We have painted our kitchen ceiling many times. About 9 months after painting the ceiling, we can notice dark spots. The spots are where the nails are (THE SPOTS ARE NOT NAIL POPS). You can also see where the studs are at. How do we cover this once and for all? Will a darker ceiling paint work? I like the look of white ceiling, but am willing to go a little darker.

We have a tri-level home and the kitchen runs into the living room. Both ceilings are vaulted ceilings.

Whoever did the original install did a poor mud job. Joint compound was not properly floated at the joints and nail heads. You could try to fix this yourself but a pro would not be as expensive as you might think. They have the right equipment to float the joints properly and it's a bit of an art form to do a perfect job.

Before messing with the drywall mud, I would try a stain blocking paint such as Zinzer BIN or the vapor barrier paint from Sherwin Williams. Either dries as a flat white that could be left as the finish coat.

You might also check your ventilation and insulation.