The Complete Guide to Buying Roof Brushes
It may seem inconsequential, but having the right roof brush can make or break the result of your work on the roof. There are so many options for roof brushes these days that it's hard to know which ones to get. You don't want to buy the wrong brush and risk delaying your progress. Buying roof brushes is one critical detail of a successful roof coating project. Read on for a guide that has everything you need to know to avoid wasting your time and money.
The Length of Brush Handle
First, assess your client's needs and determine how long a brush will be required to reach all the areas of the roof. In addition to length, take note of what the handle is made from. It shouldn't be too heavy and should be strong enough to withstand the force of however you're going to use it.
Some brushes are compatible with telescoping poles or handles. These provide extra extension and have the ability to bend at an angle. They're perfect for cleaning or lighter detail work.
For tougher work like applying a roof coating, you will want a stronger handle than the material telescoping poles are generally made of. These handles are mostly made from wood and don't bend, so you are a little more limited in your options for roof coatings.
For detail work, you will want a much shorter brush handle. This could be a paintbrush size or a palm-sized scrubbing brush. Make sure these handles are straight and strong so you can complete your job with precision.
Go through all the steps of the work you intend to do and think about the different brushes you will need. Each task may require a different style of brush.
The Texture of the Bristles
The next thing to consider is the texture of the bristles. Bristles are the part of the brush that holds the paint, moves the dirt, or applies the coating. Here again, what you need will depend on the job you've been hired to do.
The texture of the bristles will impact how the surface looks once you're done. They are either made from natural fibers or artificial fibers. For the purposes of roof brushes, which option you choose is a personal preference.
Here's what type of bristles to look for depending on what you are doing:
For applying roof coating, the bristles need to be thick and strong and closely grouped together, but not as close as with a paintbrush. You should be able to see small gaps between the bristles. They should also be prickly to the touch, but not pointy or sharp.
For cleaning, short and tough bristles are the most effective. The best of these will be thick and sturdy but have some flexibility. They are not soft but they are not scratchy or sharp.
For any other roofing activity, consider first if a brush is necessary. There are also brooms, rollers, squeegees, and other types of applicators that are sometimes called for. Various roofing brushes are the most popular tool for applying anything or cleaning a roof, but if your task isn't mentioned above, start back at the beginning.
By identifying what type of work you will be doing, you can pin down what type of bristles you want on your roof brushes. From texture to length, to strength and spacing, every detail about the bristles matter. Consider what will be best for your project, your client's needs, and the roof at hand.
How They Feel in Your Hands
Pick up the brush you are looking at and hold it in your hands. As you hold it, make sure it feels good and is easy to use. Test it in both hands and feel the balance in your hands.
You want to have a good grip on your brush to complete your task well. Move your fingers around the handle as you hold the brush to see how the grip feels in different positions. Try it with both hands for more labor-intensive work. Make sure there is no or low risk of splinters in the case of a wooden handle.
You also don't want it to be too heavy. Extend the brush out the full length of your arm to make sure you can hold it up at any length. Pretend to do the action you intend to do with it and make sure it's not too arduous on the arms, shoulders, or back.
Brush weight and usage can have a big impact on the user's body. You should always ensure that the brush you get not only serves your purposes but also compliments your form. This means it won't throw you out of alignment or put undue stress on your body as you use it.
Once you have found a brush that fits the purpose of your project and has the right bristles and the right feel, ensure that it fits your budget.
Maximize Your Budget
If you are on a tight budget, you'll want to set the amount you can spend on brushes early. This way, you can manage your expectations as you search for the right brush.
Single brushes are not very expensive. At Upside Supply, we sell brushes for as little as a few cents, and broom-style brushes for several dollars. Seasoned roofers would tell you to get more brushes than you think you need. Purchasing a higher quantity will generally work in your favor since the price per brush will go down the more you get. Contact us directly for bulk orders.
You'll also want to consider future roof maintenance and jobs. If you foresee needing to return to this job or picking up more jobs like this, you'll want to get multiple brushes. It's also good to be prepared, as you no doubt have come to learn. Getting a variety of brushes ensures you will also have the right tools for the job.
No matter your budget, it's important to get the highest quality brush possible. Especially for painting, but for any project, a poorly made brush will affect the quality of your work. Luckily, even our lowest-priced brushes are made from high-quality material and are all roofer-approved.
Buying Roof Brushes
Now that you understand the important details of roof brush features, review the goals for your project.
Once you know exactly what you need to do, answer these important questions for yourself:
Do you definitely need a brush to complete this project?
How long of a brush handle do you need?
What should the handle be made of?
What type of bristles will work best?
What bristle material do you prefer?
Does the brush feel good in your hands?
Is the brush too heavy or too light to get the job done?
Does it fit within your budget?
How many brushes do you need?
Should you get multiple styles of roof brushes to make sure you are prepared?
Now, you are ready to make your purchase. Reach out to us directly if you are having trouble answering any of these questions. We can help you figure out exactly what you need without blowing your budget.
Ordering With Upside Down Supply
Don't waste time driving up and down the east coast to find the right brushes. Upside Down Supply has a wide variety to fit all budgets and projects. Buying roof brushes has never been more straightforward.
Ordering with us is incredibly easy. Give us a call today or click the Quick Order link at the top right of our website.