Primers
You may think using a primer before painting is just added work and not necessary. Let us assure you that the benefits of priming far outweigh the bit of additional labor. Primers seal the substrate, provide uniform coverage and improve adhesion between the wall and paint. Taking the time to add a coat of primer can give your professional-looking results regardless of your skill level.
What Does Primer Do?
Paint primers cover imperfections, such as areas of the wall that have been repaired.
Primers provide a uniform surface for improved adhesion and a base for smooth paint application, which results in needing few coats.
Any stains on your wall will be blocked by primer, and the surface wall color will be neutralized to allow the most accurate color of the paint to come through.
When to Use Primers
A coat or two of primer never hurts but if you’re looking for specific circumstances in which it’s a necessity, here are our suggestions:
If you’re changing from a high-sheen finish, like semi-gloss, to a lower sheen finish, like eggshell, you may want to use two coats of primer for the best results.
You always need to prime before painting if you are going from a dark color to a lighter color. Again, two coats is the suggested amount for this transition, as well.
Do you have walls that have patches or repairs? Primer to the rescue! A high-quality primer, such as Benjamin More Primers, will give you a smooth, even surface to apply paint.
You will need to prime untreated wood or other very porous surfaces before painting so the paint is not absorbed into the wall. This will cause swelling which will affect the appearance of your final paint job.
If you are painting an exterior, always use primer as the paint on an exterior is generally in rough shape after a few years of exposure to the elements.
Types of Paint Primers
Oil based primers and latex primers are the most used types of primers. Oil-based primers have been the industry standard for many years due to their versatility, and ability to be applied to various surfaces. This type of primer can be used with both oil and latex paint and is fantastic at blocking existing stains on the surface to be painted. Latex primer is water-based and ideal for prepping unfinished drywall. It is more flexible and faster drying than oil-based, and easy to clean. Latex primers can cover minor stains, such as crayon and ink, but are not as well equipped to block major staining as oil-based primers.
How to Use Primer
Be sure you have purchased enough primer before you begin. Primers are made to bind with paint and can lose effectiveness if you do not paint over the primer within 48 hours. Begin by preparing your wall using a lightweight spackling compound to repair any holes or imperfections. Remove all excess compound and allow it to dry thoroughly. Then use a piece of very fine grit sandpaper to smooth the repaired areas flush with the wall. Wipe off the spackling compound dust with a damp cloth or sponge and allow to dry.
Paint primers have difficulty adhering to a dry roller, so dampen yours with paint thinner or mineral spirits for oil-based, or water for latex primer, before beginning. After you’ve applied the primer, use sandpaper to smooth out the surface in preparation for paint. Remove any dust with a damp cloth, wait to dry, and you’re ready to paint! You may be wondering about self-priming paint, but a separate paint and primer are preferable. Use a brush to “cut in” around corners first, and then use a roller to fill in the rest of the room. You should work in sections to ensure an even coat of primer is applied. Self-priming paint is essentially a thicker paint that builds into a thicker coat on the wall.
Contact Potomac Paint & Design
Are you ready to jump into your priming and painting project? We are here to help! We carry top brands of paints and primers, including Benjamin Moore, C2 Paint, Farrow & Ball, and more. With our extensive selection, you’re sure to find just what you need to complete any painting project. We also offer a wide variety of window treatment products, design consultants, and color consultations. Come see us for perfect paint and wallpaper matching services.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our paint specialists. We have Arlington, Alexandria, and Falls Church, VA, and are pleased to serve the surrounding area, including Fairfax, VA.
