We recently had a contractor come in for his 1-year patch project and he re-mudded all the nail pops and drywall sags. As a result we've repainted the ceiling twice in attempt to cover this effort. Everytime we end up with brush stroke marks and lines on the ceiling. Any advice? I'm using Behr Premium Ceiling Paint.

Thanks in Advance....

 

This is an easy one.
First problem.

Really, brush strokes and lines mean operator problems. Are you using a good roller cover? Should be at least 1/2" nap or bigger. We use a 3/4" on almost everything. Don't over-roll, one roller full will cover maybe 6' square, no more. Ceilings should be done all at once, don't start unless it can be done without stopping in the middle. Learn to 'back-roll' the new strokes into the previous ones to blend in.

 

Heed PWG's remark (he quoted your post).

In addtion to proper, quality tools and quality paints you need to learn good rolling technique.
The brush marks could be 1) cheap brush, 2) using an oil brush for latex paint, 3) over-brushing - probably a combination

The lines can also be caused by uneven roller pressure. A good extension handle helps.

 

try a different paint too
steer away from "CEILING" paint and try a higher end wall paint
I do this on occasion when a particular ceiling paint just wont cover well
a few bucks more in paint might save you hours of headake

 

As indicated, don't cheat on paint quality or rollers. Ceiling should be rolled and edged out with brush. I always edge with a 2" trim brush and a steady hand. Edge as you go so paint will be wet and you can roll into the edging and not leave marks. Learning to roll paint is easy.

Roller covers come in various nap lengths. Your choice depends upon whether the surface to be painted is smooth or if it is more textured. The more textured the surface, the longer the nap should be in order to allow the fibers to push the paint into the crevices onto surface. Don't cheat and buy cheap or low quality applicators. These can make the best quality paint look and perform poorly. Cheap rollers and brushes don't spread the paint evenly. High quality rollers and brushes can be cleaned and used again. always work from the dry area into the adjoining wet paint area. Paint manufacturers tend to recommend the "N" technique when using a roller. Load the roller completely. Apply the paint in the form of an "N" in a 2' x 2' area. Fill in the center of the "N" with horizontal strokes from side to side. Lightly smooth the painted area with vertical strokes from top to bottom. Continue to use the "N" pattern with a freshly loaded roller directly below the first "N", working until you reach the bottom of the wall. Use the same technique as you cross the ceiling. If you need to take a break, cover paint pan with plastic wrap and wrap roller and brushes in plastic wrap or plastic bag. Always paint when temperature is above 55 degrees. You can't clean paint for about 30 days because it takes that long for it to cure. Always read and follow label directions. Drying times between coats may vary from label due to temperature and humidity conditions.