easier on your neck and shoulders because you can stand behind and below the section you are painting and see what you're doing without craning your neck. If you don't want to buy an extension pole, a wooden broom handle will fit the threads on a roller handle just fine. Check Resources below for complete instructions on paint a ceiling.
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