Roller Marks, Brush Marks and Stippling
Are you getting paint streaks and roller marks in your paint application? Read on for our guide on how to put down a more professional-looking coating.
DEFINITION
What Are Roller Marks, Brush Marks and Paint Stippling?
This happens when the paint coating fails to dry to a smooth film. You might be seeing unsightly brush and roller marks, or other unintentional textured patterns.
CAUSES
What Causes Brush and Roller Marks?
- Application of additional paint, or re-brushing or re-rolling, in areas where the paint has partially dried.
- "Working" paint too much during application (e.g., applying too quickly or for too long).
- Use of the wrong type or nap size of roller cover. Use of the wrong type or size of brush.
- Applying too thin of a paint film.
- Painting a hot surface or in direct sunlight.
- Coating a very porous surface.
- Use of incorrect rolling technique.
How to Put Down a Smoother Coat
PREPARATION
Before & Between Coats
- Follow label and data page directions for the appropriate environmental conditions.
- Prime or seal porous surfaces.
- Allow the coating to dry thoroughly, then sand the coating smooth, and repaint. Always wait until the paint has dried thoroughly before touching up.
TOOLS
Proper Roller Usage
- Quality rollers generally ensure adequate film (e.g., primer or paint) thickness and uniformity.
- Follow label and data page directions for the appropriate roller cover type and nap size. In general:
- Latex paints use synthetic fiber covers.
- Alkyd/oil paints use lambs' wool, mohair or other natural fiber covers.
- For smooth surfaces, flats and satins use 3/8" covers, while semi-gloss and gloss use 1/4" covers.
- For textured surfaces (depending on the texture), use 1/2", 3/4" or longer.
- When using latex paint, pre-dampen roller covers with water and shake out excess water.
- Condition the roller by wetting it with the paint for 5 minutes prior to using.
- Do not let paint build up at roller ends.
TECHNIQUE
The Right Thickness
- Apply the paint using good painting technique.
- Follow label and data page directions for the appropriate film build (e.g., thickness of each coating layer).