How to Fix an Uneven Painted Ceiling

If you have an uneven ceiling with ridges and bumps, simply painting over it will not fix the problem. Since painting a ceiling can be hard on your arms and shoulders, don't just start painting and hope for the best. Instead, follow a few simple techniques to even out your ceiling, then apply new paint to a flat, prepared surface.

Drop cloths
Stepladder
Sandpaper
Razor knife
Lightweight joint compound
Taping knife
Dust mask
Painter's tape
Ceiling paint
Paintbrush
Paint tray
Roller

Instructions

- 1
  Cover the floor of your room with painting drop cloths.
- 2
  Stand on a stepladder so you can reach the ceiling. Sand or scrape any raised areas, dried paint drips or bumps off your ceiling using sandpaper or a razor knife.
- 3
  Apply a thin layer of lightweight joint compound to the ceiling using a taping knife. Allow the compound to dry overnight.
- 4
  Put on a dust mask. Sand any rough edges or raised spots.
- 5
  Repeat Steps 2 and 3 one or two more times until you are satisfied with the smoothness of the ceiling.
- 6
  Tape the walls at the edges of the ceiling using painter's tape. Use a paintbrush to paint around the edges.
- 7
  Pour ceiling paint into a tray. Use a roller to apply it to the ceiling. Let dry for 24 hours, then apply a second coat if desired.

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