How to Use a Roller to Apply Semi-Gloss Paint

Prepare the Surface

• 1

  Remove furniture from the work area or cover it with drop cloths. Protect the floor or carpeting with drop cloths.

• 2

  Sand the surface, as needed, to remove obvious bumps and blemishes.

• 3

  Clean the surface with a damp rag to remove excess dirt, grease and dust. Allow the surface to dry completely.

• 4

  Apply 2 coats of primer to the surface. Allow the primer to dry completely between coats. Priming is especially important if you are painting a bare surface, a dark-colored surface or a glossy surface.

Rolling the Surface

• 5

  Open the paint can and stir the paint thoroughly. Pour the paint into the 5-gallon bucket. Insert the bucket screen.

• 6

  Use a paintbrush to paint any areas a roller cannot reach such as corner joints and ceiling seams.

• 7

  Push the roller cover onto the paint roller frame. The low nap cover will provide a smooth finish for the semi-gloss paint. Screw the extension onto the handle if needed for high areas.

• 8

  Load the roller cover with paint. Dip the roller approximately 1/2 inch into the paint. Roll it against the bucket screen to distribute the paint. Repeat the process 5 to 6 times. Subsequent loadings will only need 2 to 3 dips.

• 9

  Hold the roller so the frame is on the opposite side of the adjoining wall. This will prevent accidental scratching.

• 10

  Begin at the lower edge of a corner. Using a smooth and consistent pressure, roll the paint roller upward at a slight angle away from the corner joint. Get as close to the ceiling as possible and roll straight down, getting as close to the bottom as possible. Roll straight up and down, from ceiling to floor, and work your way back to the corner.

• 11

  Reload the paint roller. Hold the roller with the open side facing the freshly painted area.

• 12

  Begin 3 or 4 feet away from the freshly painted area. Repeat the process, working towards the freshly painted edge. Without reloading the roller, continue to roll over the previously painted surface. This will blend the paint.

• 13

  Continue the process until your project is completed.