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Paint Design Dilemma

Best roller cover to paint Level-5 smooth walls?

5 years ago

My painter wants to 1st spray paint, then backroll (at least the 1st coat) to integrate the paint into the skim coat. A rolled surface will be much easier to touch up, but I do not want a bunch of stippling. I want high-end tools to yield a high-end result and would appreciate advice from folks with actual experience. - Any advice for which roller to use for a very smooth finish? - Any other advice for painting Level-5 smooth walls? I am using BM Natura Flat on walls and ceiling. Thanks!

Comments (5)

paintguy22
5 years ago
3/8 " is the lowest I would go for flat paint.
Kris Andersen
Original Author
5 years ago
Why? What if it was eggshell or satin?
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paintguy22
5 years ago
Well, if you are looking for very low stipple I would try 1/4" for eggshell. With flat I would be concerned about being able to get an even finish with 1/4" which is why I would go with the 3/8". Normally with flat I use a 3/4" nap and with eggshell 1/2".
Kris Andersen
Original Author
5 years ago
last modified: 5 years ago
Thank you for answering. I’m trying to understand the difference. I guess paint with a sheen covers better than flat? This BM Natura Flat does have a slight sheen to it and it is very thick paint. The painter I had to fire had trouble spraying it, but he had only used SW paint and apparently was not experienced. What’s your opinion of spraying paint and back rolling? And, when you roll, do you roll in one direction and not overlap?
paintguy22
5 years ago
Spraying paint and back rolling is probably the best way to apply the paint evenly. If you are rolling manually out of a bucket or whatever, the time it takes to load the roller with paint is what makes it hard to keep a wet edge, especially if the walls are big. If you can't keep a wet edge, this is how lap lines may show up. If the Natura is washable, it should be just as easy as applying an eggshell. True flat paint doesn't form a washable skin on top of the paint film when it is dry and is filled with cheap fillers like chalk so that is why we use the bigger naps for flats. The best way to roll either paints though is to apply it, and then make your final pass with the roller in one direction top to bottom.
Kris Andersen thanked paintguy22

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