The type of brush you use to apply stain or paint to a surface can have a significant impact on the results of the job. It is important to understand the chemistry of the paint or stain you use to select the proper application tool.
Understanding the features of the application tool is also important. At Pro Roller Company, we offer several different paint brushes and rollers for various painting and staining applications.
Stain Brushes
Paint consists of pigment combined with binders. Stain consists of oil and pigment. It is not feasible to use large painting brushes with boxes, and big ferrules. However, they are ideal for applying stain. When the stain is applied it must be worked into the surface and allowed to soak into the surface. A bristle brush is ideal for applying stain. Other options include a foam brush or cloth.
Using a Bristle Brush for Staining
The advantage of using a bristle brush for staining is that it can carry a large amount of stain which allows for fast, full coverage. This is ideal, particularly when staining softwoods that absorb a significant amount of stain during the application process. Watch out for drips, runs, and brush marks when using a bristle brush.
When applying stain with a bristle brush, use a natural bristle brush for oil-based stains and a synthetic brush for water-based stains. Let the stain settle on the wood for the time designated on the can – usually a few minutes. Use a lint-free cloth to remove any excess stain making sure to wipe in the direction of the wood grain.
Paint Brushes
The ideal choice for a paintbrush depends in part on whether you are painting with oil-based or latex paint.
Using Paint Brushes for Latex Paint
Latex paint consists of binders that help it stick to the surface and provide a sheen (reflective finish), pigment to give it color, and water as the solvent that keeps the compounds mixed.
Polyester or nylon brushes work well with latex paints. On the other hand, natural bristle brushes tend to absorb the water in the latex paint, making them stiff and impractical to use even after they are cleaned.
Using Paint Brushes for Oil-Based Paint
Latex paints are sufficient for most DIY projects. However, you may want to use oil-based paint if you are painting a set of stairs or a floor. A natural bristle brush works well with oil-based paints if you clean the brush thoroughly with the paint thinner. Do not use a nylon bristle brush with oil-based paints unless you will have the time to thoroughly clean the brush immediately after you are finished using it.
For information about the various paint brushes and rollers we offer at Pro Roller Company, call us today at 800.325.9561 or use our contact form to leave us a message.
