How to use a paint roller

Getting started

To use a roller you'll need a tray, frame, roller cover and possibly an extension pole. Make sure you have the right roller for the job. Generally speaking, 6-8mm nap covers are used for gloss and semi gloss paints, 10-12mm nap covers for low sheen and flat paints on walls and 20-32mm nap covers for most paints on rough surfaces such as concrete or textured walls.

Using a paint roller

1. De-fuzz new roller sleeves prior to use by washing them in water for use with water-based paints.

2. Fit the roller to the frame.

3. Pour paint into the reservoir at the end of the roller tray. Do not overfill.

4. Dip the roller lightly into the paint, the paint should cover less than half of the roller. Then roll it backward and forwards on the ramp of the tray to evenly distribute the paint on the roller cover.

5. Roll the paint onto the surface in a large zigzag pattern. Then fill in the space with criss-cross strokes.

6. Once you’ve covered the area, level the finish by laying off with long, parallel strokes. Laying off needs to be done before the paint has commenced drying, so it’s best to work in sections at a time.

7. Never leave a paint-covered roller exposed to the air for any length of time. Wrap it in plastic wrap when you take a short break, and make sure to clean it completely after use.

Paint Application Pads

Application pads can be used for cutting in where there are lots of edges to paint around.

1. Simply load the pad with paint using a paintbrush.

2. Place it on the wall, checking the guide wheels are clean and run the wheels along the architrave, skirting or corner.

3. Use long even strokes with firm pressure.