A ceiling with depths and multiple layers, however, doesn’t necessarily mean an easier project when painting than a flat ceiling. The selection of paint colors, preparation of areas, and sequence of painting are considerations.
So if you’re asking yourself how to paint a tray ceiling, the trick is to treat each one of the sections as separate surfaces, but don’t lose sight of the overall color scheme. A subtle variation or a dramatic contrast, with a bit of forethought and organization, you can achieve a flawless paint job.
What Is a Tray Ceiling?
A tray ceiling is a type of ceiling construction that refers to a design where the main ceiling area is higher than the outer edges of the room. The elevated or stepped part of the ceiling is also called a “tray”. If the ceiling construction incorporates two or more levels of ceiling sections, this is called a double, triple, or even multi-tray ceiling.
A tray ceiling also offers a larger color selection than a typical ceiling. Select one hue over the whole ceiling for a snazzy look or use a selection of hues to highlight the ceiling’s design.
Choosing Paint Ideas for Tray Ceilings
One of the main benefits of having a tray ceiling is the flexibility you get. Rather than viewing the ceiling as just a huge plain area, colors can be used to bring out its form and also to link it more to the overall room. Browse paint ideas for tray ceilings.
Other areas of the room – wall color, flooring, cabinetry, lighting, and furnishings – can influence how good the color looks. When you view a color on a little sample, it may seem mild, but on a large patch of ceiling it might feel significantly more intense.
Keep the Ceiling Light and Subtle
Soft neutrals (white, cream and beige) and subtle neutral colors, when combined, produce a bright, open, lush quality. It’s fabulous when you intend to use a comprehensive room feature with a quiet rather than loud color scheme.
You can also repeat the same color neutrals in a variety of places. Here’s another one we like: a neutral that isn’t a jarring contrast but adds depth. Use the same neutral wherever you have it. This could be a white wall with something a little warmer/cream/yellow, like a pale beige, or a cooler grey.
A light, subtle ceiling like this can be used in the bedroom, living room, dining room, and other rooms with a relaxed atmosphere.
Understanding Tray Ceiling Paint Schemes
Tray Ceiling Painting Plans: Not one size fits all. Which tray ceiling painting plan is suitable for you? When it comes to tray ceiling painting, giving attention to the details makes all the difference when choosing a scheme.
Details, reflections, and even floors can also create a subtle contrast. For example, you could pair a central ceiling in very pale gray with a whitewashed light gray recessed zone. Or, for more contrast, use a white ceiling with bright color in the accents.
Or you could select a tray that matches a room accent. To create a subtle, well-matched tray, complement the room’s blue upholstery or a green painting or the warm tone of wood floors with a matching ceiling color.
Painting Tray Ceilings: What Order Should You Follow?
It can be helpful to know what order you paint each section in so that you don’t end up accidentally painting over parts you didn’t intend to.
Begin on the ceiling top/middle section. If you’re comfortable with a roller on an extension pole, roll it on; otherwise, work in with the brush, cut in with an angled brush at edges and corners, and work in manageable sections. Roll on the paint in thin coats to keep a wet edge with no lap marks.
Once the majority of the ceiling is completed and allowed to cure to the proper stage, go to the shallow, indented space or bottom border part. Keep the border clear with painter’s tape. Press painter’s tape down tightly at the edge before you paint, then peel it up while the paint is still wet, in accordance with the paint manufacturer.
Whether it is front trim or crown molding, decide if it needs to match something else in the room: the ceiling, the wall, or anything else. Clean, crisp trim is an amazing finishing feature!
How to Choose the Right Tray Ceiling Paint
It’s not just color that must be considered when choosing the perfect tray ceiling paint. Proper finish with a good product can make your ceiling painting just perfect.
Check that the paint is for ceilings and that it will cover the surface. The cheapest on the market may not be the best value for money if it needs many additional coats to get the coverage needed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Painting a Tray Ceiling
The problem occurs at the corners when paint gets built up. Since it forms a thick paint line on a corner edge, it is possible that ridges will form, which can clearly be seen when connecting with colors. The brush should be used gently while applying it, and make sure that brush strokes are uniform.
Uneven coverage is sometimes hard to see in low light. Do whatever you can to inspect the work in good lighting as soon as possible.
And last but not least, don’t pick colors because they look nice on a tiny strip of paint. Play with the colors in your environment and watch how they change during the day.
Should You Paint a Tray Ceiling Yourself or Hire a Professional?
If you are not afraid of heights and are a fan of primer, a tray ceiling might be for you. If you don’t mind the added time involved with painting the “bigger” edges of each level, you should be able to tackle this job. Just remember that each tier requires its own coat of paint.
A professional gives you expert advice with your color selection, preparation, precise edgings, and coverage. This is especially helpful if the tray has many levels, high ceilings, ornate mouldings, or a complex color scheme.
A good painting contractor offers quality craftsmanship, the highest quality items, as well as the most effective strategies to make sure your home looks amazing.
Final Thoughts
How do you paint a tray ceiling? As you learn to paint a tray ceiling, each section of the ceiling needs to be balanced. With the right plan, the blending of shades, the paint, as well as the step of applying it, will convert a boring ceiling into a fascinating part of the room.
Lastly, look at your ceiling for contrast with your walls, furniture, light fixtures, and décor. If you have no eye for color and would rather leave the prep and painting to someone else, then call to SD Custom Painting.
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FAQs
Should I use painter’s tape to paint a tray ceiling?
Yes, mask the surface with painter’s tape. Another situation where you may want to use tape is when two different colors of paint go along a straight line, such as the intersection of two walls. With painter’s tape, you can help create a sharp line, but many pros do just fine with good paintbrush skills.
Does a dark color on a tray ceiling make it look lower?
So do darker colors visually lower ceilings? If you are going to go dark on the ceiling, paint a darker color over the entire surface of the ceiling and it will appear a little more contained or lowered, which is sometimes a good thing if you want a cozy and/or moody space.
