Do I Need to Use Primer Before Painting?
The aim of repainting a house is to make the walls look attractive and protect its structure. Generally, painters recommend using a primer before applying the paint coat for all surfaces, including drywall and wood. Primer helps provide a base to ensure that the paint remains durable and lasts longer, has a smooth and uniform texture, and the wall requires fewer paint coats. Many people, especially DIYers, feel primer to be a waste of time and money, especially with the availability of paint and primer in one product. However, the decision to use a primer before painting or skip it depends on several factors. Here is a small guide to help make the decision
When to apply primer before painting
Here are some situations where the use of primer is a necessity:
When painting a previously unpainted surface
Surfaces like new drywall, bare wood, bricks, and wall paneling are porous and can absorb water, oil, and moisture. They will need to be primed, or they will absorb all the paint as you apply it to offer an uneven coverage. The walls will require more paint coats than necessary to achieve uniformity. The primer will seal the pores for a seamless finish by allowing the paint to stick nicely to the surface.
When the walls are stained
A surface with spots, patches, stains, water damage, and signs of repair will benefit from primer application before painting. Primers specifically made to seal stains and odor will keep them from leaking through the fresh coat of paint.
A significant change in wall color
Applying a coat or two of primer before painting a dark-colored wall with light color or vice versa will save the hassle of applying multiple paint coats before getting the desired result.
When the previous paint is glossy
Repainting on a glossy surface with paint with a lower sheen has some challenges. They make it difficult for the paint to stick to the surface. Sanding the wall and applying primer before painting will help it to stick and offer an excellent finish.
When painting over a wallpaper
Priming is essential to hide flaws and to get a smooth finish when painting a wall with wallpaper or after removing it.
Also, consider priming when switching between two saturated colors or painting over a metal or plastic surface.
Primer can be skipped before painting a wall if:
There is no significant visible damage or stains on the walls, and they look clean, well-maintained, and in good shape.
There is not much difference between the previous and the new color.
When using paint with a primer.
There are several advantages and no downside of applying primer to the walls before a paint job. It will protect the new paint from general wear and tear and keep the walls looking beautiful for a long time. Those who question whether a primer is needed can consult with a residential painting company. They can recommend if the exterior and interior walls of the home need a primer before painting.
M & B Painting, a Father-Son family-run business, has a proven record of Service Excellence in residential and commercial interior and exterior paint projects. Call us at 623-289-3366 for all of your painting needs!