How to select the correct roller cover for your DIY painting project.

What paint roller cover to use on your DIY painting project may not be the biggest decision you ever make but it is worth a little consideration.

How thick of a (nap) should you use?

In the vast majority of cases a 1/2" nap works the best.
Deeper naps may be needed for a ruff or textured service but for the drywall in your home 1/2" works well.

But what if I am using an eggshell or a satin finish or possibly even a semi-gloss paint?

Yes a 1/2" is still your best overall choice. A 3/8" nap is what many paint suppliers recommend for paints with a (shine) when finished. Their reason is that a 3/8" roller cover leaves less stipple. Giving you a smoother finish.

No matter how little stipple you make with the paint you are applying. The stipple that is already on the wall is still there and will show thru the paint you are applying. So the advantage of less stipple with a low nap roller cover is gone. Secondly a 1/2" roller cover allows you to apply enough paint at one time and avoid over rolling the wall as you try and get enough paint out of the roller cover to cover even a small section of wall.

Most importantly do not buy a cheap roller cover! A quality roller cover is only about $5.00. Money well spent when that junk $2.00 roller cover leaves lint all over your fresh paint.

How to select the correct roller frame.

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