very narrow paint roller
I have to paint behind a glass screen which cant be removed . The gap is around 1.5inches which is about the diameter of the smallest paint roller that I can see...which wouldnt work without getting paint on the glass. Do you know of a smaller one? Its not the length of the roller thats the problem its the diameter. thanks
Advice from 18 local tradespeople
Yes — you can get very small “radiator rollers” or mini foam rollers with a much smaller diameter, designed for tight gaps like behind radiators or screens. A small foam brush or paint pad may also work better and help avoid getting paint on the glass.
paint behind a fixed glass screen with a 1.5-inch (approx. 38mm) gap, you should use a 2-inch mini roller or a specialized thin-profile paint pad. Standard mini rollers are often too bulky, but several options are specifically designed for tight spaces like this.
Try using a paint pad as there flat and you can attach an extension pole to get behind the smallest gaps
Some specialty rollers are designed for edges or trim work and they can be as narrow as 1 inch. Also use an extension handle. For best results protect the edges of the glass screen with painter’s tape
Mister Rui 2" Mini Foam Paint Roller Set — extremely narrow foam roller (? 2? wide), probably the smallest diameter roller you’ll find. Good for very tight gaps such as between a wall and a glass screen.
Hamilton For The Trade 4" Mini Medium Pile Roller Set — a classic “mini-roller” (about 4? wide) that tradesmen commonly use for behind radiators, inside cupboards or any narrow space where a standard roller won’t fit.
Axus 4" Mini Paint Roller Frame and Sleeve — another compact roller set that gives you a smaller diameter and should reduce the risk of accidentally getting paint on the glass while accessing the wall behind it.
Wooster Jumbo-Koter Red Feather 4.5" Mini Roller Sleeve — a mini roller sleeve for detail work, good if you need a small-diameter tool but want a more controlled, smooth finish on a plastered wall.
Protect the glass, pop into leylands , brewers and and grab small brush, just do go too thick
You won’t find rollers thinner than ~1.5", but you can use a mini paint pad, radiator brush, or artist’s brush to reach that gap without hitting the glass.
I use the brush.
To effectively paint behind a glass screen with a 1.5-inch gap, you'll need a miniature paint roller with a small diameter. Here are some options that should fit your requirements:
Coral Max Coat 1.5" Mini Roller Kit
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4" x 1/4" Shed Resistant White Woven Mini Roller (2-Pack)
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1.5" Wide Mini Paint Rollers at Lowe's
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Mini Paint Rollers at The Home Depot
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Among these options:
Coral Max Coat 1.5" Mini Roller Kit: This kit includes a 4-inch roller with a 1.5-inch diameter, suitable for tight spaces.
Coral Tools Ltd
4" x 1/4" Shed Resistant White Woven Mini Roller (2-Pack): These 4-inch rollers have a 1/4-inch nap, ideal for smooth finishes in confined spaces.
The Home Depot
1.5" Wide Mini Paint Rollers at Lowe's: Lowe's offers various mini paint rollers with a 1.5-inch width, suitable for narrow gaps.
Lowe's
Mini Paint Rollers at The Home Depot: The Home Depot provides a selection of mini paint rollers, including 1.5-inch wide options, ideal for tight spaces.
The Home Depot
Tips for Painting in Tight Spaces:
Use a Narrow Roller: Opt for a roller with a smaller diameter to fit into the gap without touching the glass.
Apply Light Coats: Use a light touch to avoid excess paint that could spill onto the glass.
Protect the Glass: Consider masking the glass with painter's tape and plastic sheeting to prevent accidental splashes.
Use a Long Extension Pole: If possible, use a long extension pole with a narrow roller to maintain control and reach.
For painting a 1.5-inch gap behind a fixed glass screen, you can use a mini foam roller with a small diameter, a small paintbrush, a roller with a removable pad, or an edger/mini-roller system, as standard paint rollers will likely be too large. You should also consider using painter's tape for protection and a tool to hold the roller or brush in place for better control.
Hi
you can either mask glass area, or trim the end of the roller so it fits.
Take a foam pipe insulation or cut-down a small foam roller.
• Mount it on a thin dowel or wire to create a custom mini-roller.
• This gives you a very narrow diameter and custom shape.
To paint a 1-inch space, use a small paint pad or a modified mini roller, or consider using a brush with an extended handle for better reach. For spaces narrower than 1 inch, a thin paint pad or sponge attached to a stick can be used, or a brush with a bent or angled handle
Use 1 inch paint brush
For a 1.5-inch gap behind glass, standard rollers are usually too thick. Look for micro foam rollers with diameters under 1.5 inches, or use small foam applicators or a narrow paintbrush instead. You can also make a custom small foam roller for tight spaces.
Okay, painting in a tight space like that is tricky Instead of a roller, consid using a small foam brush or an artist's brush They come in various sizes and can give you more control in narrow gaps. Also tape to protect the glass edges
Hi looking for mini foam rollers or craft rollers some of this have the diameter under 1inch. Alternatively, try sponge brushes or pad painters for tight spaces without touching the glass
You're right—most standard mini rollers are about 1.5 inches in diameter, which is too large for a tight 1.5-inch gap. Fortunately, there are a few alternative tools and workarounds you can consider:
1. Foam Brush or Sponge Brush
- These are flat, disposable, and very thin typically less than 0.5 inches thick.
- You can attach one to a stick or dowel to reach the area more easily.
- They apply paint smoothly and are ideal for tight spots.
2. Artist’s Paintbrush
- A wide but flat artist’s brush (e.g., 1 to 2 inches wide) can slide into narrow gaps.
- Slower than a roller, but offers good control and avoids mess.