Choosing the Right Brush

Paint brushes come in a variety of sizes and styles. Smaller brushes are used for smaller areas and detail work, whereas large brushes are designed for larger projects. Square or flat brushes are available with natural or synthetic bristles. These are generally used for painting around the house because they can cover a large area in less time. Angular or chiseled brushes are available with natural or synthetic bristles. They are designed to use on jobs where cutting-into corners and painting trim, molding, and windows would be required. The filament is the most important part of the brush because it comes in contact with the paint.

Bristle is the most popular natural filament. Bristle brushes are not recommended for use in water-based paints because water absorbs into the bristles and leaves them limp. Bristle is also not good to use on rough surfaces, which can break the "flags" and wear down the brush. Flags are what help hold paint in the brush so it's distributed evenly through the stroke. Bristle works well with oil-based, alkyd paints, stains, varnishes, urethanes, and shellac.

Nylon is a very durable filament and less expensive than natural bristle. Nylon bristles are hollow so they absorb paint and can leak paint even after they have been cleaned. Because of this durability, nylon brushes are great to use on rough surfaces. Use with fast-drying paints like acrylics since they are so easy to clean up after.

Polyester filaments are popular with do-it-yourselfers because of their low price. Polyester brushes do not absorb moisture so they retain their stiffness better than other brushes. They also resist heat so they are good to use in any climate and with all types of coatings. Polyester is stiffer so it has less flex and leaves more brush marks in the coating. Also, it cannot be precisely tipped and is not as easy to clean as nylon.

Nylon/polyester blend is the most popular synthetic paint brush since it combines the best qualities for better performance. Polyester bristles are used in shorter lengths for stiffness when using water-based paints as well as for resistance to heat. The nylon is used in the longer lengths for precise tipping and durability during use.

Choosing the Right Roller

For most walls and ceilings you'll use a paint roller. The best generally have a steel frame, metal cage and threaded handle that can be fitted with an extension pole.

When selecting roller covers, choose shorter naps (3/16" or 3/8") for painting smooth indoor surfaces and longer naps (3/4" or 1-1/4") for rougher surfaces including textured walls, masonry and stucco. Be sure to lightly rub the roller cover with your hands or tape before use. This will get rid of any loose nap. Remove the cover from the roller frame immediately after painting to facilitate cleaning. After you have finished painting with water-based paints, wash the cover with soap and warm water and rinse until clean. For oil base paints, dip the cover into paint thinner such as turpentine or mineral spirits. Never leave covers soaking in water or paint solvent to remove paint. Dry and store covers in a dust-free area when finished.

When to Use Paint Pads

For edging, cutting-in and painting flat trim, foam pads provide a convenient alternative to brushes. Because they’re flat, they leave less surface texture in the paint and they tend not to drip or splatter. Their flexibility also makes them ideal for reaching inside tight areas (like vents and heat registers). Some feature roller wheels that cut in close and give a professionally finished look.