Paint roller covers vary in their composition, density, nap, and application.
Foam roller covers are best for applying gloss or semi-gloss paints, and leave no lint or stipple behind. Water-based and solvent-based adhesives and epoxies work better with synthetic rollers that have a short 1/8 inch nap and a smooth surface. Polyurethane foam roller covers work well with paint, varnish, and epoxy.
Roller Cover Types
Smooth
For use with topcoats and boat bottom paint. Example: Redtree White Roller Cover with smooth 1/4" nap.
Semi-Smooth, Medium Nap
For use with bottom paint, epoxy, varnish, and urethane. Example: Redtree Pink Roller Cover with semi-smooth 3/8" nap.
Rough, Long Nap
For use with flat paint. Example: Redtree Tan Roller Cover with rough 3/4" nap.
Wooster Super Doo-Z, Medium Nap
For general use with paint, enamel, stain, and primer.
Carpet Texture
For use on fiberglass. The brown carpet texture roller cover is a stiff applicator for use when a textured finish is desired.
Mohair
For use with enamel, varnish, and urethane coatings. Example: Redtree Deluxe Mohair Rollers.
Synthetic, Short Nap
For use with water-based and solvent-based adhesives and epoxies. Example: Arroworthy's The Applicator Roller Cover.
Black Foam
For all smooth surfaces. Ideal for the application of enamel, latex, stain, oil paint, and varnish. NOT FOR shellac and lacquer. Example: Jen Poly-Rollers.
Yellow Foam
For use with gloss or semi-gloss coatings. Example: Arroworthy Epoxy-Plus Roller Cover.