Do You Always Need A Primer?

Primer is essentially a sticky, flat paint that is designed to adhere well and to provide a consistent base for topcoats of paint.

Typically contractors use primer, then two coats of paint but primers are not always necessary in every painting project. You may not need a primer if you’re painting over similar types of existing finishes that are clean, dry, and in good shape - such as latex to latex or latex to oils. Primers are recommended when you need to promote adhesion, block stains, fill porous surfaces like concrete block, resist alkali and efflorescence, provide corrosion resistance, or paint white over dark colors, etc. The use of primers also depends on the existing coatings. For example, you might need a bonding primer if you’re trying to paint cabinets that have been factory-finished.

Here’s when a primer is needed:

• When you are going from dark wall color to a lighter one.

• When painting latex-based over oil-base.

• If the surface is stained or very porous.

• You are painting directly over drywall that is skim coated.

A relatively new product on the market today is Paint & Primer In One. While this concept is wonderful in theory, it has limited applications when it comes to actually holding up well to the test of time. A good rule of thumb is to stick to the highest-quality manufacturers if you decide to use one of these products, and make sure you check the label to ensure it can be used for your intended application. If there are any issues with the wall or it’s been more than eight years since you last painted, bite the bullet and go with a separate primer.

Good Luck! If you have any questions contact Cobb Brothers Company, 508-655-7910 we are always happy to help out.