Primer is an essential foundation for any painting project, yet it is often overlooked or dismissed as unnecessary. However, using a quality base coat before applying paint can have a significant impact on the overall quality and longevity of your paint job. Let us explore the importance of using a primer and how it can benefit your painting project. The right primer for every paint job

Primer Prepares the Surface:

Primer is designed to prepare the surface for paint, ensuring that the paint adheres properly and evenly. Priming will help to seal any porous surfaces, such as drywall or wood, which can absorb paint and cause it to look patchy and uneven. By priming, you are creating a smooth and even surface for your paint to adhere to, resulting in a professional and polished look.

Zinsser B-I-N Shellac-Base Primer is still considered to be the mother of all primers!

Improves Durability:

Using a primer can also improve the durability of your paint job. A good foundation layer will provide a strong bond between the surface and the paint, helping to prevent chipping, peeling, and fading. This means that your paint job will last longer, providing you with a longer-lasting and more attractive finish.

The most adhesive primer on earth!

BIN shellac sticks to all surfaces!  Widely used by contractors on cabinets and old wood millwork.  Roll it on and sand it smooth. also great at sealing water stains, smoke stains, soot, etc.  We have yet to come across a stain this primer could not block in one coat!

Pros:  Adhesion 10/10.  Blocks all stains guaranteed. Sands easy to a smooth finish. Dries super fast and can be coated by any other paint/primer

Cons: Highly flammable.  Foul smell.  Like all other fast-drying paints/primers, it does not do well outside – does not like extreme cold/heat.

Buy a gallon here

Hides Imperfections:

A primer can also help to hide any imperfections on the surface, such as cracks, dents, or holes. A good primer will fill in these imperfections, making them less noticeable and providing a smoother surface for the paint to adhere to. This can help to create a more polished and professional-looking finish, without the need for extensive preparation work.

Saves Time and Money:

Priming can save you time and money in the long run. By preparing the surface and improving the bond between the surface and paint, a base coat can reduce the need for touch-ups or re-painting. This means that you can complete your painting project in fewer coats, without sacrificing quality or longevity.

Maximize Your Painting Efforts with These Expert Tips

1. When it comes to painting walls and ceilings, always apply two coats for maximum coverage and longevity. To save time and money, tint your first coat with primer to match the final color. This will ensure better adhesion and color uniformity.
2. If you’re painting older wood millwork, start with a coat of BIN primer, followed by a water-based primer. This combination will help to seal the surface and improve the overall durability of the paint job.
3. do not use quick-dry oil primers outside.  Quick-dry primers have a limited life span due to high or low-temperature exposure.