Semi-gloss has a glossy and protective coating. So, can you use it over ceiling paint?
You can use semi-gloss over ceiling paint, but the surface must be smooth. That’s because semi-gloss has a reflective finish that will highlight and reveal any imperfections on the ceiling.
So, if the ceiling is rough, uneven, or dirty, it will show once the semi-gloss paint dries. So, you must repair these imperfections with a spackle compound and scuff it to provide a smooth and even surface for the paint to stick to.
Compatibility
Semi-gloss sticks over ceiling paint. That’s because ceiling paint is flat, has low moisture resistance, and has no sheen or additives that can repel the semi-gloss paint.
However, semi-gloss paint won’t stick over it if the ceiling paint or surface is filthy or in bad condition. That’s because dirt and moisture will prevent good paint adhesion. Also, if the surface is cracked or peeling, you must fix it before painting over it. Again, that’s because no paint will stick over a cracked surface.
In addition, if the ceiling paint is sealed with a topcoat (such as polyurethane), semi-gloss paint won’t stick over it. That’s because the sealant (or topcoat) has a glossy coating that prevents liquid (paint) from sticking or penetrating its surface. So, you must remove the topcoat first and then apply the paint.
Is Semi-Gloss Paint Good For Ceiling?
Generally, semi-gloss paint isn’t good for ceilings. That’s because the paint has a slow dry time, and you might experience paint drips. Also, it has a reflective finish (due to the high amount of sheen) and will highlight and reveal imperfections, scratches, and dents on the ceiling.
Also, since semi-gloss paint is oil-based and has a thick flow, it’s harder to apply than flat ceiling paint. The slow dry time and the hard paint application mean it will take you longer to complete this painting project.
However, there are a few advantages too. First, semi-gloss paint is moisture-resistant and will prevent moisture from affecting the ceiling, especially if there’s a water leak. Also, the glossy and reflective finish will give the surface a fancy look.
How To Paint Over Ceiling Paint With Semi-Gloss Paint?
Applying semi-gloss over ceiling paint is hard because you must properly prep the surface. But, this guide will show you exactly how to do that.
Here are the tools you need:
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Spackle or joint compound
- A paintbrush
- Clean rags
- A pair of gloves
- A ladder (Optional)
1. Check If The Ceiling Paint Is Dry
Before painting over it, the ceiling paint must be fully dry (cured). If it isn’t, the new paint won’t stick over it, and the entire finish will peel off.
To know if the paint is dry enough for a top coat, sand it with fine-grit sandpaper. If the sandpaper gets clogged, the paint isn’t dry enough. On the other hand, the paint is dry enough if the sandpaper moves freely over the coating.
On average, flat ceiling paint dries enough for a topcoat in 4 hours. That’s because the paint is water-based and has a flat sheen (no sheen or gloss in its formula).
2. Clean The Surface
The ceiling paint or surface must be clean and free of dust before painting over it. That’s because dust and filth will prevent the new paint from sticking and might bleed-through the finish.
To clean it, use a clean cloth or a soft brush. Don’t use too much water, as flat paints are water-soluble and can get washed off.
3. Fix Imperfections With Spackle Compound
If the ceiling has imperfections or is damaged, you must repair them before painting over it. That’s because semi-gloss has a reflective finish and will reveal and highlight all imperfections on the surface. This will make the finish look unprofessional.
To repair imperfections from a ceiling surface, use a spackle compound. Spackle compound, also known as joint compound, is a white powder made of gypsum and water. This power can be mixed and used to seal, cover, and repair any imperfections on a surface.
After using this compound, wait for it to dry (about 30 minutes) before using or painting it.
4. Sand The Paint
Sanding will remove imperfections, even (flat) out the surface, and create tiny ridges that allow the new paint to stick better. To sand ceiling paint, use fine-grit sandpaper. While sanding, pay more attention to the areas you used the spackling compound as it tends to dry unevenly.
After sanding, remove the dust from the surface by wiping it with a clean rag.
5. Apply The Semi-Gloss Paint
To apply semi-gloss paint, use a paintbrush. An angled paintbrush will help you reach tight corners on the surface. Since there are already a few coats of ceiling paint, you only need one coat of semi-gloss paint. If the ceiling is unfinished, apply two thin coats.
If you apply two or more coats, allow each coat to dry fully, sand them, and then apply the next coat. After applying the final coat, wait 24 hours for the paint to dry fully (cure) before cleaning or touching the surface.
The Color Won’t Change
A clear semi-gloss paint won’t change the color of the ceiling paint, but it can make it look brighter or deeper than it is. That’s because it has a refractive finish, and the paint color will seem more vibrant or colorful.
The color shade of the finish will also depend on the room light. If the room has wall light, lamps, or other light sources, then semi-gloss will be more reflective, and the finish will appear brighter than it is. Conversely, if the room has low lighting, the paint will be less reflective, making the ceiling paint underneath appear darker or deeper.
How Long Will it Last?
Semi-gloss paint can last over 10 years on a ceiling if properly maintained and cleaned regularly. That’s because ceilings are low-traffic areas, and semi-gloss is a moisture-resistant paint. This means the surface isn’t exposed to constant use, and the paint is durable enough to withstand moisture. Since nothing can damage or remove the paint, it will last longer.
However, two things can affect the durability of the paint; dirt and water. If you don’t clean the paint regularly, dirt and dust can ruin the finish. Also, the paint will eventually get washed off if there’s a water leak on the roof (near the ceiling).
Even though semi-gloss paint is water-resistant, the paint isn’t waterproof and can withstand moisture only for a short period. The paint will get washed off if exposed to constant water for several days or weeks. So, to make the paint last longer, clean it regularly, and if there’s a water leak near it, fix it immediately.
Final Words
In summary, you can apply semi-gloss over flat ceiling paint. But, the ceiling must be clean, sanded, and have no imperfections. That’s because semi-gloss paint is a reflective finish and will reveal and highlight imperfections on the surface.
