Although primer is typically used in residential painting to improve coverage and enhance the final finish, there are actually several reasons why you should always use a primer before painting that you may not be aware of. Keep reading to find out!
Primer Makes Paint Adhere Better
I always recommend using a good-quality bonding primer under any exterior paint, whether it’s an oil or water-based product. The priming process ensures that the surface is properly prepared to ensure years of trouble-free performance once painted with an exterior latex semi-gloss or gloss paint (latex is the most common type of paint used on exteriors).
Primer Conceals Flaws
Primers provide a good foundation for any topcoats of paint, as they cover and conceal surface imperfections such as mold, mildew, cracks and peeling; ensuring your new paint job will look its best for years to come.
Primer Increase Paint Durability
Using an alkyd bonding primer under oil-based exterior paint will greatly increase the durability, especially when painting surfaces like masonry, concrete or stucco. Alkyd primers are formulated to be used with oil-based paints and can dramatically improve adhesion on concrete, brick or other porous surfaces that would otherwise soak up large amounts of paint over time.
Primer Can Help Cover Up Old Colors
Primer can be a great tool for covering up old paint that you plan on painting over, such as an exterior house color. While most primers won’t totally cover the old paint color, they do provide a good solid foundation to allow the new coat of latex topcoat to adhere better and last longer.
Primer Increases Sheen Level
Using a primer with a higher sheen than the final finish you’re looking for (such as semi-gloss or gloss above flat or satin), creates more depth and richness in color. The use of oil-based primers under exterior latex paints can create an even more noticeable “pop” due to their ability to retain moisture while blocking ultraviolet (UV) light. These two characteristics can be truly beneficial when it comes to exterior finishes, especially in northern climates where sunlight fades paint color over time.
Primer Can Hide Mistakes
If you apply an extra coat or two of primer and accidentally spray too much paint on one section or miss a spot entirely, the primed surface will still look good because primer is there as a backup plan to make sure your work stays looking fresh and crisp for years! So if you’re going to prime your surface before painting, remember that using a high-quality bonding primer with excellent coverage provides peace of mind by giving you room for error!
Contact Rob Ross Painting
For more information about primers, call Rob Ross Painting Company in Gloucester, MA at 978-265-1567. We’re experts at helping our customers achieve the best exterior finish possible on every project!
