How to Shellac a Ceiling

Shellac can be used on wood, plaster and tile ceilings to seal them and protect them from moisture. Shellac is also commonly used to cover up stains from water damage on tile ceilings -- some manufacturers design shellac specifically for this purpose. When shellacking a ceiling, you will be constantly looking up, which puts your eyes in danger of coming in contact with falling drops of shellac. Always wear protective goggles when sealing or painting a ceiling.

Painter's tape
Drop cloths
Shellac
Paint stirrer
Paint tray
Paint roller with extension pole

Instructions

- 1
  Tape off the edges of the walls where they meet the ceiling. Place drop cloths throughout the room and tape them down to prevent them from shifting as you move about the room. If you prefer not to tape the cloths down, lay the cloths so they overlap each other by about 12 inches.
- 2
  Mix the shellac with a paint stirrer until it is well-incorporated. Pour the shellac in a paint tray. Attach a paint roller to an extension pole -- these look like broom sticks with a threaded end and are available at most home improvement, hardware and paint stores.
- 3
  Dip the roller head in the shellac and roll it around until the roller is coated. Roll the head on the ridged part of the paint tray to get out the excess. Lift the roller -- if it is still dripping, keep rolling off excess.
- 4
  Roll the shellac on the ceiling. Start at one end of the room and work your way to the end. If the room is particularly large, it may be best to work with a partner. Roll using full, uniform strokes that go in the same direction.
- 5
  Allow the shellac to dry completely. If desired apply a second coat of shellac.

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Ceilings