Brush Painting vs. Roller Painting

Brooklyn, Manhattan, New York / Middletown NJ

Many of our clients’ older homes will specify to have their ceilings and walls brushed on instead of rolled on, using a paint roller. As the paint roller is a modern invention, post-war, it produces its signature look of a light stipple or smooth orange peel. We find this application of brushing using large, wide brushes to yield interesting and subtle results. While it is a vastly more historically appropriate finish, it lends itself well to creating a unique country home look with a slightly rustic influence. Whether or not doors and woodwork should be brushed or rolled out, we always say brushed unless the door is a completely flat panel, then perhaps yes.