TOP 15 best paints for ceilings: 2021 rating and which matte paint to choose for drywall

The choice of materials for repairs requires a responsible approach. By painting the ceiling with oil paint, you can get condensation and damage to the coating.

To prevent this from happening, our experts carefully studied all the nuances, analyzed the market, and made for you a selection of the best ceiling paints for 2021 in terms of price/quality ratio.

During the selection, the following parameters were taken into account: price-quality ratio, texture, paint composition and type of surface to be coated.

Rating of the TOP 15 best paints for ceilings in 2021

Tools and building materials for painting drywall

To paint a gypsum board ceiling surface, you will need:

• a roller with short fur pile, preferably with a long handle, since the foam tool forms air bubbles on the surface to be painted;
• plastic tray for coloring composition;
• a paint brush used for painting hard-to-reach places on the ceiling;

• water-based paint;
• color scheme to create the desired shade, which allows you to paint the ceiling in any color and thereby make the interior original;
• deep penetration acrylic primer.

In addition, you need to prepare a set of work clothes and a hat so as not to get dirty with paint.

How to choose ceiling paint?

First of all, you need to determine the type of surface and compliance with the style of the room. A glossy finish is perfect for a small room; it visually expands the space.

The main disadvantage of gloss is that it can only be applied to a perfectly smooth base, otherwise it will highlight all the imperfections.

Matte shades add depth and discreet nobility, and when applied to a rough surface, they will help to delicately hide imperfections.

The semi-matte coating is universal and has no restrictions on use.

You also need to pay attention to such characteristics as:

• Drying time;
• Paint consumption;
• Resistance to dry abrasion and wet cleaning;
• Vapor permeability;
• Strength.

Another important criterion is the type of room.

So, in the kitchen and bathroom you need to use durable, dirt-repellent coatings that allow steam to pass through well. Latex and acrylic paints have these qualities. And for the bedroom, a light water-based coating is quite suitable, which can be updated at any time.

Technology for painting plasterboard ceilings

Compliance with technology at each stage of painting the ceiling is the key to the quality of the final product.

Let's consider the main stages of painting a plasterboard ceiling:

• Before uncorking, the can of paint must be mixed.
• The ceiling should be painted from hard-to-reach areas, namely from the places where it adjoins the walls, using a brush. The paint should be applied using tapping movements to avoid streaks.
• Next, you need to dip the roller in a bath of paint, roll it out on a ribbed surface, removing excess paint from the roller, and apply the first layer to the ceiling, while it is important to extend up to 15 cm on each subsequent strip.
• After the first layer has dried, you should begin applying a second layer of paint, perpendicular to the first, which will give uniformity to the coating and make the ceiling visually perfectly smooth.

As you can see, the technology for painting the ceiling is quite simple. It is important to comply with all the basic requirements of the preparatory period before painting, the painting technology itself, choose the right quality paint, and the durability of the ceiling in your room is ensured.

TOP 3 best paints for ceilings by price/quality for 2021

Marshall Maestro White Ceiling Luxury

Acrylic water-dispersion paint of rich white color, has a matte finish.

Designed for dry or moderately damp rooms.

Shows good results on mineral bases: concrete, brickwork, plaster.

Thanks to its good hiding power, it helps to hide minor roughness and surface defects.

Users note the ease of application - the composition does not splash, does not streak and dries quickly.

A month after application, the paint reaches its maximum characteristics. The coating can be safely cleaned both dry and wet.

Acrylic film protects the treated areas from destruction, allows air to pass through well and prevents the formation of condensation.

The coating is non-toxic and does not harm health. Diluted with water in a ratio of no more than 1:10. Another advantage of the composition is its relatively low cost, compared to paints with similar properties.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 4 hours;
2. Type of coating – covering;
3. Maximum flow rate – 9 l/m²;
4. Type – styrene-acrylic dispersion;
5. Texture – matte;
6. Thinner – water;

pros

• Uniform coloring;
• Deep white color;
• Dries quickly;
• Does not have a pungent odor;
• Hides small irregularities;

Minuses

• It needs to be applied in several layers.

Dulux 3D White

Acrylic paint with the addition of fine marble particles and a special optical brightener, which are used to create dazzling whiteness.

It has a good dispersion coefficient, visually expanding the space and adding depth. It is used not only for ceiling decoration, but also for covering walls, including painting wallpaper.

Designed for painting rooms with moderate humidity: bedrooms, living rooms, hallways . Certified for children's use. The paint is easily pigmented in pastel shades. To create a uniform shade, we recommend using the computer tinting function.

Absence of a specific odor, quick drying, comfortable application and coverage in two layers - these are the criteria for which Dulux is often chosen by professionals.

The treated ceiling can be cared for using soft surfactants; the composition has sufficient resistance to wet abrasion.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 4 hours;
2. Coating – covering;
3. Possibility of tinting – yes;
4. Texture – matte;
5. Maximum flow rate – 13 l/m²;
6. Eco-label – yes;

pros

• Pure white shade;
• Drying speed;
• Easy to clean;
• High hiding power;

Minuses

• Not detected.

Tikkurila Euro White

Products from the Finnish manufacturer are in great demand on the Russian market . All

The Tikkurila paint line is certified environmentally safe and has no unpleasant odor or critical components.

When developing the Euro White composition, the technology of adding microspheres was used, making the coating perfectly smooth and non-glare.

Good hiding power allows you to achieve a high-quality result in one layer. A matte finish will hide minor surface imperfections and emphasize a discreet style.

The paint is intended for interior work and various types of substrate . Before application, it is recommended to prime the surface to improve adhesion. The paint adheres well and is economically used due to its thickness.

It does not splash during operation and dries quickly at room temperature. The coating is strong, smooth and durable.

Cleaning can be done using dry or slightly damp rags . The only disadvantage of this paint is that it is not always available for purchase in retail stores.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 2 hours;
2. Gloss level – matte;
3. Coating – covering;
4. Consumption – from 7 to 12 l/m²;
5. Type – water-dispersion;

pros

• Perfect white;
• Dries quickly;
• Hides surface defects;
• Does not have a pungent odor;

Minuses

• Difficult to find on sale.

What won't work

The first thing you need to find out about painting gypsum plasterboard structures is which paints are not suitable for such operations. This is necessary so that later you don’t have to be disappointed in the results of your work and don’t have to redo everything all over again.

All oil-based formulations are absolutely not suitable. They are very short-lived, create a surface that does not allow air to pass through, and, in addition, have a rather unpleasant odor that does not disappear for a long time. At the same time, this mixture does not “lay down” very well either, and after a short time it begins to turn yellow.

Whitewashing with lime or chalk can also be omitted. They are good for concrete floors and not very suitable for drywall, since the solutions are quite liquid, and gypsum board has strong absorption, except for moisture-resistant types of sheets. At the same time, whitewashing will not be able to hide any defects or irregularities, and such a coating looks average.

TOP 3 best matte paints for ceilings

Dulux Brilliant White Washable Matt

The TOP of matte paints in 2021 opens with paint from the Dulux brand . The composition has a matte

texture, does not glare and visually expands the space. Great for small rooms with moderate humidity levels.

The recipe contains particles of natural marble, due to which the paint reflects light more strongly and visually conceals small irregularities and roughness of the substrate.

The rich white color is resistant to aging and yellowing; this coating has a service life of up to 15 years.

As users note, the paint is quite expensive, but the price is fully justified by the quality. The paint spreads easily, lays flat, does not flow, and does not leave marks from the tool.

Dries completely in 4 hours . It is most convenient to apply the composition using a roller.

Another advantage of the paint is its high resistance to wet abrasion; the ceiling can be washed using detergents.

Unfortunately, the paint cannot be tinted and is available in only one color.

Characteristics:

1. Type of coating – covering;
2. Maximum flow rate – 13 l/m²;
3. Eco-label – yes;
4. Drying time – 4 hours;
5. Thinner – water;

pros

• Does not turn yellow over time;
• Applies evenly and leaves no streaks;
• Thick, does not splash;
• Neutral odor;

Minuses

• The cost is above average.

Tikkurila Euro Power 7 (Base A)

Latex water-dispersion paint from Tikkurila . Mainly used indoors

with normal or high humidity. The paint stretches well and perfectly masks small cracks and irregularities.

Suitable for all types of surfaces . Due to the fact that the coating does not crack, it is a good choice for new buildings that shrink over time. Allows tinting in pastel colors.

The coating is abrasion-resistant and can be washed with mild detergents or soapy water. Permeable to water vapor and UV resistant.

The product is economical to use and dries quickly . It is eco-labeled and safe for allergy sufferers and children.

The treated surface looks great: rich, even color, no bald spots, streaks or streaks.

But, despite all the advantages, it is worth noting that when using paint in damp rooms, the surface must additionally be treated with an antifungicidal compound that prevents the appearance of mold.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 2 hours;
2. Consumption – from 7 to 12 l/m²;
3. Coating – covering;
4. Tinted - yes;
5. Type – water-dispersion;

pros

• Can be washed;
• High drying speed;
• Fits well;
• There is no pungent odor;

Minuses

• Average hiding power.

TEX for ceiling super white Profi matte

Excellent budget paint from a domestic brand . The composition is easily tinted by hand,

the brand has a rich palette of pigments.

The paint is intended for rooms with normal humidity levels and is applied to dry, prepared surfaces.

An ideal white color can be achieved when applied in several layers, the consumption and density of the composition are average, which is fully compensated by the low price and large packaging volumes.

It has a record-breaking drying time of only 0.6 hours.

The composition is diluted with water and does not have an unpleasant odor during painting and after drying. Reaches maximum properties 4 weeks after application. Resistant to dry abrasion.

The room with TEX painted ceilings looks bright and spacious. The coating diffuses light well and adds volume .

The paint is widely available and can be easily found at your local store.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 0.6 hours;
2. Consumption – from 9 to 12 l/m²;
3. Coating – covering;
4. Thinner – water;
5. Pigmented - yes;

pros

• Low cost;
• Snow White;
• Large volume;
• Lays down evenly;
• Dries quickly;

Minuses

• Big expense.

Main types of paints

World-famous paint manufacturers present a wide range of products, and each room owner can choose the optimal composition for their needs. Depending on the purpose, operating characteristics, application technology and other criteria, paint for ceilings and walls comes in the following types:

• Water-dispersed. The most common type for interior work. Paint consists of pigments, an aqueous solution and chemical additives based on various polymers.

Rice. 4. Water-dispersed

• Water-based. The simplest type of paint, which is not recommended for use in a damp environment, since if wet, the layer can be destroyed.

Rice. 5. Water-based

• Silicone. This type of coating is a type of water-dispersed materials with silicone resins. It is an environmentally friendly substance that does not cause allergic reactions and is safe for health.

Rice. 6. Silicone

• Acrylic. Polyacrylates, which form the basis of these pigment compositions, are resistant to mechanical stress, do not fade in the sun and are not afraid of moisture. Recommended for use in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, indoor pools and other areas with high humidity.

Rice. 7. Acrylic

• Latex. The composition has been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years due to its performance characteristics. The film-forming substance is capable of stretching, which is why the paint does not collapse due to temperature changes or when the floor slabs move.

Rice. 8. Latex

Depending on the type of composition, as well as its physical and mechanical properties, the price may differ several times. Therefore, experts recommend using different materials for rooms, kitchens and bathrooms.

TOP 3 best water-based paints for ceilings

Dulux Bindo 2

Deep matte latex coating with improved thixotropic properties.

The paint applies perfectly evenly and leaves no drips or streaks. It is often chosen by professionals for finishing work.

Apply using a roller or spray gun.

Water acts as a solvent . Suitable for different types of surfaces: plaster, drywall, concrete. The composition is designed for dry rooms. There are packaging options of 4.5 and 9 kg.

Has good hiding power: perfect white color is achieved when applied in two layers.

One layer dries in just an hour, and the composition dries completely in 4 hours. The matte finish looks very noble and accentuates any interior.

The paint is suitable for children's rooms and medical institutions, and has virtually no odor.

Durable, resistant to temperature inversions, resistant to abrasion. It is an excellent solution for bedrooms and living rooms.

Characteristics:

1. Type of coating – covering;
2. Maximum flow rate – 11 l/m²;
3. Thinner – water;
4. Drying time – 4 hours;

pros

• Economical consumption;
• Easily washed off the instrument;
• Good hiding power;
• Easy to apply;
• Dazzling white;

Minuses

• Not detected.

TEX interior station wagon

This paint is truly a universal solution for large repairs . Suitable for both ceilings and walls, it has two tinting options: pastes or paint.

Buyers note good covering properties, ease of application and smoothness of the coating.

Large volume and relatively inexpensive cost are the undoubted advantages of the paint.

After complete drying, it forms a vapor-permeable, washable film, making it suitable for the kitchen..

Prevents metal corrosion when applied to concrete floors. When cleaning, the treated surface can be wiped with a damp sponge using non-aggressive compounds.

Paint consumption is average and depends on the type of substrate.

Available in different volumes from 1.5 to 40 kg. Most often used for mineral surfaces, wood, wallpaper. The composition is certified for children's rooms and medical institutions.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 1.5 hours;
2. Consumption – from 5 to 8 l/m²;
3. Coating – covering;
4. Possibility of tinting – yes;
5. Thinner – water;

pros

• Inexpensive;
• Good covering qualities;
• Easily tinted;
• Doesn't smell;

Minuses

• Splashing may occur during application.

FINNCOLOR Oasis Interior Plus

The paint is produced in Russia and is widely distributed on the domestic market..

When applied, it forms a deep-matte snow-white coating with a pleasant velvety finish that will fit perfectly into your interior. Can be used either independently or as a base.

The Tikkurila brand has a rich color palette for pigmentation of the composition . Tinting is done using computer tone selection.

Paint consumption is quite small and depends on the topography of the surface being treated. The composition is intended for dry rooms and has an environmental certificate.

The smell when applied is light, unobtrusive, each layer dries in about 1.5 hours.

The coverage is excellent; when applied, the composition does not flow, lays down evenly, and does not leave streaks. The downside is that it is not resistant to wet abrasion, but this coating does not require wet cleaning.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 2 hours;
2. Consumption – from 6 to 11 l/m²;
3. Tinted - yes;
4. Type of coating – covering;
5. Thinner – water;

pros

• Snow-white;
• Opaque;
• Inexpensive;
• Non-toxic;

Minuses

• Not resistant to moisture.

TOP 3 best latex paints for ceilings

TEX for the ceiling Station wagon

Is the best budget solution . High quality, good covering qualities and

A reasonable price is the main criteria for this paint to get into the TOP.

The bright white coating refreshes the interior, giving it lightness and airiness.

When applied, the composition forms a durable film that is resistant to temperature fluctuations, moisture and ultraviolet radiation..

Suitable for most types of surfaces. Possessing high hiding power, it hides minor defects in the substrate and is suitable for covering old paint. The paint is water-permeable and prevents condensation.

Used for painting ceilings in kitchens and bathrooms.

Manual tinting is possible. When applied in two layers, an even, perfect coating is created without drips, spattering or streaks.

The time required for complete drying is only 1.5 hours. Does not require ventilation and has no specific odor.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 1.5 hours;
2. Consumption – from 4 to 7 l/m²;
3. Coating – covering;
4. Texture: matte;
5. Tinted - yes;
6. Thinner – water;

pros

• Affordable price;
• Dries quickly;
• Does not have a pungent odor;
• Applies evenly;

Minuses

• Average covering qualities.

Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex

This paint is the most durable in the market: the manufacturer promises color preservation for 20 years from the date of application.

This is achieved through the use of special technologies in the production of SuperPaint. The paint is latex vinyl-acrylic and is available in matte and semi-matte options.

Sherwin-Williams has eco-labels and certificates of conformity, suitable for use in various types of institutions, including medical.

The composition is suitable for any type of surface. Before application, the substrate must be leveled with a primer.

The paint does not require preliminary dilution and is easy to apply. The consumption is low due to the high covering qualities: dense coverage is achieved by applying just one layer.

After drying, the paint forms a film that is highly permeable to water vapor..

You can clean the ceiling using non-abrasive agents and mild surfactants. The only disadvantage of paint is its high cost, but it is fully paid for due to the durability of the composition.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 4 hours;
2. Gloss level – matte;
3. Consumption – from 8.6 to 9.8 l/m²;
4. Coating – covering;
5. The base is water;

pros

• Durable;
• Excellent hiding power;
• Low consumption;
• Can be washed;
• Does not fade;
• Safe for health;

Minuses

• High price.

Dulux Ultra Resist

Ideal solution for kitchen and bathroom . Thanks to the special composition with the addition

Wax paint creates a film that effectively repels drops of grease and dirt from the surface.

But that's not all: the formulation includes additives to protect against the appearance of fungi and algae, and also easily allows water vapor to pass through.

The paint is resistant to cracking, scratching, cracking, and will last much longer than usual..

The coating is resistant to washing with cleaning agents. The composition is available in matte and semi-matte gloss levels. Has a “Leaf of Life” certificate.

Application is very comfortable, the paint does not flow, adheres well and is leveled.

It has virtually no odor and dries completely in 6 hours. It has 7 basic shades and another 200 are available when ordering tinting. Surfaces coated with Ultra Resist will serve you for a long time and will delight you with their excellent performance characteristics.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 6 hours;
2. Maximum flow rate – 15 l/m²;
3. Type of coating – covering;
4. Tinted - yes;
5. Thinner – water;

pros

• Durable;
• Easy to clean;
• Good hiding power;
• Smooth coating;
• Dries quickly;

Minuses

• Thick.

TOP 3 best paints for ceilings on plasterboard

Tikkurila Euro Smart 2

Water-dispersed latex paint for smooth, prepared surfaces.

Designed for interior finishing of dry rooms.

It has low consumption, excellent painting characteristics, and is wash-resistant due to the addition of an acrylic component.

Users note the high durability and thickness of the composition, so you need to distribute the paint over the surface as quickly as possible.

Lays down evenly and provides good smooth coverage. It is possible to order computer tinting. It has a completely matte finish, visually making the ceilings higher.

Water is used as a solvent . Apply using a roller, brush or spray gun.

Dries completely in 2 hours. Does not have a pungent odor. Certified for children's rooms and medical institutions.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 2 hours;
2. Consumption – from 7 to 12 l/m²;
3. Coating – covering;
4. Possibility of tinting – yes;
5. Environmentally friendly - yes;

pros

• Good covering properties;
• Decent price/quality ratio;
• Dries quickly;
• Easy to apply;

Minuses

• Requires a flat surface for application.

Halo For ceilings

Domestic interior paint with excellent performance characteristics.

Suitable for application on smooth, porous surfaces in rooms with normal humidity levels.

Forms a breathable matte film with high resistance to dry abrasion.

Water comes in as a solvent . A good result without bald spots is achieved by applying paint in two layers. It lays down evenly, spreads easily and dries fairly quickly.

The coating masks minor defects and refreshes the room . It has economical consumption – from 125 g/m². Available in volumes from 1.5 to 40 kg. There is no unpleasant odor.

Easily pigmented by hand using paste or VD colorant.

Buyers especially note the high hiding power, cost-effectiveness and availability of paint.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 24 hours;
2. Minimum consumption – 125 g/m²;
3. Tinted - yes;
4. Texture – matte;

pros

• Price;
• Lays down evenly;
• No pungent odor;
• Snow-white;

Minuses

• Sprays when applied.

FINNCOLOR Oasis Hall&Office

The rating is closed by water-dispersion paint from a Russian manufacturer.

Designed for dry and moderately damp rooms.

Can be used for commercial purposes: painting walls and ceilings in restaurants, schools, kindergartens.

Available in two types: dense base A and colorable base C. The color palette is available from the manufacturer Tikkurila.

The composition provides a dense, matte finish with high wear resistance. Retains its original appearance for a long time, has no odor, and is safe for health. When applied, it does not flow, lays down evenly, and does not leave streaks.

Consumption is average and depends on the topography of the substrate . For an ideal coating, you need to apply 2-3 layers, with a time interval of at least 1.5 hours. A pleasant bonus is the relatively low cost of the paint.

Characteristics:

1. Drying time – 2 hours;
2. Consumption – from 5 to 11 l/m²;
3. Type of coating – covering;
4. Possibility of tinting – yes;
5. Thinner – water;

pros

• Can be washed;
• Drying speed;
• There is no pungent odor;
• Can be colourised;
• Applies evenly;

Minuses

• Average covering properties.

Methods of painting the ceiling

Having chosen the appropriate paint, prepared the ceiling surface, covered the floor, walls, radiators, furniture with film or other materials, you can begin painting. You can paint the ceiling using several methods: using a roller, brush, or spray. Each of the above methods has its own advantages and disadvantages. The quality of the work performed depends on the tool used.

Anyone can paint with a brush. Before starting work, the paint brush should be cleaned of dust. To improve the plasticity of the bristles, experienced painters recommend immersing them in water for one hour. In addition, this procedure allows you to prevent the bristles from falling out during the application of dyes to the ceiling surface.

When starting to paint, the brush should be dipped in the paint and varnish composition, after which it is necessary to remove excess coloring matter from it by squeezing it against the walls of a jar or other selected container. When applying paint to the ceiling, the tool must be held perpendicular to the surface or at a slight angle, paint carefully, smoothly moving your hand back and forth.

Roller

As already noted, the final result depends on the type of tool used. Although you can paint with a brush, it is best suited for applying the composition to bevels and wall joints; it is convenient to paint over recesses. It is better to use a roller to paint the ceiling surface. It allows you to paint large areas and covers the surface to be painted to a greater extent.

There are several varieties of this tool, which differ in the material used as a working surface: foam rubber, plush, terry, sheepskin, with reinforced pile. The first of the listed types are very cheap, but when using foam rubber you should be prepared for excessive waste of paint and poor-quality results (the appearance of blisters on the surface).

Plush and terry models are also budget options. They are not durable. The texture of the coating directly depends on the length of the pile. Rollers with a working surface made of natural sheepskin wool are of the highest quality. They are used to work with any type of paint, provide a uniform, uniform coating, and allow you to use the composition economically.

Spray gun

The painting tools market offers a wide selection of spray guns that differ in appearance and design. This device provides the best painting result, but it is not recommended for use in small spaces or for painting surfaces with complex configurations. When using such a tool, you should take care of personal protective equipment (respirator, safety glasses).

Spray guns or other machines are best used for painting large spaces. It significantly increases labor productivity and allows you to distribute the paint on the ceiling in a thin, even layer. No streaks form on the surface, and if hanging drops do appear, they can be easily cleaned with a sponge. Unlike a roller and brush, a spray gun can significantly reduce material consumption, which reduces the final cost of painting.

To use the device you will need certain skills to work with it. Initially, it is necessary to filter the paint and use a solvent to dilute the coloring matter to a working viscosity. It’s better not to hit the ceiling with your first serve. It is recommended to move the spray nozzle to the side and adjust the spray evenly so as not to spoil the final desired result.

Which company should you choose?

To obtain a predictable and durable result, it is better to give preference to proven manufacturers with many years of experience.

Here are some of them:

• Tikkurila is a brand of Finnish paint and varnish products. The manufacturer guarantees the safety and reliability of the compositions, as well as the long service life of the coating. The official website presents a rich color palette with about 200 items;
• Dulux is an international brand that produces premium products. The company annually updates its catalog of current shades and keeps up with the times;
• Sherwin-Williams is an American company, one of the few that independently produces pigments for its paints. All products undergo strict selection and do not cause harm to health;
• TEX is a domestic paint that has a reasonable price and high quality. Available for purchase at almost any hardware store, presented in a wide range;
• FINNCOLOR is one of the branches of the Tikkurila brand. They are distinguished by attractive prices and famous Finnish quality. They have production in Russia.

Why do you need to paint the ceiling?

Paint provides a durable coating
Painting is the least expensive way to decorate a room in terms of finances and effort.

Other benefits:

• durable coating, does not fade, does not wear off, and will not suffer much if the neighbors above flood;
• the finishing can be completely or partially replaced in a short period of time;
• visual smoothing of irregularities;
• quick results with minimal effort;
• wide range of shades and textures.

Painting does not reduce the usable area of ​​the room and does not require special skills or equipment. Painted surfaces are easy to clean.