There are many different types of paint rollers on the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is best for the project you’re working on. In this article, we’ll discuss the best paint roller for walls, so you can make an informed decision on which paint roller to purchase.
What is the best paint roller for walls?
The paint roller is one of the most important tools when painting interior walls. The wrong roller can leave behind roller marks and lint, ruining the look of your paint job.
The best paint roller for walls depends on some factors such as the wall’s texture and the width of the walls.
The best paint roller cover for smooth walls and smooth surfaces is a 3/8″ or 1/2″ synthetic nap roller cover.
The best paint roller cover for textured walls and rough surfaces, such as popcorn, stucco, orange peel or textured plaster is a 3/4″ or 1″ synthetic nap roller cover.
The thicker nap will help fill in the surface’s irregularities with paint for a better-looking paint job.
The best paint roller covers for heavily textured surfaces, such as a brick wall is a 1 1/4″ or a 1 1/2″ synthetic nap roller cover.
A paint roller with this thick nap will most of the time be able to fill in all the nooks and crannies of the rough surface with paint, but if it doesn’t you will have to use a paintbrush to fill in the areas that the paint roller couldn’t reach.
What is a paint roller?
A paint roller is a tool used to apply paint to a surface. It consists of a roller covered in absorbent material, attached to a handle.
Paint rollers are often used to paint walls and ceilings, as they can cover a large area quickly and evenly.
Paint rollers can be found in a variety of sizes, depending on the size of the area that needs to be painted. They are also available with different types of covers, depending on the surface that’s being painted and the type of paint being used.
A paint roller is made up of two main parts: the frame and the roller cover.
Roller frame width
For example, if you’re painting the walls in your bedroom or living room, then a roller frame with a 9″ width is probably the best choice.
For painting larger rooms in your home, a 12″ or 14″ roller frame will give you better coverage.
Roller covers
Roller covers come in different sizes, nap lengths and materials. The cover should be made of a high-quality material that is durable and won’t shed lint.
Nap length
The nap length is the thickness of the pile on the roller cover and is measured in inches. Common thicknesses are:
- 1/4 in.
- 3/8 in.
- 1/2 in.
- 3/4 in.
- 1 in.
- 1-1/4 in.
Choosing the right nap length for your surface is important to get the best result. If you use a roller cover with a too thick nap to roll your walls then the result will have a textured finish.
A good rule of thumb for roller covers is, that the smoother the surface, the shorter the nap.
What type of paint rollers do professionals use?
As a professional painter, I always go with quality over quantity.
I would rather pay a bit more for a high-quality paint roller that will last me a long time than buy a cheap paint roller that only lasts for one paint job.
I have roller frames I’ve had for 10+ years. Roller covers I wash and reuse.
If it’s a paint job with a rough surface such as new wood for exterior use or brick walls I usually use a roller cover that is still high-quality but since it will only be used once I don’t mind if it’s a bit cheaper.
After some use, all roller covers will start to degrade and the nap won’t be as thick. When this happens it’s time to replace the roller cover.
Purdy WhiteDove is a high-quality roller cover often used by professional painters. It’s made of a lint-free fabric that provides a smooth finish.
Purdy Colossus is another high-quality roller cover that professional painters often use.
PRO/DOO-Z FTP is also used by professionals.
These roller covers are ideal for painting walls and ceilings.
Does a good paint roller make a difference?
Cheap rollers tend to shed fibers, which can end up in your paint job. They can also be more likely to leave behind lint or streaks.
Higher quality rollers are made with better materials and construction, which means they’ll lay down a nicer, more even coat of paint.
They usually also have beveled edges that prevent ridges or lines from forming in your paint job.
How do I get a smooth finish with a paint roller?
Getting a smooth finish with a paint roller starts with the right roller cover for the job.
For walls choose a cover that is made of synthetic fibers and has a 3/8″ to 1/2″ nap.
Once you have the right roller cover, pour your paint into a tray and dip the roller into the paint. Work in small sections, and roll the paint on in long, even strokes. Use an extension pole.
Start at one end of the wall and work your way across. Use a light touch to avoid putting on too much paint, and reload the roller frequently to ensure even coverage.
If you don’t have enough paint the surface will start to show through and will have an uneven finish. If you have too much paint, it will run and drip.
If you see any roller marks, go over them again with your roller until they disappear.
Let the paint dry completely before adding a second coat, if necessary.
Should I wet the roller before painting?
Wetting the roller cover is usually not needed. But it can soak up the paint easier if the cover is moist, if it’s too wet it will drip.
If it’s a new roller cover then wash it in soap and water so it’s not shedding any fibers into the paint. Squeeze out the water and then roll it over your other hand in a fast manner so it spins removing excess water left in the nap.
How do you paint interior walls like a pro?
Painting interior walls like a pro aren’t as difficult as it may seem.
There are a few key steps that will help to ensure a smooth, even finish.
First, it’s important to choose the right paint, paint roller cover, paintbrush and to use an extension pole.
Next, it’s important to prepare the room by removing all furniture and protecting the floor with a drop cloth. Use painter’s tape on surfaces that are not going to be painted such as baseboards, switches and outlets.
Once the room is prepared, you can begin painting. Start by cutting in the edges with a paintbrush, then use a roller to fill in the rest of the wall. Work in small sections and use long, even strokes. Reload the roller frequently to ensure even coverage.
If you see any roller marks, go over them again with your roller until they disappear.
Conclusion
To sum it up, the best paint roller for walls comes down to choosing the right roller cover for the surface of the wall. Use the right nap for the wall’s texture and make sure it’s a high-quality cover to avoid shedding fibers and doesn’t leave streaks.