3. Paint Rollers & Roller Accessories

A good roller frame is an inexpensive, time-saving tool that can last for years. Choose a well-balanced frame with nylon bearings and a comfortable handle with a threaded end that accepts an extension handle.

Roller covers are available in a wide variety of materials and nap lengths. Most jobs can be done with 3/8" nap. Select medium-priced synthetic roller covers that can be reused a few times before being discarded. Bargain roller covers might shed fibers onto the painted surface, and cannot be cleaned or reused. Rinse all roller covers before use to remove lint.

Use more expensive lamb’s wool roller covers when using most alkyd-based paints. Mohair covers work well with gloss alkyd paints, where complete smoothness is important.

Synthetic covers (left) are good with most paints, especially latexes. Wool or mohair roller covers (right) give an even finish with alkyd products. Choose good-quality roller covers, which will be less likely to shed lint.

Select the proper roller cover for the surface you intend to paint. A 1/4"-nap cover is used for very flat surfaces. A 3/8"-nap cover will cover the small flaws found in most flat walls and ceilings. A 1"-nap cover fills spaces in rough surfaces, such as concrete blocks or stucco walls. Foam rollers fit into small spaces and work well when painting furniture or doing touch-ups. Corner rollers have nap on the ends and make it easy to paint corners without cutting in the edges.

Choose a sturdy roller with a wire cage construction. Nylon bearings should roll smoothly and easily when you spin the cage. The handle end should be threaded for attaching an extension handle.

Buy a paint tray with legs that allow the tray to sit steadily on the shelf of a ladder. Disposable tray liners simplify clean up: simply allow the paint to dry completely and throw the liner away in the regular trash. Look for a textured ramp that keeps the roller turning easily.

A five-gallon paint container and paint screen speed up the process of painting large areas. Some manufacturers offer containers with built-in roller trays that let you paint straight from the container. Do not try to balance a five-gallon container on the shelf of a ladder—it’s too heavy.

Use an adjustable extension handle to paint ceilings and tall walls easily without a ladder.