How to Choose Paint Roller Covers

Match the paint roller cover to the painting surface.

Paint rollers make the task of interior and exterior painting much easier because they cover more surface area in less time than a paint brush. A standard size paint brush roller can be fitted with paint brush roller covers that are made of both natural and synthetic fibers with a nap length of varying sizes. Different wall textures and materials will determine the appropriate paint roller cover that you should choose for your painting project.

Things You'll Need

• Paint roller
• Extension stick
• Paint roller cover

Instructions

1. Look at the surface that needs to be painted. Run your hand along the wall or surface to feel the texture.

2. Decide on the paint type (latex, acrylic, or oil-based) to be applied to the surface.

3. Choose a synthetic or fiber paint roller cover for latex or water based paints. Alternatively, choose a natural fiber roller cover for oil-based paints.

4. Choose a roller nap-the roller fiber thickness-based on the texture of the area being painted. Choose a tight short roller nap for a smooth surface like wood, wallboard, plaster, or metal. Choose a medium nap for light stucco walls or ceilings. Lightly texture surfaces including over textured wallpaper or rough wood surfaces. Choose a long nap for highly textured surfaces including heavy stucco, bricks, concrete block, and concrete.

5. Squeeze the roller to determine the roller nap quality. If the roller nap bounces back easily, this roller will be more durable.

Tips & Warnings

• Some paint roller covers have designs, cut outs, or textures for special paint applications.

• Avoid paint roller covers that have seams that are highly visible or can be felt. These seams will contribute to uneven paint application.

References

• Bob Vila: Selecting Paint Rollers
• Sherwin-Williams: Choosing a Roller

Resources

• Sherwin-Williams: Using a Roller