The primer is a preparatory coating before painting the walls. After priming, the paint lays on the surface better, resulting in a perfectly even coating. However, some do not use primer, but immediately proceed to painting. Let's find out how much the primer of the walls is really necessary before painting, whether it can be abandoned and how to prime the surface according to all the rules.
Advantages of priming walls before painting
Do I need to prime the walls before painting and can I do without it? The thing is that it is possible, in general, to get by, but it is highly undesirable. Getting to know the properties of a primer and the effect it can achieve will help you understand why prime your walls before applying paint.
- The primer strengthens the surface, penetrating deep into its structure.
- Levels the base, fills in small cracks and pores that exist on the surface, thereby reducing paint consumption during the painting process.
- By priming the wall, you seem to cover it with a thin film, on which the paint fits well, leaving no stains or streaks. If the primer lay down in a thin, even layer, then the paint will also lie well.
- Primers come in a variety of colors, you can choose a primer to match the color of the paint to make it brighter.
- For a damp room, such as a bathroom, you can purchase an antiseptic primer. She protects the walls from mold and mildew growth. After priming, the painted surface will be reliably protected from these troubles.
- Without pre-coating, the paint can crack, and if you want to repaint it, then in the process it will lag behind the putty.
Primer types
There are several primer varieties, which are designed for different types of surfaces:
- Alkyd - for wood and metal. First of all, it is used for metal structures, as it has anti-corrosion properties. On wood and chipboard, this primer creates a protective layer that prevents the destruction of the material.
- Acrylic - universal, suitable for all surfaces. It penetrates into the pores of any material: wood, plaster, putty, concrete, metal. Strengthens the base and protects it from moisture.
- Epoxy - for concrete walls. Its base is epoxy resin, which increases the strength of the coating. It is used as a base for painting, linoleum coating, gluing ceramic tiles. Durable, it will not crack over time.
- Aluminum - for wood and metal surfaces. Contains aluminum powder, which ensures reliable adhesion of the paintwork material to the base.
- Silicate - for brick or decorative plaster. Most often it is used for processing facades. Resistant to temperature extremes, durable, moisture resistant. The places of its possible use in the apartment are the bathroom and the balcony or loggia.
- Polyvinyl acetate - used for special types of paint. It is applied to the surface, which is then painted with polyvinyl acetate paint. It has good adhesion to different surfaces, dries very quickly.
The primer must be selected based on the type of surface, area and manufacturer. If you need to cover a small area, then you can buy an aerosol can, it is more convenient to use.
It is worth buying funds for repairs in a hardware store, after consulting with a qualified seller. A well-known manufacturer is an additional plus, it can guarantee a good result. Before buying, check the expiration date and the appearance of the packaging.
Primer base
Most often, the walls are leveled with putty.Some believe that it can not be primed, because the putty surface is already a good preparatory layer for paint. But he has drawbacks: he can crumble, besides, he absorbs too much coloring composition. The primer will strengthen the base and save paint.
Wallpapers for painting do not require priming, as they are designed to apply a coloring agent.
Walls must be primed before wallpapering. The soil will provide a reliable connection of this layer with the walls.
Drywall should be primed in two stages. First, you need to cover the sheets immediately after installation. Secondly, the final finish with putty is also covered with primer.
Many people wonder if each coat of paint needs to be primed. If you are painting a wall over an old layer, then the primer must be used with different paint colors. It creates a barrier between two layers of paint so that the top layer does not show through.
How to prime a wall?
Priming technology is different for different types of soil. If you decide to apply it to the walls or ceiling, read the coating instructions for the type of primer you have chosen.
Remember that before applying water-based paint, it is necessary to prime the walls.
Tools:
- Protective mask and gloves.
- Roller or brush.
- Pallet.
- Degreaser.
Preparatory work:
- Put on safety goggles and gloves.
- Provide fresh air to the room. In this case, the temperature should be within 5-25 degrees above zero.
- Sand the putty with sandpaper.
- Remove dust with a brush or cloth. Fungus and mold must be removed with a metal brush.
- Degrease the surface with white spirit or acetone.
Main works:
- Pour a small amount of primer into the tray.
- Apply one coat to the wall with a roller or brush.
- Roll out the primer coat well on the wall so that there are no puddles and smudges.
- Wait until it dries completely, it can take from 4 hours to 1 day.
- Apply water emulsion in two layers.
A primer is a necessary step before painting any thing or walls in an apartment. It strengthens the surface, protects it from destruction, rust, cracks. After this procedure, the paint lays down better, and less is required.
