Nothing screams “amateur” more than paint roller fade marks! Yes, these marks are pretty embarrassing and do not complement your DIY painting. So, will these ugly marks fade with time?
Unfortunately, paint roller marks do not fade. Instead, you must sand the wall and apply a fresh coat of paint. If the patterns persist, you’re probably using the wrong paint shade or type of paint.
But not to worry. Using the correct painting technique that we detail below can help you prevent the need for repainting the entire wall. And if you do need to repaint, we’ve got directions for you in this article, too.
Why Does Paint Leave Roller Marks?
Why am I getting roller marks when painting? You are not alone if you have ever asked this question. Most new DIY painters face this issue for the following reasons:
Paint roller marks occur when there’s not enough paint on the roller;
Painters may also see paint roller brush marks when applying a second coat of paint before the first coat completely dried;
Using inconsistent pressure can also cause these marks.
What’s more intriguing? Paint roller marks are pretty common during painting, irrespective of your expertise. Thankfully, it’s not a severe problem, as you will see in the following sections.
Will Roller Marks Go Away When Paint Dries?
Generally, the roller marks will remain when the paint dries. Although the ridges and stipples may flatten once the paint dries, you will always see the marks after painting.
Can You Fix Paint Roller Marks?
Do you sigh when you see paint roller marks over your wall? Perhaps, you try to ignore it as best you can. Here’s what you need to erase those marks:
Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies
First, you need to get a paint color similar to the first coat. Also, get a paint tray and roller to start the process. Pay much attention to the consistency of the paint to avoid an uneven second coat.
Step 2: Sand Down the First Coat
Ensure the first coat is dry. Then, use sandpaper to smoothen the first coat. Don’t apply too much pressure to avoid damaging the primer.
Step 3: Apply a Fresh Coat
Immerse the roller in paint and ensure it’s completely wet and dripping. Apply it slowly, and don’t be afraid to use more paint. You will need more paint once you notice gaps on the wall while rolling.
Use paint additives such as floetrol for water-based paints and penetrol for oil-based paints.
How to Paint Without Leaving Roller Marks and Streaks
There’s a trick to painting like a professional, even if it’s your first time. You get to avoid those unsightly roller marks and streaks via these steps:
Step 1: Use High-Quality Equipment
This is not the time to buy cheap and low-quality equipment. Remember, a high-quality roller will hold more paint, paint evenly, and give a better finish than low-quality ones. Also, invest in a tray, extension pole, roller cover, and frame.
Low-quality paint does not stick well and may produce uneven coats. So, save yourself the stress of scraping off inferior paint by going for high-quality ones from reputable brands.
Step 2: Paint on an Even Surface
Patch all holes and dents before you apply a primer. Furthermore, paint over the patch holes to get an even coat.
Step 3: Paint the Edges Using a Preferred Brush
Use your preferred paintbrush to paint the wall edges before using a roller. Furthermore, paint the edges around wall sockets and light switches.
Step 4: Use the Right Roller
Here’s a general rule: Use small rollers for tight areas and bigger ones for a large surface. Furthermore, you can follow these guidelines when selecting a paint roller for DIY painting.
Use 6-8mm nap covers for semi-gloss and gloss paints.
Use 10-12mm nap covers for flat and low sheen paints on indoor and outdoor walls.
20-32mm nap covers are perfect for painting rough surfaces such as concrete walls.
Step 5: Rinse Roller Before Use
Always rinse new rollers in water when painting with water-based paints. Use turps to rinse solvents for oil-based paints. This will help to remove dust and loose fibers from the roller. Furthermore, lubricate the handle joint if it’s an old roller.
Step 6: Use the Roller in an Upward Direction
Use a bigger roller to hold more paint and for a faster paint job. So, load the roller with paint and instead of applying downward pressure, roll it upward, followed by “w” or “n” brush strokes. You may cover a square meter with a roller load to get an even coat.
Step 7: Apply Moderate Pressure on the Roller
The paint might start to create streaks on walls if you apply extra pressure on the roller. A little practice is the secret of roller mark-free paint. Use a small surface to test your painting skills by finding the right pressure point.
Additional Tips to Prevent to Prevent Paint Roller Marks in DIY Painting
After reading through the steps to properly apply paint, you may be wondering: What else can you do to ensure you create smooth, beautiful walls?
Do not overload your paint tray with paint. This prevents spillages and enables you to saturate your roller with pigment.
Work fast enough to prevent your paint from drying out during painting.
If you decide to take a short break during painting, place your roller in the tray and cover it with a polythene bag. This will keep your roller wet and ready to use again.
Try to start rolling as close to the floor to ceiling as possible. You may paint around the floor or ceiling edge to make your job easier and mark-free.
Paint over the edge roller marks while the paint is still wet. This saves you the stress of applying an even coat over the entire surface.
What’s more? Paint the entire wall or a well-defined section before taking a break. Then, return to smoothen it out.
Conclusion: Will Paint Roller Marks Fade?
Although paint roller marks don’t fade, you can prevent them easily whenever they come up in DIY painting. All you need is to follow the guide and create a masterpiece in your painting tasks. Remember to paint consistently to get that “professional feel” for home decors.
