You’ve probably noticed that we talk about paint a lot on our blog. The best paint for certain applications, which paint is the most beginner-friendly, as well as our guides that help you get the perfect results.
But there’s one constant throughout our painting projects that doesn’t get enough love. So today we’re going to talk all about paintbrushes and why it’s important to pick the ones that work for you.
The Different Types of Paintbrush
For interior and exterior decorating, there is no one-size-fits-all paintbrush. There will always be large, flat areas that benefit from a thicker brush, but on almost every project there will be corners, edges, or hard to reach areas that you won’t be able to access.
Having a selection of paint brushes to hand will prevent any frustration. Instead of trying to make do with an inferior tool, you can switch up your brush selection and keep things running smoothly.
It isn’t just the size that’s a factor either. Sometimes firmer bristles are needed for even coverage. A soft brush can’t spread paint across rough surfaces very well, leading to an uneven finish or one that’s too thin. For painting fences, patio slabs, and stonework, a firm brush gets into every gap, spreading the thicker exterior paint perfectly.
Our shed and fence paint brush is one of the best for the job – the clue is in the name after all! But it’s also a lot more versatile; you can use this fence paint brush on stonework, doors, and even outdoor furniture.
Brushes Vs Rollers
This has been an ongoing debate for a long time now. Some decorators swear by their rollers, avoiding paintbrushes like the plague, and there are just as many who do the opposite. However, the true professionals know that using both is the way to go.
A paint roller is unmatched when it comes to even coverage. As the spongey applicator absorbs paint and then transfers it to the surface, you get even layers with very little effort. You’ll also be using more paint at once, saving you trips to the tin or any back pain as you constantly top up your brush.
For larger projects, a long-handled roller saves the need for ladders – you can reach the top of walls, ceilings, and even the roof of your shed if you position yourself well.
We’d never claim that paintbrushes are better than rollers, but that’s because they’re best used for slightly different painting jobs. As we mentioned, a brush is at its best when getting to the tricky bits a roller can’t reach. Paint rollers can be used for edging, but you won’t always reach into the gaps, especially at the top of your skirting boards or if your fences have a concrete base.
Last but not least is the condition of your brushes. Older brushes will have bristles that clump together, creating an uneven finish, even when you clean them after each job (more about that in a moment). Brushes will last longer than rollers, but most roller sets have additional sponges that you can attach for each job.
We always recommend picking up a new set of brushes before you tackle a big job. If you have your paint ready to go and have the time set aside, but then realise your tools aren’t up to the task, it can cause a major headache.
A paintbrush and roller set will help you cover all bases. For bigger jobs we have larger brushes and rollers, which are worth popping back in the cupboard for your next project. But before you do, you need to make sure they’ve been cleaned properly.
How to Clean Paintbrushes
If you keep your paintbrushes clean, you can rely on them for longer. If your painting project is a multi-day affair, you’ll need to give your brushes a clean, so they aren’t as hard as a rock when you use them next. Some people simply wrap their brushes in plastic and leave them be, but we say this is a mistake.
Instead, give your brushes a thorough clean between painting sessions so there is no risk of the bristles clumping together. Remember that the final layer is the most important to get right, don’t let your brushes be the reason it’s not spot on.
The way you clean your paintbrushes depends on the paint you’re using.
If you’ve been using a water-based paint (most acrylic and emulsion paints are water-based), the process is very simple:
- Scrape off as much excess paint as possible
- Leave in warm water for 2 hours
- Clean with a dry cloth
- Store somewhere dry
Oil-based paints are naturally water-resistant, so you need something more than warm water to remove it:
- Scrape off as much paint as possible
- Leave in a solution of mineral spirits or turpentine (regular paint stripper or white spirit can work too, check the manufacturer’s instructions)
- Dispose of the solution and rinse the brush well
- Clean with a dry cloth
- Store somewhere dry
Cleaning a paint brush can sometimes be time consuming but it’s more than worth the effort. Not only is a clean brush the only way to get a perfect finish, it also saves you money in the long run.
The Best Paint Brushes
No matter what type of brush you need, or which size you prefer, we have a wide selection ready to help your surfaces look fantastic.
Opening a fresh set of brushes and/or rollers is a satisfying way to start a big project, and it’s beneficial for the job itself too. And for the best paint to dunk your brush into, look no further than Paintmaster.
