A good paint tray is crucial for a great-looking finish. It helps you get smooth, even coverage without the mess, whether you’re a weekend DIYer or a seasoned pro. At Ace Hardware, we offer a wide selection of paint trays designed to meet your painting needs, from small touch-up jobs to large-scale renovations.
What Are the Different Paint Tray Types?
Choosing the right tray can make your project go much smoother. At Ace, we have the right supplies no matter what you're painting.
- Plastic trays:These are a great, lightweight choice for most home projects. They resist rust and clean up in a snap, making them ideal for anyone who paints occasionally.
- Metal trays:For a tray that’ll last through countless projects, you can’t beat metal. They’re tough, reliable and won’t buckle under the weight of the paint.
- Deep-well trays:If you’re tackling a big job, look for a deep-well tray. It holds more paint, which means fewer refills and more time painting.
Choosing the Right Paint Tray Size
Small trays are perfect for detail work and quick touch-ups where you need more control. For most rooms, a standard 7-inch or 9-inch tray is the perfect partner for your roller cover. If you’re painting a large area like a long hallway or a big exterior wall, an 18-inch tray delivers big savings in time and effort, letting you cover more space with every single pass.
Paint Tray Liners for Quick Cleanup
To save time and money on cleanup, grab a few paint tray liners. These disposable inserts fit neatly inside your reusable tray, keeping it clean and ready for your next coat. When it’s time to switch from a primer to your main color, simply toss the used liner and drop in a fresh one, no scrubbing, no mess. Tray liners also help extend the life of your trays by preventing paint buildup, making them a smart, low‑effort upgrade for any project.
Tray Features That Make Painting Easier
Modern painting tools and supplies are full of clever features that help you get the job done right.
- Reinforced edges:Quality trays have sturdy edges that resist bending and cracking.
- Textured roller ramps:Built-in ramps evenly distribute paint on your roller, helping prevent drips and deliver a smoother, more consistent coat.
- Pour spouts: Integrated spouts make it easier to pour leftover paint back into the can with less mess and waste.
You can also find paint bucket grids, that snap onto a standard 5-gallon bucket of interior paint or exterior paint, turning it into a mobile paint station. They give you the same even roller loading as a tray but with much more paint capacity.
Grab a Paint Tray Set to Get Started Faster
If you want to take the guesswork out of gathering your supplies, a paint tray set is a smart choice. These convenient kits bundle the essentials you need for your project, usually including a durable tray, a roller frame and one or two roller covers. It's an easy way to save time and money and ensures you have all the right, compatible tools ready to go so you can get straight to painting.
Shop Paint Trays Near You at Ace Hardware
Getting your paint and supplies project started is easy at your neighborhood Ace. Stop by to find the perfect paint tray and get some helpful tips from our staff. While you’re there, don’t forget to explore our full selection of quality roller covers, painter’s tape and drop cloths to get your job done right the first time.
