Professional painters will tell you that you get what you pay for with your painting tools

Professional painters will tell you that you get what you pay for with your painting tools. By purchasing higher priced brushes and rollers, you’ll want to protect your investment. Rather than tossing them, clean and store them for use another day. Here’s how to store paint brushes including the dos and don’ts.

Choosing a brush

The quality of your tools will help the outcome of your painting project. Spending a few more dollars on your brushes and rollers, will make a difference in the ease and finished look of your painting.

Types of brushes

Natural bristles come from animal hair, like hog or ox, and are best used for oil-based paints and finishes.
Nylon/polyester blends are a combination of created bristles that work great for latex paint. They are easy to clean, retain their shape and are extremely durable.
Polyester bristle brushes are recommended if you are looking for a smooth, even paint application of latex paint.

Sizes

1 to 2-inch brushes are flat-bottomed, thin, and narrow. They are best used for window sashes and trim.
3-inch brushes are good for doors, wider trim and cabinets.
A 4-inch brush is made for larger surfaces and will hold the most amount of paint for more effective application.n.

End Types

Angled brushes have bristles cut to an angle for vertical trim or corner application.
Chisel Trim is a brush with bristles that are slanted to produce a clean, line mostly used for edging.
Square Trim bristles are cut to a blunt square edge made for application to flat surfaces.

Breaks

If you are mid-project and looking for a short break, or even overnight, it’s a good idea not to clean your brush. Wrap the entire head of the brush or roller in plastic wrap. Make a tight seal and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to paint again. When you take the brush or roller out, allow it time to come to room temperature before you start painting again.

Storing Paint Brushes

When your project is finished, you’ll need to follow these steps for proper storage of your brushes.

Clean your brush thoroughly while it is still wet with paint. Brush excess paint onto the rim of the paint can, or a piece of newspaper.
Wash the brush using water if you are using latex-based paint. If your paint is oil-based, use the appropriate solvent. Follow by rinsing with water.
Slap the brush against a workstation or railing to remove extra water.
Reshape the brush back to a neutral bristle and hang the brush, bristles downward to dry.

If you’re ready to start a paint project but worried about where to start, don’t be! Schedule your free, in-home estimate today to get started.