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Surfaces Phase|Step 17 of 27

Paint Walls

Fresh paint transforms any bathroom. Use the right paint for humid environments.

Bathroom Paint Calculator

Ceiling Height (feet)

8

Wall Perimeter (linear feet)

32

Add all 4 walls together

Paint Finish

Paint Quality

Wall Area

218 sq ft

Paint Needed

2 gallons

Paint (2 gal)$90
Supplies$35
Estimated Total$125

Choosing Bathroom Paint

Key requirement: Use paint labeled for bathrooms or kitchens.

These paints have mold inhibitors and can handle humidity without peeling.

Finish Options

  • Satin: Slight sheen, easy to clean, hides minor imperfections. Best all-around choice.
  • Semi-gloss: More durable, very wipeable, shows wall flaws more. Good for trim.
  • Eggshell: Low sheen, softer look. OK for bathrooms with good ventilation.

Popular Bathroom Colors

Light & Airy

  • • White or off-white
  • • Light gray
  • • Pale blue or green
  • • Soft sage

Bold Choices

  • • Navy blue
  • • Forest green
  • • Charcoal
  • • Black (accent wall)

Tip: Bathrooms are small, so bold colors can work well without being overwhelming.

Painting Steps

1

Prep the room

Remove switch plates, towel bars, and anything on walls. Cover floor, toilet, and vanity.

2

Clean walls

Wipe down with TSP or degreaser. Bathrooms have soap scum and residue that prevents adhesion.

3

Repair and sand

Fill holes with spackle, let dry, sand smooth. Sand any glossy areas to help paint grip.

4

Tape edges

Tape ceiling line, trim, and around fixtures. Press tape edges firmly to prevent bleeding.

5

Cut in edges first

Use angled brush around ceiling, corners, and fixtures. Create a 2-3 inch border.

6

Roll walls

Load roller, roll off excess. Use W pattern, then fill in. Keep a wet edge to avoid lap marks.

7

Apply second coat

Wait 2-4 hours between coats. Second coat ensures even coverage and durability.

Pro Tips

  • Remove tape before fully dry: Pull tape at 45-degree angle when paint is tacky, not hard.
  • Run exhaust fan: Good ventilation helps paint cure properly in humid bathrooms.
  • Paint the ceiling too: A fresh white ceiling makes a huge difference. Use ceiling-specific paint.
  • Paint in good light: Open blinds or add work lights. You'll miss spots in dim lighting.