Woven fabrics, including microfiber and mohair, prevent lint from being left behind while providing an exceptionally smooth finish.
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Knit fabrics, like polyester and lambswool, hold more paint and cover larger areas faster while leaving some stipple.
Roller cover nap sizes, or thickness of the fibers, varies from low to high based on the surface you are painting. Low-nap rollers pick up less paint, while high-nap rollers pick up and hold more for larger projects.
Surface texture and general environmental factors, including temperature and humidity, should also factor into your roller cover selection. For uniform interior surfaces like drywall, cabinets and metal, use roller covers with smaller nap sizes, like our ¼-inch nap WhiteDove™, to ensure a smooth finish. Walls, ceilings and paneling require a slightly larger nap size of 3/8-inch; for lightly textured walls, decks and concrete, use a ½-inch nap; and for textured ceilings, stucco and masonry, use ¾-inch.
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For outdoor jobs, or when painting rough interior surfaces such as cinder block, rough wood and brick, look for roller covers with a higher nap, like our 1-inch GoldenEagle™ for greater paint pickup that reaches every nook and cranny, as well as faster application and increased productivity.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST ROLLER COVER FOR YOUR PROJECT
Select the best high-quality roller cover for your next project to ensure first-rate results from Benjamin Moore® paint.
Paint rollers are ideal for large flat surfaces because they help get the job done faster. Rollers are especially helpful for textured surfaces like stucco, concrete, and brick. Use this guide to help you choose the right roller cover type, size and thickness (nap) for any job.
Helpful Tip
Choose quality over cost-savings: Budget rollers shed fibers and deteriorate with numerous washings. A quality roller cover may cost a little more money but lasts longer and provides more uses if maintained properly.
Cheap rollers often do not hold enough paint and shed fibers on your walls. Opt for a quality roller cover that includes beveled edges, no visible seams, a plastic core and visible bounce-back when squeezed.
Step #2: Choose the Best Roller Cover Size
Paint roller covers come in several different sizes for application on a range of project areas. Use a small roller for tight spots and a larger one for wide-open spaces, like a wall or ceiling. Here are some project guidelines when choosing a roller size:
- Walls, Ceilings, Flat Doors—Use a standard-size, 9” (240mm) roller
- Small Furnishings, Paneled Cabinet Doors, Wide Trim, Narrow & Tight Surfaces, Edges, Frames, Handrails—Use a medium-size, 4” (100mm) roller
Helpful Tip
Before using a new roller, wrap painter’s tape around the palm of your hand, sticky side out. Rub the tape along the roller to remove excess lint.
Step #3: Understand Nap Thickness
Nap is the thickness of the fibers on the roller cover, also known as “pile.” The more texture your surface has, the thicker the nap should be. Examples of nap thickness and projects include:
- 3/16” - ¼”—For smooth surfaces like metal doors, trim and cabinet doors; works well with semi-gloss or gloss coatings
- ⅜” - ½” (9.5-12.7mm)—For smooth and semi-smooth surfaces like drywall, painted or unpainted walls and ceilings
- ¾” - 1” (19.05-25.4mm)—For semi-rough surfaces like wood, stucco or a textured ceiling
- 1 ¼” - 1 ½” (31.75-38.1mm)—For rough surfaces like concrete block, brick, or masonry
You’ll still need a paintbrush for areas that demand precision, like cutting in corners and painting trim. Otherwise, rolling paint over large areas is extremely efficient and offers the smoothest finish.
Helpful Tip
While painting, if you see little dimples on your wall—think orange peels—consider switching to a roller cover with a thinner nap.
Pro Tip Spotlight
Need a roller frame? Look for better quality roller frames as they offer more rigid construction, threaded handles to accept extension poles, and endcap springs to ensure your roller cover stays in place. A grip handle is also important to help reduce fatigue.
Pro Tip Spotlight
Need a roller frame? Look for better quality roller frames as they offer more rigid construction, threaded handles to accept extension poles, and endcap springs to ensure your roller cover stays in place. A grip handle is also important to help reduce fatigue.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Paint Rollers Manufacturer China.
Have more questions? Your local Benjamin Moore retailer can offer more advice on choosing roller covers and how to use them.