Andrew Cummins, Senior Product Manager at Purdy, highlights attributes to look out for when selecting roller frames and sleeves.
Just as with brushes, the quality and design of a paint roller system can make a big difference to the final finish of a decorating job, as well as the ease and speed of progress. Here’s some things to consider:
Roller frame
When you’re working on a large paint job, selecting a roller frame that is comfortable to use over a long period of time is essential. A lightweight but sturdy roller frame is the ideal solution – look for one with an open cage design that utilises lightweight materials to ensure minimal arm fatigue. An ergonomic handle is also recommended, ideally one with a rubberised grip to stop your hand from slipping – even when sweaty.
Frames designed to reduce sleeve ‘walk-off’ are also worth looking out for. ‘Walk-off’ not only adversely effects productivity, but it can make precision work almost impossible. To avoid this, look for a roller frame with a ridged design at the base of the cage, these allow you to press fit a sleeve, keeping it secure throughout the day.
Adjustable frames are also useful if you’re likely to require a range of different roller sizes over the course of a job, allowing you to seamlessly switch from one size sleeve to another.
Roller sleeve
Roller sleeves vary considerably depending on the type of finish you want and the size of the wall you are working on. However, regardless of the specifics of the sleeve, you should always choose a product made from a good quality fabric that is thermally bonded the core. Quality fabrics will also ensure that the sleeve doesn’t shed lint in your fresh coat of paint which can compromise your finish or result in wasting valuable. Synthetic fabrics offer the best combination of durability and suppleness. Purdy uses a knitted nylon and polyester blend for its Marathon roller, which will provide the same great finish every time, even after 40 hours of use.
The material that the core is made from should also be considered. Cheap cores can often react with the paint you’re using, losing their shape and comprising the finish. To avoid this, look for sleeves with a core made of polypropylene, as this stable material won’t lose its shape.
Poles
Like adjustable frames, an extension pole is a great solution for maximising productivity and versatility without the need for lots of different gear. Fibreglass and aluminium options are preferable to low-quality plastic as they will be able to stand repeated use and adjustment. Quick lock connections that enable faster set up times also help to ensure you can swap out different sized rollers with ease.
Accessories
Finally, selecting the right accessories can also help to make you more efficient and extend the lifespan of your equipment. A simple but effective option is to purchase a bucket or skuttle with a proper lid, allowing you to keep paint in it overnight or between coats, eliminating the time-consuming process of decanting and refilling. Looking for additional features like integrated pouring spouts can also help to make your life easier when you do need to empty your bucket.
Alternatively, liners designed to fit your bucket are a great option if you are going to need to change colours. These remove the need to completely clean your bucket between paints, ensuring you can maximise productivity during the day and tackle cleaning at another time.
Painting multitools are also a great solution for improving efficiency. Tools such as the Purdy Brush and Roller Cleaner simplify the cleaning process with the inclusion of a scraper, so you can remove the excess paint from roller sleeves and return it back to the tin, reducing waste and making your roller easier to rinse clean. Cleaning your roller thoroughly in this way will also help to ensure that it lasts as long as possible and will continue to perform like new, whilst minimising paint wastage.
There are loads of great products out there to help make your job easier and allow you to get the best finish possible with your rollers. However, the simplicity and efficiency provided by a complete roller system from a leading brand will minimise wasted time and help you to get the job done quicker.
For more information on Purdy’s range of roller frames, sleeves and accessories visit: www.purdy.co.uk.
