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Spray can Primer

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Spray can Primer for Every Painting Job

Do You Need Spray can Primer to Paint?

Not every paint job requires Spray can primer, but in many cases, it’ll help you get better results. Spray can Primer covers the surface prior to painting in order to achieve a professional and smooth look. Spray can 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 Spray can primer at Lowe’s.


Benefits

  • Smooth Wall Surface
    The main reason to use Spray can primer is to ensure that the surface or wall is smooth for application. Depending on the material, walls can have varying porosities. Applying Spray can 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 Spray can primer. Spray can Primer also helps cover up odors, mold and imperfections in the wall beneath.


Types of Spray can Primer

  • Water-Based Spray can Primer
    Water-based Spray can primers serve as an alternative to solvent-based Spray can primers. If you’re looking for a quick-drying Spray can primer, this is a great option. Since it’s water based, this Spray can primer cleans easily from paint brushes.


  • Oil-Based Spray can Primer
    Oil-based Spray can primer is ideal for any unfinished or bare wood material. The Spray can 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 Spray can Primer
    If you have various stains, shellac Spray can primer is the ideal choice. You can use it 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 an even coat.


  • Tintable Spray can Primer
    Most Spray can 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 Spray can primer.


When to Use Spray can Primer for Walls

There are many factors to take into account when deciding whether or not to use Spray can 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 Spray can 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 Spray can 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 Spray can 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 Spray can primer and paint is generally recommended.


Shop our selection at Lowe’s for ProBlock Spray can primer, HGTV Home® by Sherwin-Williams Spray can primer, Zinsser Spray can primer and Valspar® primer to get the painting results you want.