How to Paint an Access Ceiling

An access ceiling occurs in a room where access is needed to the upper level of the home or building. They are made by cutting a hole in the ceiling and removing a portion of the drywall to add a way of removing the ceiling whenever access to the upper level is needed. They are often created out of fiberglass, drywall or metal. Once the access ceiling is in place it can be painted to create a cohesive look to the ceiling so the area of access is not overtly noticeable.

Step ladder
Painter's tape
Drop cloth
Paint
Paint brush
Paint roller
Paint tray

Instructions

- 1
  Use your step ladder to reach the access panel on your ceiling. Remove the door of the panel according to the manufacturer or carpenter's instructions. Since access panels are created out of different materials and in different styles, it is important to follow the specific instructions for this process.
- 2
  Tape the top edges of the walls leading to the ceiling using blue painter's tape. Make sure the tape is secured well to avoid having paint drip down the walls when painting the ceiling.
- 3
  Place paint in your paint tray. Place the access panel on a flat work surface covered with a drop cloth and paint the side that faces downward using a paint brush or paint roller. Choose a flat paint to minimize reflection.
- 4
  Place a drop cloth on the floor and use the same color paint to paint your ceiling. Use a paint roller for most of this project, but use large paint brushes where the ceiling meets the walls for added precision.
- 5
  Allow the access panel and ceiling to dry before adding an additional coat to each. Allow to dry for 24 hours. Place the access panel back into the opening in the ceiling with the painted side facing downward.

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