How to Roll a Wall

The easiest way to paint interior walls is by using a roller. The paint applies more evenly and you can't see all of those nasty brush strokes after you've completed the job. But, as with everything else, there are a few simple steps you should follow to ensure the job's done right.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paint roller
• Short extension pole
• 5-gallon bucket
• Roller grid
• Drywall compound
• Sandpaper
• Paint
• Paint brush
• A rag or cloth
• Soap and water

1. Patch any cracks or holes in the wall using drywall compound. Let it dry thoroughly, and smooth out the area using fine sandpaper.

2. Wash the surface of the wall using a wet rag or cloth to remove any dirt or other residue.

3. Pour your paint into a 5-gallon bucket, and attach a roller grid to the rim of the bucket.

4. Attach the extension pole to the handle of the roller. Using the pole takes pressure off your back and shoulders when you're painting the wall.

5. Daub paint on the roller (don't immerse it completely in the paint). Roll it up the grid to evenly distribute the paint on the roller. Do this a few times until the surface of the roller is completely covered.

6. Roll paint lightly over the areas you patched to reduce the possibility of dull spots on the wall.

7. Use a brush to cut in about three inches at corners, below the ceiling and above baseboards or moulding.

8. Begin rolling the wall from the top of the wall to the bottom using your wrists and arms. For tight areas, roll from the cut-in area at the top to the middle of the wall and then from the middle down to the bottom.

9. Feather in the paint to eliminate lines going down the wall by applying pressure to either the left or right side of the roller.

10. Let the surface dry thoroughly, and then apply a second coat of paint.