Excessively tall staircase paint jobs that require scaffolding might be best left to the experts. For moderately tall jobs, a few easy steps will have the walls and ceilings looking new in no time.
Step 3: Affix protective sheeting to the wall. If painting the ceiling first, tape plastic sheeting to the wall to protect it from splatter. Mask the edge of the walls with masking tape. Mask around light fixtures and detectors in the ceiling. A long length of masking tape will mask the wall and hold the plastic sheeting up.
When painting on a ladder or platform, thoroughly check that the ladder and platform cannot slip. If you are uncomfortable with the process, hire a professional. Wear old clothes, protective gloves, hat and goggles when painting.