How to choose the right painting tools

Selecting the right painting tools – The best tools for house painting

When you decide to tackle any home improvement project, it can be a daunting task. From purchasing the right tools to understanding their proper uses, we’ve got you covered. Here at CertaPro Painters®, we value helping you find the right information for each DIY painting project you decide to complete at your home. Continue reading below to find a detailed list of what tools you need to paint for your next residential painting project.

Tools for Painting Projects – Brushes

For a seamless painting project, it is imperative that you have the right painting tools. In terms of brushes, different styles work for unique types of paint. Two of the more common paint brush types are natural and synthetic. Each of these can work well when using an oil-based paint.

Natural Hair Bristle Brushes: Work great for projects where an enamel or topcoat is needed.

Synthetic Brushes: These are needed specifically when using any kind of latex coating.

Other Tips for Finding the Right Paint Brush

In general, once you have determined the type of brush you need, you will need to find the right size. With any type of DIY painting project (both interior and exterior), you will need an assortment of brush shapes and sizes. The general rule is to use large brushes for large surfaces and small brushes for smaller areas. For example, you wouldn’t need an extra large brush to paint window frames.

It is also important to make sure you use high-quality paint brushes for any at home painting project. Below are a few of our tips for selecting a quality paint brush.

• A high-quality brush will be longer in the center then it is on the sides. This style of brush will allow for more control when painting.
• You will see that the ends of the brush are split. This allows for an even finish when painting.
• When looking at brushes, you can tug at the bristles to see how well-made a specific style is. If any bristles come out this is a quick sign of low-quality craftsmanship.

Paint Rollers & Their Uses

Paint rollers are used for their ease and ability to cover large parts of the home. A paint roller is often used on interior and exterior walls, and even ceilings. While paint rollers are great for larger areas, trying to use them on small surfaces like trim could be quite messy. For any painting project you will need both brushes and rollers to have an even finish.

When using paint rollers you also need to consider the type of roller cover used for your specific project. If you are using a latex-based paint, synthetic roller covers are recommended. For oil-based paint, both natural and synthetic covers will work great. In addition to the type or roller cover, the length of the cover’s surface can be used to determine what project it would be best for. A smooth surface will need a shorter roller length than a rough surface.

When to Use Paint Pads

Paint pads are only used in areas where brushes and rollers are not the best option. For example, small hard to reach places where walls and ceilings connect may need to be painted with pads. Paint pads can be used with both oil and latex paints. It is not advisable to use paint pads on an entire wall because a textured or not smooth appearance can occur.

Paint Sprayers

Paint sprayers are the best option for a large painting job. A few places these are often used is along home exteriors and when painting kitchen cabinets. Below are some of the different kinds of paint sprayers on today’s market.

Conventional Paint Sprayers: These sprayers use compressed air to move the paint out of the sprayer.  This type of sprayer can be hard to use on a DIY project as attaining even paint coverage can be difficult.

Airless Paint Sprayers: These are powered by electric and are more user friendly for at home painting projects. Often airless sprayers are used for interior painting.

Wheel Around Paint Sprayers: If you are taking on an exterior painting project, these are the best sprayers for the job. Wheel around paint sprayers are often powered by gas or electric.

Other Painting Tools Needed for Residential Painting

In addition to paint applicators, there are other painting tools you will need for any DIY painting project. These paint accessories often include: Painters tape, ladders, tarps, buckets and paint trays, edgers, and drop cloths. When you have all the necessary painting tools for your residential painting project, you will have what you need to succeed. Gathering the correct paint applicators and accessories will help you to have a seamless painting project from start to finish.

Need help with a painting project?

Sometimes large projects are best left to professionals, we are here to help in the event you are looking to hire a crew for your project. Get started by setting up a free estimate appointment with our team.