Roller painting a door.
Roller painting a door.

FOR SURFACES SMOOTH AS CAN BE

On smooth surfaces, you want a shorter nap length that’ll cover things evenly and easily. A ⅜" nap will do the trick, getting you a smooth, shed-resistant finish. If you’re using a premium paint like Valspar Reserve®, a microfiber cover is your best bet. Otherwise, knit and woven covers are available.

 

If you’re working with ultra-smooth surfaces, like cabinets, doors, or metal, an even shorter nap – like ¼" – is a good idea. It’ll help you get the smoothest results possible.

ADDING SOME INTERIOR TEXTURE

To get into every last inch of a textured surface, a longer nap can help. We recommend using a ½" nap in either a knit or woven cover – it’s perfect for the light textures of some walls and ceilings, concrete, and decks.

Professional painter painting an interior wall using a beige color.
Professional painter painting an interior wall using a beige color.
Roller painting a wall.
Roller painting a wall.

TACKLING EXTERIOR TEXTURES

For rough surfaces, bring out the tough stuff: a long, ¾" nap. That length of cover will do a great job of getting deep into the texture of surfaces like stucco, decks, and masonry with minimal effort.

DON’T RUSH PAST BRUSHES

Rollers are great for covering a lot of ground quickly, but you’ll need a brush, too. Check out our brush guide, so you’ll know what your options are for your next project.

Brush
Brush