Should You Use Paint Rollers or Paint Brushs?

Most interior paints on the market today can be applied with either a paint brush or a paint roller and we use both in our projects, depending on the wall texture and the effect we want to achieve.

However, if you are considering a DIY paint job, it is important to understand that brushes and rollers have two very different functions.

Choosing the right tool is an important step in making your painting look better and more efficient - here are some facts to help you decide which painting tool to use.

The Beech Handle Round Paint Brush

Brushes

The oldest and most popular painting tool because it is small, precise and flexible, perfect for painting details, edges and areas that need more attention.

Brushes are often used to cut in and out of smaller and more detailed areas, including trims, corners and edges, and to create textural effects using brush strokes.

A wide range of paint brush sizes and types are available: narrow brushes for painting seams and niches, wide brushes for edges and larger surfaces, and 'radiator brushes' for corners; medium stiff brushes are used to cover corners, while soft corner brushes are best for detail.

Purple Filament Chalk Paint Brush

In addition, different brushes are used depending on the type of paint: nylon or polyester brushes for latex (water-based) paints, and natural brushes for oil-based paints, varnishes and stains.

However, it is important to know that painting with brushes is not economical as you will need more paint; therefore, we do not recommend painting with brushes on large, smooth areas as incorrect use of brushes can lead to streaks and marks.

Tips for choosing brushes.

To allow the painting to pass through at a normal flow rate and for the layers to lay gently and evenly on the surface, it is best to choose a brush that is split. The fibres should be flexible, not break under pressure, thick at the base and soft and thin at the end.

It is best to use brushes with bristles at least one and a half times as long as they are wide for painting work. Brushes bought in shops must be treated with a soapy solution to remove dust, debris, grease and broken bristles. Always dry brushes before painting floors or ceilings.

High Imitation Bristle

Rollers

Rollers provide thin, even, uniform coats and are ideal for painting large, smooth and well-prepared walls, ceilings and large furniture. A roller is more economical to use than a brush because its porous surface holds more paint and distributes an even layer of paint more quickly.

The smoother the wall, the shorter the filament length should be (approx. 10 mm), but it is usually best to use a roller with a longer filament. You can use different rollers to achieve different finishes: smooth surface rollers for a smooth finish, thick or fluffy surface rollers for a more textured finish. There are many types of roller available: plastic rollers for water-based paints, natural fibre rollers for solvent-based paints and sponge rollers for oil-based paints.

The most effective technique when applying paint with rollers is the "letter V" - it allows you to cover large surfaces evenly and quickly. To prevent unsightly streaks, do not press the roller too hard against the surface.

Synthetic Filament Round Paint Brush

Rollers or brushes

The comparison begins with the fact that a roller and a brush are not mutually exclusive things. In order to carry out a qualitative painting, both the first and the second need to be present. The more correct question is - what is more effective in a painter's work? In what situations is it worth using this or that tool?

Some hints for making the right choice.

The larger the area - the more efficient it is when using a roller.

The roller can be used to paint a surface almost without leaving the place. The brush needs to simplify access to the work surface.

The roller requires a special tray and container to store the paint. This is not only an additional expense, but also an inconvenience for the painter who is supposed to keep several items at once while working rather than a brush.