Red Seal Painter and Decorator Practice Exam

Which type of roller cover is best for textured surfaces?

1. A roller cover with a smooth nap

2. A foam roller cover

3. A roller cover with a thick nap (3/4" to 1")

4. A roller cover with a medium nap

The correct answer is: A roller cover with a thick nap (3/4" to 1")

A roller cover with a thick nap (3/4" to 1") is ideal for textured surfaces due to its ability to reach into the crevices and uneven areas of the texture. The length of the nap increases the surface area of the fiber that makes contact with the painted surface, allowing for better coverage and an even application. This type of roller cover can effectively hold and distribute the paint, ensuring that it adheres well to all the contours of the textured surface. Other types of roller covers, such as those with a smooth nap, are better suited for flat, smooth surfaces and would struggle to provide adequate coverage on textured areas. Foam roller covers are typically used for very smooth finishes and can sometimes lead to issues with paint application on rough surfaces, as they do not provide the necessary texture to catch paint effectively. A medium nap roller cover may offer some versatility, but it would not penetrate and cover as thoroughly as a thick nap roller would on severely textured surfaces. Therefore, using a thick nap roller cover ensures that all aspects of the texture are effectively painted.