Latex Primer
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Latex Primer for Every Painting Job
Do You Need Latex Primer to Paint?
Not every paint job requires Latex primer, but in many cases, it’ll help you get better results. Latex Primer covers the surface prior to painting in order to achieve a professional and smooth look. Latex Primer offers multiple benefits and comes in several types. If you have a large painting job coming up, purchase a 5-gallon bucket of your favorite Latex primer at Lowe’s.
Benefits
- Smooth Wall Surface
The main reason to use Latex primer is to ensure that the surface or wall is smooth for application. Depending on the material, walls can have varying porosities. Applying Latex primer helps 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 if you don’t use Latex primer. Latex Primer also helps cover up odors, mold and imperfections in the wall beneath.
Types of Latex 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 cleans easily 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. You can use it to cover rough surfaces and old varnish as well as metal and ceramic.
- Aerosol Spray Latex Primer
Aerosol spray Latex primer works well for metal or plastic surfaces. It’s pressurized and provides an even coat.
- Tintable Latex Primer
Most Latex 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 Latex primer.
When to Use Latex Primer for Walls
There are many factors to take into account when deciding whether or not to use Latex primer. Consider the following if you’re unsure if it’s the right decision for your surfaces:
- Contrasting Colors
Covering up dark walls with a light color can be tricky without Latex 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
When the walls are stained, it’s vital to use a Latex 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 especially important. Wood is quite porous and requires 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 Latex primer. This helps the new paint to stick rather than just sit 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 Latex primer and paint is generally recommended.
Shop our selection at Lowe’s for ProBlock Latex primer, HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams Latex primer, Zinsser Latex primer and Valspar® primer to get the painting results you want.