When it comes to painting home surfaces, primer is one of the most essential items in your toolkit. Without the proper priming and preparation, your interior or exterior painting project could end up looking amateur at best, or in a worst case scenario, having to be ripped out and done all over again.
The knowledge and understanding of what primer is, why it’s important, and the various types available to you with today’s market can be as bewildering as it is useful. This article provide an informative breakdown of primers, from types and applications, to cost and more.
Primer is a vital additive to any painting project, especially if you’re working on outdoor surfaces. It helps to fill minor surface imperfections, increases paint adhesion, creates uniform sheen, and can even block out stains.
Primer is a thick paste-like paint made of different materials such as acrylic, latex, metal or oil-based. It also contains additional compounds specifically designed to enhance the primer’s performance and create an effective seal when applied to the surface.
There are a few different types of primer you might need depending on your specific needs. Here is a brief overview of the different kinds.
The application of primer is relatively simple, but requires certain techniques to ensure that the primer adheres to the surface effectively. Before starting, make sure you are wearing protective clothing, goggles, and a respirator mask, as some primers may contain harmful fumes.
First, using a putty knife, apply the primer to the surface. Use smooth strokes and start from one end and work your way to the other. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Once you’ve finished applying the primer, let it dry for the recommended amount of time.
After the primer has dried, you can begin to paint. It’s important to avoid over-brushing, as this can cause the paint to become uneven or bubble. To ensure even coatings, always start at one end of the surface and work back and forth in small sections.
Primers come in a variety of forms and price ranges, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons when selecting the right kind of primer for your project.
One of the benefits of using primer is that it can act as a sealant. This can help protect the surface from moisture and dirt, which can in turn extend the life of your paint job. Additionally, primers are also great for filling in minor imperfections and creating a more uniform and consistent finish.
On the flip side, primer can be much more expensive than paint, and can take longer to dry. It’s also important to note that not all primers are the same, so it’s important to select the right one for your particular project.
The cost of primers can vary greatly depending on the type and brand,