In the arsenal of each builder or master for the execution of finishing operations, tools for painting work are certainly provided . The design of traditional rollers is still in demand despite the dominance of more technological paint machines. With the help of a maneuverable manual assistant, the master can perform operations in complex areas, as well as timely correct mistakes made in the process of performing paintwork. At the same time, it cannot be said that the paint roller is not at all being improved. Of course, the elementary device of this tool remains its main advantage, due to which high ergonomics are achieved. Nevertheless, the market offers a wide range of roller models that differ in shape, size and materials of manufacture.
General arrangement of paint rollers
The design basis of almost all versions is represented by a handle with a plastic handle. A metal rod departs from it, on which the working part of the tool is fixed - a cylinder with a fur coat. There are many varieties of materials that are used in the manufacture of this nozzle. Depending on the purpose, the paint tool may also include additional devices that expand its functionality. It is important to note that convenience in the process of working to a large extent depends on the characteristics of a particular device. For example, coating with several types of paints and varnishes should be done with different rollers, because any contact between foreign solutions and emulsions can spoil the result of painting work.
Roller Dimensions
In sizing, attention should be paid to three main values. First of all, this is the length of the pile. This parameter determines how effectively the coat will absorb and give paint or other composition. For example, a paint roller, the pile sizes along the length of which vary from 10 to 12 mm, can be used in coating smooth surfaces with a finishing coat. Models with this parameter of 15-20 mm are recommended for working with rough and problematic surfaces. Typically, in such cases, protective and dispersion formulations are used.
The next characteristic that you should pay attention to is the thickness of the handle connecting the handle and cylinder. The convenience of the work depends on it. In the standard, this value varies from 6 to 8 mm. For example, the Stayer paint rollers in the Dualon series are equipped with rollers with a handle thickness of 8 mm and a cylinder diameter of 30-48 mm. And another important parameter is the width of the roller, which on average it is 20-25 cm.
Material classification of rollers
In the manufacture of fur coats for rollers, different materials are used, among which the following are most popular:
- Polyamide. This is a fiber of artificial origin, which has good retention properties. Using a fur coat of this material, it is possible to realize the optimal distribution of paint on the working surface with high chemical resistance.
- Foam rubber. By its origin refers to polyurethanes. The advantages that a foam roller possesses include elasticity and quick shape recovery. It should also be borne in mind that this material does not combine well with aggressive chemical components, but, provided that a suitable choice of paint is used, it ensures uniformity of coating without bubbles.
- Velours. Such a fur coat is provided with a fabric base with a pile based on polyamide fibers. This option is good because it does not roll, and does not spray the mass for application. It is recommended for use for the final painting of smooth areas.
- Natural fur. Sheepskin is usually used in the manufacture of fur coats, which is characterized by excellent absorbency and the ability to effectively distribute the composition over the working surface. You can use the fur roller on any surface by applying oil paints, enamels and varnishes. However, it is better not to combine lime mortars with such a roller, since the fur is destroyed by contact with lime.
Classification by type of fur coat fastening
There are three ways to fix the fur coat to the base of the tool - these are models with glued and hot-glued fastenings, as well as modifications with replaceable nozzles. In the first case, fixation is achieved by elementary bonding of the base with fibers to the core. Usually in this way a foam roll is made that is not designed for long-term operation. The process of creating hot-glued models involves the use of thermal welding of a fur coat on the base. In this case, a tape with fibers is wound on a tube with a hot surface, as a result of which a monolithic bundle of a fur coat and a roller is formed.
Models with replaceable fur coats are versatile and practical. Installation of the working element on a paint roller of this type is carried out using special plugs. First, the excess fur coats are driven along the length into the base of the tube, and then fixation with a cotter pin and bushings takes place.
Intended classification
As an entry level, it is worth considering a variety of mini-rollers. These are small devices with rollers, the width of which rarely exceeds 15 cm. Such models are recommended for painting in hard-to-reach places or for small amounts of work. However, the standard paint roller was most widely used. The types of fur coats in this case are used without exception, and the sizes can be different. Such a roller can be used to paint a flat surface, and provide protection for weakly-relief areas, as well as alignment using a water-based emulsion solution. In professional circles, facade models are more in demand, the fur coats of which are usually made of fur with a pile of about 20 mm. With the help of such a roller, it is possible to perform not only typical painting tasks, but also qualitatively cover large areas of problem surfaces.
Choosing the best paint roller
When choosing the right tool, it is important to strike a balance in providing two opposing qualities. In particular, the roller must hold the dye mass on its fibers, but it is easy to give it to the working surface. In order not to make a mistake in this choice, it is necessary to take into account both the properties of the coloring composition and the operational characteristics of the fur coat. For example, fur paint rollers are best suited for paints and varnishes, models made of polyester perform their function well in working with water-based solutions, and velor tools are suitable for water-dispersed and alkyd compositions.
Auxiliaries for painting
In such a responsible and delicate operation can not do with one roller. First of all, a paint container should be provided. The traditional way of dipping an instrument into a bucket is irrational and wasteful. It is better to purchase a special bath for this purpose, divided into two parts. It will also be useful to prepare a paint brush. Although the paint roller, in theory. should replace its function, in some situations it is more convenient to use a more compact tool. For example, not a single fur coat will paint over the corners as qualitatively as a brush does. To extend the functionality of the roller will help and the handle-holder, with which you can get to remote areas. In addition, it is worth noting the need for personal protective equipment - the traditional set of painters in this part includes a respirator, glasses and gloves.
Rules for using the roller
From the outside, the implementation of this procedure seems simple and easy. But to obtain high-quality coating, several important rules of painting should be considered. Begin work from the light source so that there are no noticeable transitions. In this case, the joints, corners and transition zones are painted over in the first place. The uniformity of the application of paint is ensured not only during the painting process - for example, after dipping the roller into the composition, it is necessary to draw it along the ribbed surface. This will apply a coat of paint without streaks and smudges. Use the paint tool carefully, without jerking and strong pressure. The direction of movement of the roller should be the same - this will also increase the uniformity of the coating and minimize the risk of defects.
Conclusion
Painting work is considered one of the most difficult stages of decorating. Typically, in operations where high precision handling of the tool is required, automated technical means are used. This area is not without such devices, but they do not always provide a decent result. This increases the value of the work of masters who use the paint roller in one form or another as the main tool. Even spray guns, which are easy to apply, lose to traditional devices in a number of operational parameters. And this is not to mention the advantages of the roller in terms of economy. Firstly, this is one of the cheapest options from the entire range of painting tools. Secondly, it practically does not require maintenance.