These are available from all DIY stores and as you would expect are the cheapest options available, often 3 for less than a few pounds. Roller trays are plastic dishes which have paint tipped in to one end. The roller is dipped in the paint and the surplus paint removed by running the roller up and down the trays flat sloped surface. Additionally, to make cutting in easier, sometimes it’s better to also cover any exposed edges such as skirting or architrave with masking tape, more can be found here in our project on masking up. Types of Paint Roller Pile (Nap) With exceptional levels of absorbancy, you don't need to dip a lambskin roller as often as other types of roller, speeding up the painting process. Some manufacturers claim that their lambswool rollers reduce application time by up to 30%.

The lambskin roller doesn't only excel with solvent-based applications. Its exceptional level of absorbency allows it to hold high solid coatings, emulsions and other low VOC finishes. Although not exactly a paint roller, they do kind of work in a similar way hence the reason we are mentioning them. Foam roller sleeves are ideal for use with water-based paints and other similar thinner paints. As the natural pours that appear in the surface of foam are extremely fine they produce a very flat and even finish with minimal roller marks. Extended Pole: Although not actually a roller, but more of an addition. Most roller frames have hollow, or threaded handles. This allows you to insert or screw on an extension pole into the handle to reach high ceilings or the top of tall wallsAlthough most different roller sleeves fall under the umbrella of either synthetic or natural as each is either made from a synthetic or natural material, we have mentioned them here so that we can give a general overview of what type of painting each is suited for. Standard Roller Frame: The standard roller frame either features a frame and end caps or a straight bar that the roller sleeve slots on to. Available in a range of sizes from 9 to 18 inches It is easier to clean a sheepskin roller. One issue that painters and decorators encounter frequently is that of buying new tools after a short while. A painter using a sheepskin roller can make the most out of it by cleaning it after painting. Painters can use their rollers for other projects without worrying about uneven paintwork. It is due to the ability of the rollers to regain their original shapes after cleaning. That resilience is what painters still appreciate in the rollers.

A lambskin roller may be more expensive than synthetic options, but it's a better investment than any of its rivals. Its unique properties give rise to capabilities that will save you time and produce a superior finish. And if you're still not swayed, lambswool is a sustainable material - choose it for the environment. Long Pile: Best used on very uneven or textured surfaces such as pebble dash render and the similarSheepskin Rollers Sheepskin rollers have many fine qualities, but new synthetics — cheaper and more consistent — are nipping at their heels. As opposed to having bristles or moving parts, a paint pad is essentially a sponge fixed to a base and a handle. Once dipped in paint, the sponge is then run over the surface to be painted, leaving the paint on the wall. As it’s a sponge you get a nice even and consistent finish