Painting a room is a common DIY project that many people undertake on their own. They pick up paint, a paint tray, a paintbrush, and a paint roller, then get started painting the walls. However, if you haven't tackled a paint project before, you may not know that paint, paint trays, paintbrushes, and paint rollers come in several different types. Choosing the wrong paint tray can slow down the project, while selecting the wrong brush can leave you with a streaky finish. For these reasons along with several others, it's important to learn more about the paint and tools you need before starting a project.
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Paint rollers are a relatively basic tool. They consist of a handle, a metal frame, and a metal roller that holds a paint roller cover. Despite the simplicity of the tool, there are still several types of paint rollers and a range of paint roller cover options based on size, function, roller cover fabric, and pile height. Discover how to choose a paint roller that's suitable for your next home renovation project.
Many people grab the first paint roller they see without considering the size of the roller, where the roller will be used, or the type of roller cover. This mistake can delay the project and the wrong roller cover could result in an uneven finish. Take some time to learn about what to consider when buying a paint roller.
Paint rollers come in several different sizes, so it's important to consider the area you will be working in before deciding on a paint roller. If you are painting average-sized walls, then it's best to look for a standard roller, which typically measures 9 inches in length. For larger walls and ceilings, you can find oversize paint rollers that range in size from 12 inches to 18 inches.
However, if you are working with trim, doors, doorframes, or narrow walls, a mini paint roller is the right way to go. They come in a variety of lengths, including 2-inch, 3-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch. Just keep in mind that a project may need more than one size of roller. Don't try to find an all-purpose roller for every surface when it's relatively inexpensive to pick up the right size paint roller for the task.
When you need to choose a paint roller cover or sleeve, it's necessary to figure out what material is best for the job. Paint roller covers are typically made of woven or knit synthetic material, lambswool, or foam. Opt for woven or knit synthetic paint roller covers if you are painting interior walls and ceilings. This fabric doesn't shed as much as lambswool and it creates a smooth, even finish.
The woven synthetic covers work best with glossy finishes, while the knit synthetic roller sleeves are better for flat or eggshell finishes. If you are working with oil-based paints, switch to a lambswool roller cover for a more even finish. Lambswool is also a good choice for glossy latex paint. Just keep in mind that the rollers tend to shed.
Foam rollers are better for painting smooth surfaces, like fine furniture. Use these rollers with varnish, polyurethane, or paint to finish off woodworking projects.
Paint roller sleeves absorb paint from the paint tray and release it on a surface when a small amount of pressure is applied by the user. With this in mind, you need to choose the pile height or nap of a paint roller carefully to avoid creating an uneven finish on smooth surfaces or having difficulties painting rough or heavily textured surfaces.
Standard interior paint projects will typically require a paint roller sleeve with a 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch nap or pile height. However, for rougher surfaces, like the back deck or fence, a 3/4-inch to 1-inch pile height is suitable. Brick, cinder block, and stone may require a thicker paint roller pile ranging from about 1 1/4 inches to 1 1/2 inches.
There are five main types of paint rollers, each designed for a specific purpose, including manual, pad, textured, specialty, and mini paint rollers. Understanding the differences between these types is essential to effectively learn how to choose a paint roller for your next project.
The most common type of paint roller is known as a manual paint roller. These are the standard paint rollers with a simple handle, frame, and rotating metal roller that are typically used for painting interior walls and ceilings. They can also be used outdoors for painting exterior surfaces when they are equipped with the right paint roller cover.
The drawback of these paint rollers is that they can be too long for painting thin surfaces, like baseboards and doorframes. However, manual rollers are one of the most affordable types available.
While they are still considered a type of roller, pad rollers do not roll. They have a flat pad that absorbs and releases the paint onto the target surface in straight, even strokes. The design of these rollers helps to prevent paint splatters that are common with manual paint rollers. However, paint pads only apply a thin layer of paint to the wall, ceiling, or any other surface, so they aren't very good for covering darker or more vibrant colors.
A textured paint roller actually refers to the roller sleeve, instead of the actual roller. You can use a manual roller with a textured paint sleeve to create innovative patterns or mimic designs, like wood grain, brick, or stone textures. The sleeves are made with foam and have individual patterns etched in to create the desired look, though these patterns can be difficult to appreciate on small walls on surfaces, so it's best to use textured paint rollers on larger walls where the pattern is easy to see.
Similar to textured paint rollers, a specialty paint roller is intended to create specific paint patterns. The main difference between the two types is that specialty paint rollers are not just manual paint rollers with an innovative roller sleeve. These are specialized tools designed by the manufacturer for specific textured paints. You don't need to use these rollers with the textured paint, but you may get better results with the specialized tool over a more general-use textured paint roller sleeve.
When a manual roller is too big to use for thin surfaces or to get into tight corners, the mini paint roller is the way to go. They come in a range of sizes, including 2-inch, 3-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch, allowing you to select the right length based on the needs of the project. Some types of mini rollers are used with small-diameter mini hot dog roller sleeves. The reason they are referred to as mini hot dog rollers is because, with the small diameter and short pile height, the roller sleeves resembles a mini hot dog. The thin roller sleeve is ideal for painting in tight corners and difficult to reach places, like behind the toilet.
One of the main reasons to invest in the right size and right type of paint roller for each portion of a painting project is that these tools are not expensive. You can purchase two or three different paint rollers to handle interior, exterior, and detail painting and ultimately end up with a better looking home than if you tried to stick to a manual paint roller with a standard roller sleeve for the entire project.
On average, a paint roller costs about $10 to $100. As with most tools, specialized products tend to cost more, like textured paint rollers or paint-specific specialty paint rollers. Mini paint rollers, manual paint rollers, and pad paint rollers are all relatively similar in price, occupying the low end of this price range.
Once you have a better understanding of the various roller and sleeve types, as well as a firm grasp of the range of sizes, fabrics, and pile heights, then you can begin to consider which roller and roller sleeve is best for your project.
The size and type of roller can heavily depend on the location you are working in. Average-sized walls and ceilings can be painted with a standard manual paint roller or you can use a textured paint roller for a more customized appearance. Go with a mini paint roller if you are working in tight spaces or need to paint baseboards, door frames, window frames, and any other thin surfaces. A pad paint roller can be a great choice for applying a thin second coat of paint over the first coat and it can help to even out the finish, just keep in mind that the pad only applies a thin layer of paint, so it isn't a good option if you need to cover a bold color.
Whether you are working inside or outside matters. Paint roller sleeves have a fabric pile or nap that absorbs the paint and releases it when the roller is pressed against a surface. Smooth, interior surfaces should be painted with a 3/8-inch to 1/2-inch roller sleeve to get a soft, even finish. However, to ensure that you get an even finish on a textured exterior wall, stucco surface, deck, or fence, go with a 3/4-inch to 1-inch pile height.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit decorative paint rollers for walls.
Brick and stone are typically used outdoors, but some homes use these materials indoors to create a unique aesthetic. If you are painting these tough, textured surfaces, use a paint roller sleeve with a 1 1/4-inch or 1 1/2-inch nap to ensure that you get adequate paint coverage.
Last October, I shared some of my favorite pro painting tips while we were working on the guest room, and received lots of positive feedback. I'm happy that was such a helpful post and I thought it might be beneficial to elaborate on determining which paint brush or roller works best for specific projects. I wanted to break it down in an easy, permanent resource for you here on the blog. Whether you're tackling a small paint project- like painting a piece of furniture'. or a large painting project- like the exterior of your home, I'm deciphering which paint tools work best for each project based on the surface you're painting. Click through or pin this one for future paint and home improvement projects! Oh- and there is a little giveaway at the end of the post, too- if you're in need of new brushes. Be sure to scroll to the bottom and enter! Ready for a super educational and informative post? Let's do it!
*This post is sponsored by Purdy. All content, ideas, and words are my own. Thank you for supporting the brands that allow us to create unique content while featuring products we actually use & enjoy!
Choosing the right brush or roller can really make or break your project outcome. I hate seeing brush streaks, uneven coverage, and have learned that projects go more quickly when I'm using the correct applicator. It took my stubborn self a couple years into our home improvement journey before I started investing in quality paint tools. They really do make a big difference, and knowing when to use what is half the battle! Let's talk about brushes first, then we'll discuss rollers.
There are three main things I consider before choosing a brush for a project: the stiffness, the size & shape, as well as the type of filaments. Did you know smaller trim brushes have stiff bristles and more control? They're designed for short strokes that create crisp lines, while wall brushes are larger, hold more paint, and are made for long strokes that cover a bigger surface area, saving you time. When choosing a brush, you'll want to consider the size, shape, stiffness, handle style, and type of bristles or filaments.
Brush Stiffness
Stiff brushes are designed for cutting in a clean, crisp line and trimming out around windows, door casings, and millwork. Generally, the more stiff the brush, the more control you have to achieve a hard edge. Anytime I trim out millwork, the ceiling or corners of a room, or windows & doors, I most always have a ClearCut brush in my hand.
Brush Size & Style
Smaller sized brushes are better for working in tight areas or on detailed projects- like furniture or window mullions. In addition to size, you also have to consider the shape of the brush. Angular brushes are best for getting into tight corners or difficult to reach areas. Large brushes are optimal for covering a lot of surface area when a roller won't work- like painting fences or curved surfaces (furniture projects). When choosing a brush, I also base my selection on the handle and how it feels in my hand. I'm partial to a short brush because it fits in my small hands and palm nicely, and doesn't get in the way like longer handles' it's great for tight areas and details. That part is really a personal preference and depends on how you paint and hold the brush. Experiment to find out which style you like best!
Brush Filaments
Not all brushes are created equal, and filaments (or bristles) are a big part of that. Purdy offers tipped and flagged filaments for their specific brushes, which helps with brush marks and cutting in crisp lines. Stiff brushes made for cutting in, have tipped filaments, so they won't fray or split over time' meaning you can continue painting crisp edges with each project. Tipped and flagged filaments are actually intentionally split, then tipped' meaning they're much softer, have smaller end bristles, and allow us to paint without brush marks. Isn't that interesting?!
The question I'm most often asked about painting' how do you paint without seeing brush strokes? I have two remedies for that: good self leveling paint and the right brush. My favorite brush for this is a Nylox brush, pictured above. These brushes are awesome for smooth interior projects (doors, trim, and cabinetry). Paired with a self leveling paint, they provide an ultra smooth finish without any brush marks. As the paint dries, you'll notice them disappearing. These brushes have very soft flagged and tipped filaments that provide an even finish. I made a little diagram for you'
My personal favorite brushes'
When selecting a roller cover, you have to determine what look you're going for' completely smooth, stippling, a little texture, or a lot of texture. You should consider the nap, roller width, and knit to determine what roller fabric works best for your project.
Roller Cover Fabric
When choosing a roller cover, there are two main fabric options: woven or knit. Knitted roller covers hold more paint, cover more surface area, and leave more texture. Woven roller covers, on the other hand, prevent lint while providing a smooth finish. The amount of stippling or texture you get also depends on the roller's fabric density.
Roller Nap
The less nap on a roller, the smoother the finish will be. 1/4' nap is great for ultra smooth surfaces- like doors, 3/8' nap is ideal for walls & ceilings, 1/2' nap is optimal for textured walls and concrete, 3/4' nap is best for stucco and masonry, and 1-1/4' nap is what you'll need for brick or highly textured masonry. For the majority of our interior walls here at home, we use White Dove roller covers. They have a 3/8' nap, work with all paints & stains, are lint-free, have a high-density woven cover, and they give us a nice smooth finish. I've got another diagram for you' I was on a roll in Illustrator and it was kind of fun getting back to my graphic design roots. Ha!
My personal favorite rollers'
Did you know that Purdy also has a convenient tool selector? I played around with it a lot last year and it's very accurate. You answer questions like the type of surface you're painting and the type of paint you're using, then the tool selector will provide you with the right tool for the job. That really helped me learn what to use.
As for the GIVEAWAY' the winner will receive a Purdy brush pack filled with a few of my favorites. If you'd like to test them out- all you have to do is comment on this blog post, and you're entered to win! Easy peasy. The winner will be announced in one week via . *The winner must have a US mailing address to win' sorry Canadian friends!
Was that WAY more than you wanted to know about paint brushes and rollers? Since partnering with Purdy these past 8-9 months, I've actually really loved learning about all of this stuff. I find it so interesting and my new knowledge has definitely come in handy during our projects. The more you know makes for a better outcome!
If you want to learn more, please visit our website wall stencil for painting.