Are you considering painting your porch ceiling but unsure what color to use? Well, you've come to the right place. We've done the research to put together this guide, providing you with the best color options for your porch ceiling.
The best color to paint a porch ceiling include:
- Light blue
- White
- Light green
- Light gray
- Dark blue
- Dark gray
- Black
Using different colors and shades will result in different effects, with some creating a more open feeling space and others providing a more elegant, contrasting aesthetic. Keep reading to learn more about how each color could affect your area and other options for your porch ceiling.
What Are The Best Paint Colors For A Porch Ceiling?
The most popular paint color for porch ceilings includes varying shades of light blue. Light blue for a porch ceiling is a staple in most southern United States.
Although there is no scientific proof that it is true, many people swear that they see fewer spiders, wasps, and other insects after painting their porch ceiling light blue.
Should You Paint Your Porch Ceiling?
Yes, painting or staining a wooden porch ceiling will increase the longevity of the wood by creating a protective layer that guards against moisture and humidity.
Use exterior-grade primer and paint or exterior-grade stain for a durable and long-lasting protective finish.
Whether you just had a new porch ceiling installed, or the ceiling is older and showing wear, it's a good idea to finish or refinish the wood.
1. Light Blue
Light blue shades on porch ceilings are the most popular choice in the United States, particularly in the southern U.S. It imitates the color of the sky, and in an outdoor space, this can make all the difference in how open and airy the porch feels.
Light blue is probably the safest choice for a porch ceiling, but this will ultimately depend on the color of your home and porch.
Microblend Exterior Paint And Primer In Celestial Blue
This light blue will blend well with the sky and contains the slightest hint of gray to tone down the color. It's also stain-resistant for quick and easy maintenance.
Click here to see this paint on Amazon.
2. White
White is another safe option for the majority of porch ceilings, no matter what color the rest of your home may be.
It doesn't mimic the color of the sky like light blue, but this light neutral still helps to create a more open feel.
If your home's color scheme consists of darker colors, white can offer a welcome contrast to the porch.
Prestige Paints Exterior Paint And Primer In White
This flat white paint is an excellent choice for a porch ceiling. It consists of an all-in-one paint and primer formula designed to make the job go faster.
Click here to see this paint on Amazon.
3. Light Green
Painting your porch ceiling light green helps boost the natural feel of your space. This can be a great way to liven up the area by adding a subtle pop of color.
Pale and mint green are good places to start looking, but darker shades of green can also work.
Prestige Paints Exterior Paint And Primer In Sage Tint
This light green paint isn't too overpowering, but it can still add some color and life to space. It's a beautiful toned-down green that conjures thoughts of nature and plants.
Click here to check out this paint on Amazon.
4. Light Gray
A light gray is a great option for porch ceilings, especially if the rest of your home or porch is already painted in darker shades.
Light gray can lighten up the outdoor space without creating contrasting too strongly against darker shades that may already be present.
Even in your home is painted in lighter colors, you may find that a light gray porch ceiling adds character to your porch without clashing against any existing colors on the house since it is a good neutral tone.
Prestige Paints Paint And Primer Comparable To Lazy Gray
This light gray shade will offer some contrast to homes with white siding or accents. For homes with darker colors, it can be used to lighten up the space and could even make the ceiling appear taller.
Click here to see this paint on Amazon.
5. Dark Blue
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An excellent choice for night owls who prefer to use their porch at night.
Dark blue offers a similar benefit to light blue, but it blends best with the night sky, providing the feel of a more open and spacious outdoor area.
It's also an excellent choice for homes with a coastal theme since dark blues also tend to fit into the color scheme nicely.
Microblend Exterior Paint And Primer In The Dark Side
This dark blue shade is a near-perfect match for the night sky. It's available in various sizes and several finishes to meet your needs.
Click here to check out this paint on Amazon.
6. Dark Gray
Homes with light or dark color schemes can benefit from a dark gray shade on their porch ceiling.
In lighter homes, it can create high levels of contrast, and in darker homes, it can create a more subtle difference. In either case, it certainly makes a welcome statement.
Prestige Paints Exterior Paint And Primer Vessel Gray
This dark gray shade will create a more significant contrast against white homes. Against darker homes, it offers little contrast but makes for a unique look.
Check out this paint on Amazon here.
7. Black
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Black paint on the ceiling is another option that can work with light or dark-colored homes. It's a unique choice that stands out and creates an elegant, regal atmosphere.
This is another shade that will complement the night sky well, creating a more open feeling space at night.
During the day, this dark color choice may make your porch roof appear shorter than it is, making it a great choice for porches with high ceilings.
The One Interior/Exterior Paint In Black
This black paint will create a stunning and elegant look on any porch ceiling. When used against a white home, this pitch-black shade creates stark contrast, making a real wow factor.
View this black paint on Amazon here.
What Is The Best Finish For Porch Ceiling Paint?
While you can use any exterior paint, paint with a satin finish is typically recommended for porch ceilings.
Paint with a satin finish creates a slightly shiny surface that falls between matte and gloss finishes. This type of finish tends to be highly durable and creates a protective barrier against mold and mildew.
What Type Of Primer Should You Use On A Porch Ceiling?
Any good exterior primer that is mold and mildew resistant will work well for your porch ceiling.
You should always use the primer before applying paint; it helps ensure even color, and it helps protect the wood. Make sure you follow the instructions applying multiple coats if needed.
INSL-X Prime All Multi-Surface Primer
This primer can be used in interior and exterior locations and offers mildew resistance and stain blockers. It's also quick-drying to help speed up the process.
Check out this primer on Amazon here.
How To Paint A Porch Ceiling
The easiest way to paint your porch ceiling is with wide paint rollers on long handles. Using standard-size rollers and step ladders to reach the roof provides a similar result but requires more work.
Make sure to lay down a drop cloth before you begin to protect the porch floor from drips, spills, and splatters.
Wagner SMART Paint Roller
The handle of this paint roller extends up to 8 feet in length to make painting ceilings a cinch. It also stores paint in the handle to remove the hassle of paint trays.
Click here to see this paint roller on Amazon.
Do You Have To Paint A Porch Ceiling?
You don't have to paint a porch ceiling. Staining is a great option if you prefer the look of natural wood or if it suits your home better.
The process is similar to painting, but stain doesn't require primer. Make sure to choose an exterior grade stain for your porch ceiling to protect the wood from environmental stress.
To Wrap Things Up
Now that you know the best colors for porch ceilings, you're ready to start deciding and figuring out which colors complement your home best. Don't forget to use a primer to protect the wood and a drop cloth to protect the floor. Have fun and enjoy your porch's new look!
Made it to the end? Check out these helpful related posts below!
To learn more about keeping bugs at bay on the porch, read our article How To Keep Bugs Away From The Porch Light [5 Ways!]
For more information on the best paint and finish for a porch ceiling, read our article What Type Of Paint For A Porch Ceiling?