Primer

Primer for Every Painting Job

Do You Need Primer to Paint?

Not every paint job requires primer, but in many cases, it will help you get better results. Primer is used to cover the surface prior to painting in order to achieve a professional and smooth look. Primer offers multiple benefits and comes in various types. If you have a large painting job coming up, purchase a 5-gallon bucket of your favorite primer at Lowe's.

Benefits

Smooth Wall Surface 

The main reason to use primer is to ensure that the surface, or wall, is smooth for application. Depending on the material, walls can have varying porosities. Applying primer helps to create a smooth painting surface instead of one with small holes or inconsistencies due to the paint penetrating the material unevenly.

Coverage

A worn wall or surface can have a bit of wear and tear, including stains. If you have a dark stain on your surface and plan to paint it white, that stain may be visible without the use of primer. Primer also helps cover up odors, mold and imperfections in the wall beneath.

Types of Primer

Water-Based Primer

Water-based primers serve as an alternative to solvent-based primers. If you're looking for a quick-drying primer, this is a great option. Since it's water-based, this primer can be easily removed from paint brushes.

Oil-Based Primer

Oil-based primer is ideal for any unfinished or bare wood material. The primer seals the pores in the wood, creating a smooth and even surface for painting. This is ideal for both interior and exterior spaces.

Shellac Primer

If you have various stains, shellac primer is the ideal choice. It can be used to cover rough surfaces and old varnish as well as metal and ceramic.

Aerosol Spray Primer

Aerosol spray primer works well for metal or plastic surfaces. It's pressurized and provides for an even coat.

Tintable Primer

Most primers are tintable, which is optimal for achieving the fullest coverage. This primer is a shade or two lighter than your finishing coat and helps you see where you've previously applied the primer.

When to Use Primer for Walls

There are many factors to take into account when deciding whether or not to use primer. Consider the following if you are unsure if it's the right decision for your surfaces:

Contrasting Colors

Covering up dark walls with a light color can be tricky without primer. A high-hiding primer ensures that the true color of the paint comes through on the walls. Without it, the color can appear a bit murky.

Stained Surfaces

As mentioned previously, when the walls are stained it's vital to use a primer to get full coverage of the new color without any spotty inconsistencies.

Wood or Porous Surfaces

The type of material you're dealing with is very important. Wood is quite porous and in need of priming before painting. With drywall, the level of porosity varies. 

Contrasting Luster

Some paints come in a glossy base, while others are matte. Glossy bases don't hold paint well without a bit of light sanding and primer. This helps the new paint in sticking rather than just sitting on top of the previous color.

Self-Priming Paints

Self-priming paint is thicker in consistency and can take longer to dry. However, many do-it-yourself enthusiasts prefer this method and see it as a one-stop solution.

While self-priming paint is a good option, using a separate primer and paint is generally recommended. This is because self-priming paint costs a bit more and therefore you'll need more coats than advertised, based on the thickness of the combination primer-paint base.