Quick Summary
Eggshell paint is a popular choice for walls in homes but some debate whether it should be used on ceilings. The key factors to consider are:
– Eggshell has a soft, velvety finish that hides imperfections well, making it a good ceiling paint. However, some find it shows more flaws than flatter sheens.
– It reflects more light than flat/matte paints, helping brighten up rooms. But the light reflection can highlight uneven textures.
– Eggshell is durable and washable, protecting ceilings from dirt, grime and condensation. Though some find it stains more easily than flat paint.
– It’s less prone to flashing on ceilings than semi-gloss or gloss paints. But at certain angles, eggshell may still show lap marks and roller stipple.
– Eggshell dries to a uniform finish, whereas flat can dry to variances. But any imperfections in the eggshell surface are more apparent.
So eggshell is often suitable for ceilings, but those wanting to hide flaws may prefer flat/matte paint. Testing samples before fully painting a ceiling can resolve the debate over which sheen looks best.
What is Eggshell Paint?
Eggshell is one of the most common sheens of interior house paint, alongside flat, satin, semi-gloss and high-gloss. Its name comes from its finish resembling the surface of an eggshell – smooth and velvety but not completely matte.
The exact formulation varies between brands and product lines. But in general, eggshell paint contains more binders and resins than flat paint, making it less porous and giving an increased light reflection. Eggshell sheen levels typically sit around 10-25% on a 60° gloss meter.
This finish provides some key advantages compared to very matte paints:
– Reflects more light for added brightness
– Hides surface flaws and imperfections well
– Highly scrubbable and washable
– Provides added durability and stain resistance
These benefits make eggshell a versatile choice suitable for walls and ceilings in most rooms of a house. The soft, velvety texture is appealing and the reflectivity brightens up spaces without being too bold like a semi-gloss.
The compromise is that eggshell is not completely matte like flat/flat paint. At certain angles, imperfections in the paint surface are more visible. Flashing can also occur in problematic lighting conditions or when applying darker colors.
Is Eggshell Good for Ceilings?
Whether eggshell paint works well on ceilings is a matter of debate. Here are the key considerations when using eggshell paint on ceilings:
Hides Surface Flaws
One of the main benefits of eggshell paint is its ability to hide minor to moderate imperfections, cracks and flaws in ceiling surfaces. The velvety texture helps mask uneven drywall seams, nail holes and bumps better than very flat paints. For popcorn ceilings, eggshell can disguise the rough texture nicely.
This makes eggshell a practical choice for disguising old or damaged ceilings. The finish fills in pores and requires fewer coats for good coverage compared to flat paint.
However, eggshell’s surface still has enough sheen that it may accentuate flaws in certain lighting. Severe water stains, cracking, patches and heavy textures show through eggshell more than matte flat paint.
Reflects Light Well
Eggshell’s slight sheen gives it good light reflectance properties. Ceilings painted in eggshell will distribute and reflect light better than flat paint, brightening up rooms. This helps make spaces feel more open and airy.
But there is a downside – the increased light bouncing off an eggshell ceiling highlights any imperfections in the surface texture and paint application. Uneven drywall sanding, roller stipple and brush marks show up more under light reflecting off eggshell ceilings compared to matte finishes.
Durable and Washable
A key advantage of eggshell paint is its durability and resistance to staining, dirt and moisture. Ceilings painted with eggshell will stand up well to condensation, humidity and water vapor in bathrooms. The finish is also scrubbable and washable, making it easier to remove typical stains like grease splatters.
However, some eggshell products are not as stain resistant as advertised. Lower quality paint can still yellow from smoke or water damage. Condensation and moisture can damage eggshell paint that isn’t specifically formulated for bathrooms and kitchens.
Low Sheen Helps Avoid Flashing
Eggshell’s lower sheen makes it less prone to flashing on ceilings compared to semi-gloss and high-gloss paints. Flashing is a term for uneven shading and sheen that results from poor paint application.
The subtle gloss of eggshell doesn’t accentuate lap marks, edging and roller stipple as much as shinier sheens. But it may still flash on ceilings under harsh lighting conditions. Darker paint colors in eggshell also show flashing more easily.
Overall, eggshell is less likely to flash on ceilings versus glossier paints. But not immune completely if applied poorly and viewed under direct lighting.
Uniform, Consistent Look
One advantage of eggshell over flat paint finishes is it typically dries to a more uniform surface. The increased resin allows the paint to flow and level nicely. The end result is a consistent eggshell sheen across the entire ceiling.
Flat paint can dry to slight variances in sheen, color and texture. But any imperfections in an eggshell ceiling are more apparent due to the higher reflectivity. Eggshell may also show overlap marks between paint batches.
Higher VOC Emissions
The extra additives and resins in eggshell paint mean it releases more VOCs (volatile organic compounds) as it dries compared to flat paints. VOCs can be irritating to health, produce odors and pollute indoor air quality.
Paint brands now offer low-VOC and zero-VOC options with fewer emissions. But many standard eggshell paints still contain solvents and chemicals that off-gas as the coating dries and cures. Those concerned with air quality may want to avoid eggshells with high VOC levels.
Should You Use Eggshell Paint on Ceilings?
So is eggshell paint a suitable choice for interior ceilings? Here are some guidelines on whether eggshell or flat paint is preferable:
Eggshell Recommended For:
– Ceilings with minor to moderate imperfections – hides flaws well
– Newer ceilings in good condition – highlights nice textures
– Bathrooms and kitchens – durability and washability useful
– Adding brightness to dark/dull rooms – reflects light nicely
Flat Recommended For:
– Severely damaged or cracked ceilings – flaws are too apparent through eggshell
– Heavily textured ceilings like popcorn – eggshell accents rough texture
– Rooms with recessed lighting – hides flashing and stippling marks
– Low budgets – flat is generally a few dollars cheaper per gallon
– Health concerns over VOCs – flat has fewer emissions
Tips for Eggshell Ceilings:
– Use flat paint for the ceiling base coat to hide flaws
– Finish with 1-2 coats eggshell for protection and light reflectivity
– Buy quality eggshell designed for bathrooms and kitchens
– Use flat paint on sections with flaws/damages only
– Apply eggshell carefully to avoid lap marks and flashing
– Consider darker tinted flat for rooms with lighting issues
Eggshell vs Flat Ceiling Paint Comparison
| Paint Finish | Eggshell | Flat |
|---|---|---|
| Sheen Level | 10-25% gloss on 60° meter | 0-5% gloss on 60° meter |
| Hides Flaws | Hides minor to moderate flaws well | Excellent for hiding flaws and imperfections |
| Reflects Light | Reflects light nicely for brighter rooms | Absorbs light for little reflection or glare |
| Durability | Durable and scrubbable finish | Less durable than eggshell |
| Flashing Resistance | Low sheen helps avoid flashing | Matte finish prevents flashing |
| Uniformity | Dries evenly for consistent finish | Can dry unevenly |
| VOCs | Higher VOC emissions | Lower VOC emissions |
| Cost | $$ | $ |
How to Apply Eggshell Ceiling Paint
Applying eggshell finish well on ceilings requires careful prep and painting technique:
1. Clean and Repair the Ceiling Surface
Fix any cracks, holes and damages first. Cut away loose material and fill gaps with spackle. Sand down high spots or textures. Clean away dust, grease and stains so the paint adheres well.
2. Prime if Needed
On new drywall or repaired patches, apply a PVA or drywall primer to seal the surface. For stained areas, use a stain-blocking primer.
3. Cut In the Edges
Use an angled paint brush to cut in around the ceiling perimeter and edges. Avoid touching walls or corners.
4. Apply First Coat
Working in 3×3 foot sections, roll on the first coat of eggshell ceiling paint. Maintain a wet edge and overlap strokes.
5. Inspect and Allow to Dry
Look for any misses and touch up. Allow at least 4 hours drying time before the second coat.
6. Apply Second Coat
Apply the second finish coat using crisscross strokes to achieve an even appearance. Load the roller well and don’t overwork the paint.
7. Clean Up Promptly
Wipe up any drips immediately on walls or trim before the paint dries. Remove painter’s tape right after painting.
8. Allow Full Cure
Leave the paint to cure fully for at least two weeks before cleaning or applying any treatments. Ventilate the room well.
Following these tips will achieve great results with eggshell ceiling paint. Take care to avoid flashing, lap marks and brush strokes. Test samples first to ensure you’re happy with the finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does eggshell paint show imperfections?
Eggshell shows moderate imperfections like minor cracks, seams and drywall flaws more than flat paint. Heavy textures and damages are generally still visible through eggshell.
Is eggshell good for bathroom ceiling?
Eggshell works well in bathrooms because it withstands moisture, splashes and condensation. The scrubbable finish also resists mildew and mold growth. Ensure the product is formulated for bathrooms.
Does eggshell ceiling paint yellow?
Like all paint types, cheaper quality eggshell can yellow from moisture, smoke and other environmental factors. Higher grade eggshells with stain-blocking additives resist yellowing far better.
Is eggshell shiny?
Eggshell has a soft velvety sheen rather than a shiny glossy finish. It has more luster than flat but less than satin or semi-gloss paint.
Is eggshell good for low ceilings?
Eggshell can work on low ceilings since its reflectivity brightens up spaces. Just be aware any imperfections will be more noticeable on low eggshell ceilings compared to flat.
Conclusion
Overall, eggshell paint is a suitable option for many interior ceilings, providing some nice advantages compared to flat ceiling paint. The delicate eggshell sheen hides flaws, brightens rooms and offers great washability and durability.
However, those looking to disguise damages, heavy textures or flaws should stick with flat paint. Eggshell also shows imperfections in application and may flash under harsh lighting. Testing samples first in a room’s lighting will clarify if eggshell is the right choice over flat for a particular ceiling.