The Best Bathroom Paint for Steamy Ceilings

Between the frequent moisture, humidity, and steam, it’s no surprise that these areas require special bathroom paint to withstand those endurances. All in all, ceiling paint for bathrooms is designed to high-perform against humidity, mildew, and maintain rich color tones simultaneously.

Now, it might seem like straightforward reasoning to use moisture resistant paint for bathrooms as opposed to one that isn’t. However, not all bathroom paint is created equal. In fact, some are filled with Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can hinder overall ceiling aesthetics and quality of life. 

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Below is a comprehensive overview on the intricacies of bathroom paint. This overview will offer under-the-surface knowledge of the why’s and how’s. It can also act as a guide to ensure your chosen bathroom ceiling paint offers more benefits than just moisture protection. 

Moisture Resistant Bathroom Paint

VOC-free and moisture resistant paint for bathrooms like we offer is ideal for countering the adversities of steam. We are able to offer these high-quality paint because we use Benjamin Moore Gennex paint tints. The reason is because they eliminate the risk of inhaling VOC emissions such as benzene, ethylene glycol fungicides, and formaldehyde. They also are strategically fortified to prevent ceiling degradation caused by moisture over time. 

Even more, bathroom paint is distinguishable for possessing higher levels of mildewcide. Mildewcide slows mold and mildew growth, which could harm health and cause costly structural/drywall damages if left untreated.

A duo primer and Benjamin Moore Aura Bath & Spa matte-finished ceiling paint for bathrooms is a wonderful option to accentuate health and aesthetic longevity. You could also use a glossy finish, but that is not recommended. Overall, glossy finishes tend to be overly reflective and often highlight ceiling imperfections. 

Kitchen & Bath Satin sheen paints are also safe to use in bathrooms. This is because they have higher sheen values, are easier to clean, and offer harder finishes that help prevent moisture penetration. 

The Benefits of Benjamin Moore Zero-VOC Moisture Resistant Paint

When opting for moisture resistant paint for bathrooms, ensure that it is also VOC-free. Because when intertwining both, it enables you to unlock a large inventory of benefits ranging from health to interior quality. Some of the more notable ones include:

• Reduced risk of facing health concerns directly related to mold and mildew growth
• Eliminates short- and long-term health and environmental effects of VOC emissions 
• Prevents drywall and other structural damage that can result in costly repairs
• Avoids the need to invest in any other additives, hardeners, or thinners 
• Offers excellent adhesion for crack proofing, color retention, and yellow coloring resistance 
• Easy to sustain, maintain, and clean without the aid of harsh solvents 

Preparing A Bathroom Ceiling For Painting 

Moisture resistant paint for bathrooms is fundamental for health and appeal success. But that is contingent upon how prepared you are to optimize those outcomes. In general, there are several preparation steps to take before applying your bathroom ceiling paint. 

Step One: Verify There Are No Asbestos In Your Ceiling

Nearly all homes before 1989 had asbestos in their bathrooms, and it is important to check for that before painting. Because even though it is not dangerous when dormant, pre-painting activities could release asbestos dust/fibers into the air. To avoid this health risk, seek professional assistance and ensure your home is asbestos-free before taking the next steps. 

Step Two: Ceiling Preparation and Cleaning 

If your bathroom ceiling contains no asbestos, then you can begin prepping by putting coverings over stationary fixtures first. Afterwards, take down any ceiling lights, patch holes, and scrap off any existing flacking paint. If you notice any mold in the corners, get rid of it before applying paint. You can do this by creating a solution of 2 parts bleach and 10 parts water mixed into a spray bottle.
Remember, mold-resistant paint does not kill existing mold, and if painted over, there is a good chance it will reappear. 

Step Three: Ensure Your Bathroom Is Dry 

Once you finalized prepping, the next thing you will want to do is avoid showering or using that room. For maximum assurance, avoid using the bathroom 12 to 24-hours, and apply your first coat only after that duration has cleared. When painting bathroom ceilings, we recommend using a 2 1/2-inch angled sash brush, a 9-inch roller, and an adjustable step ladder. 

Step Four: Paint Away 

If you are using a separate primer, apply it first and give it time to dry before applying paint. This will reduce the risk of pealing and lifting from the humidity and moisture. Consider applying two coats for lighter ceiling colors and 3-4 coats for darker ones, while always keeping ventilation high. Wait at least 4-5 hours after the final coat is applied to begin using your bathroom normally. 

Summary – Not All Paints Are Created Equal 

There is no denying that choosing the right ceiling paint for bathrooms is vital to sustainable appeal and your health. This is especially true for VOC-free bathroom paint that optimizes performance and solidifies health assurance.

In summary, moisture resistant paint for bathrooms was designed specifically to keep your ceiling intact and prevent future health risks. But as noted above, not all bathroom ceiling paint is created equal and not all brands value quality. By leveraging brands that care about wellbeing and results, will give you bathroom paint will be a multi-beneficial one.