Albany Roller Maintenance

Following these steps before, during and after using your Albany paint roller will help you achieve improved performance and extend its useful life.

1. Before first use: 

• - Rinse to remove excess fibres.
• - Always refer to the coating manufacturer's application instructions.

2. For best results: 

• - Before each use, for water-based coatings wet with water and for solvent-based coatings wet with the coating manufacturers' recommended cleaning agent (do not wet foam or flocked rollers with white-spirit).
• - Remove excess for a slightly damp, primed state.
• - Avoid using water-based and solvent-based coatings with the same roller.

3. Short breaks: 

During short breaks, wrap the roller in an air-tight material such as a plastic bag to slow the hardening of the coating.

4. Cleaning: 

• - Immediately after use scrape off excess paint. For water-based coatings wash with water and for solvent-based   coatings wash with the coating manufacturers' recommended cleaning agent (do not wet foam or flocked rollers with     white-spirit).
• - Rinse thoroughly with water and use a towel to remove excess.
• - Spin to shape, stand on end and dry naturally.
• - Never soak, use hot water, or apply direct heat.
• - For faster and easier cleaning, we recommend a routine using a paint roller cleaning system that applies centrifugal   forces.

5. Storage: 

Once dry, place your roller in a protective cover and store it in a dry, dust-free place.

6. Best practice to preserve the performance of your Albany roller:

• - Do not use white spirit, paint stripper, or cellulose thinners for cleaning foam-based rollers; this will likely cause   deterioration and product defects.
• - Do not use washing machines, as they cannot clean rollers in a manner consistent with our guidance and will likely   cause product defects.
• - Citrus cleaners (e.g. Viro-Sol) can cause deterioration and should be avoided.

7. Environmental awareness: 

• - Many coatings are pollutants and are toxic to the environment. Waste water must never enter surface water drains as it can poison aquatic animals and plants without treatment.
• - It's best practice to have a designated cleaning area for washing painting equipment. For water-based paints, use one water container to clean your rollers and another to rinse. Water from the second (rinsing) container can later be reused for cleaning rollers. Allow the solids to settle (water separation agents are available) in the base of the container, and then appropriately dispose of the clear water. Use a paper towel to wipe out the paint solids from the container and dispose of them appropriately when dry.

8. How do I return a defective roller? 

If you're disappointed after following this guidance, please discuss the circumstances of your return with the branch you purchased from (contact available here). For further support, please call 0845 504 5040 or email help@brewers.co.uk