As a Professional Decorator, I use lots of different brands of tools. I like to use what I think is best for the different the jobs I carry out. It doesn’t matter how good you are, good tools make a big difference to the overall finish when decorating. I don’t buy into all this, “a proper tradesman can use a bog brush and get a good finish” view that some people have.
It isn’t just about finish; it’s about ease of use too. If you’re up a ladder using a short-pile roller to paint a ceiling with a porous paint like contract matt, then the application will be a nightmare. Your wrists and back will be killing before you’ve finished the first coat, and it’ll take an age!
I’m going to use this blog to explain what I think are the best painting tools for emulsion. I’ll talk through rollers, brushes and sundries.
Best Paint Rollers for Emulsion
Purdy Colossus
Purdy colossus 6 + 12-inch rollers are the best for any porous emulsion like contract matt, or when painting ceilings. The 6-inch was my game changer the first time used it few years ago. Great for cutting and rolling small areas. The Purdy 12-inch roller is great for bigger areas, walls, and ceilings.
Both rollers hold a huge amount of paint and spread it so well. You can use 1 inch nap on smooth/semi smooth surfaces. Purdy Colossus paint rollers are also easiest roller to wash out after painting.
I have also used the Purdy Colossus 18-inch roller, which was also great for large ceilings. If you’re using colossus for a first time, make sure to wash it properly before use, as it will lose nap.
Today it’s hard to find 1/2 or 3/4 nap, but even 1″, which is dedicated to semi rough and rough surfaces. These will give you good finish on smooth walls in no time. Available online by clicking here.
Hamilton Perfection
Hamilton Perfection Medium Pile is the most popular roller for emulsion amongst Decorators in the UK. It’s very reasonably priced, manufactured in Britain, and leave a fantastic finish that is free of orange peel.
It holds a lot of paint compared to other medium pile rollers on the market. You might use a roller like this when painting with vinyl and durable emulsion paints.
Best Paint Brush for Emulsion
Purdy Monarch Elite
I want to mention the Purdy Monarch Elite stiff paint brush- As a Purdy guy, I do love this paint brush for emulsion.
It holds a good amount of paint, gives a nice finish, and is perfect for cutting. I like it because it holds its shape well and doesn’t warp when you’re using it. The other reason I like it is because it’s versatile. I know we’re focusing on tools for emulsion, but the Purdy Monarch Elite can also be used for water-based and oil-based woodwork paint, and even stains and varnishes. One brush is all you need for your entire paint job. Available online here.
Axus Décor Silk Touch
This is a fantastic paint brush, and one I’ve been using for a while now. It’s a lot softer than a Purdy Monarch Elite, but still holds its shape. The amount of paint it holds is astonishing, and the bristles seem to find the best line when you’re cutting in, meaning they’re very easy to work with.
The bristles are chemically flagged (split at the end). This makes them very soft at the end of the tip, which helps to avoid brush marks. They’re quick and easy to wash out too. Axus Décor Silk Touch brushes really are fantastic when used in emulsion.
Other Tools you Need for Applying Emulsion
The other tools you need for emulsion are fairly generic, so I figured a quick list, and brief description might be more useful than going into great detail.
Floor covering
Most people use dust sheets, and the best are thick cotton twill sheets as they don’t allow paint to soak through. I sometimes use a product called CoverLay instead, which is good when you have a full room to paint, and the work is going to span several days.
Paint scuttles
A paint scuttle is a sort of cross between a roller tray and a bucket. Most Decorators use scuttles rather than paint trays because they hold more paint and they’re less messy.
Roller pole
A pole is a godsend when using a roller. You’ll find it quicker and easier to apply the paint, and you’ll achieve a better finish. Roller poles either come with a screw or push fitting. You can use one brand of pole with a different brand of roller, providing they both have the same type of fitting.
FAQs
What is the best tool for emulsion paint?
You’ll need a paint brush to cut in around the edges of your walls and ceilings, and a good roller to fill in the middle. You’ll also need floor protection, a roller pole, and a paint scuttle.
How do I get a smooth finish with emulsion paint?
Use good-quality tools, sand the surface before you start, and dilute your paint slightly to reduce roller and brush marks. A good quality paint also helps to achieve a good finish.
Is it better to paint with a pad or roller?
It’s better to use a roller than it is a paint pad. A paint pad drags the paint along the surface, leaving a horrible streaky finish. It’s difficult to use too.
How many coats of emulsion should a wall have?
Two coats are normally enough, providing you’re using good tools and a trade quality paint. Bare plaster can sometimes take a mist coat, followed by two topcoats.
Is a foam roller good for emulsion?
Foam rollers are used for products like oil-based gloss. Microfibre rollers are best for emulsion.
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