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?

  1. Application of additional paint, or re-brushing or re-rolling, in areas where the paint has partially dried.
  2. "Working" paint too much during application (e.g., applying too quickly or for too long).
  3. Use of the wrong type or nap size of roller cover. Use of the wrong type or size of brush.
  4. Applying too thin of a paint film.
  5. Painting a hot surface or in direct sunlight.
  6. Coating a very porous surface.
  7. 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).     

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