High quality brushes generally have longer bristles and a divider inside to provide a larger paint reservoir for more efficient application of paint, compared with lower quality economy brushes. The ends of the bristles are flagged or split at the tips and the brush is tapered with longer bristles at the centre and shorter bristles to the outside. This means the paint will go on smoother and more evenly. Look for a bare wood handle rather than plastic or painted wood; you'll get a better grip. A rust-resistant metal ferrule that is nailed on instead of crimped to the handle means that you'll shed fewer bristles.

Brushes are available with polyester, nylon or natural bristles. Synthetic bristles are preferred with water-based paints since natural bristles tend to absorb the water in water-based products and lose their shape. Some synthetic brushes are recommended for solvent-based products as well as for water-based coatings. Natural bristle brushes are recommended for solvent-based coatings. Brushes should be pre-primed before use. For painting with water-based products, prime the brush with water. For solvent-based coatings, prime the brush with white spirit. All excess should be removed before dipping the brush into the paint.

Different sized brushes have different functions. Use 30mm to 50mm brushes for trim; 50m to 80mm for doors, 100mm for larger areas such as floors and wall sections, and up to 150mm brushes for broad wall areas.Angular sash brushes are excellent for precise work such as cutting in adjoining surfaces, eg when tackling window frames.

Quality brushes give you a thicker, more uniform paint film for better hiding and durability. And a smooth application will be more resistant to dirt and fungal or algal contamination, than the same paint with brush marks. To sum up a better quality finish.

Quality rollers tend to be thicker and fluffier for greater paint capacity and less dripping and spattering. They also apply the paint thicker and smoother. A higher quality roller will not crack, holds its shape better, does not shed fibres, and is reusable.

For the smoothest application of solvent-based coatings use quality lamb's wool and natural mohair rollers. Synthetic nap rollers are appropriate for water-based paints and some are suitable for solvent-based products. Nap length is also an important consideration. As a rule, short nap rollers from 6mm to 9mm are best for smooth surfaces and long nap rollers from 12mm to 25mm are used for rough masonry.

If your job is appropriate for a paint sprayer choose a good one. Better sprayers offer excellent uniformity of spray for smooth, drip-free application and are generally more reliable in their performance.