For the perfect finish to your paint job, the key is to start with the right primer. Primer is a particular paint that goes on first to prepare your surface for optimal adhesion, durability, and coverage. But with so many options on the market to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one is the right fit for your project. Paint contractors in Alpharetta can help you understand the different types of primers.
Oil-Based Primer
Whether you’re using oil or latex paint for your job, an oil-based primer is an appropriate choice. That’s because it can be used on a wide variety of surfaces, including wood, metal, and walls with existing paint (as long as they’re not masonry). Oil-based primers offer good coverage and are effective at preventing stains from seeping through your newly coated surfaces. But while oil-based primers boast many advantages, they also have some downsides: They dry more slowly, release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and require careful attention during cleanup and disposal.
Bonding Primer
If your surface is difficult, meaning the paint comes off easily, a bonding primer can be an effective solution. When applied, the bonding primer tightly grips the surface while also promoting adhesion to the new top coat of paint. Since bonding primers stick to slick surfaces, they can save users time and money by eliminating the sanding step in the preparation phase. However, they can also be more expensive than other primers, so it’s important to balance what’s most important for your job.
Latex Primer
Water-based latex primers are good options for preparing unfinished drywall before painting because they can effectively even out the surface. They dry more quickly and are more flexible than their oil-based counterparts, making them a better choice for protection against peeling and cracking. They also come in low VOCs to meet homeowners’ needs for environmentally-friendly options. The primary limitation with latex primers is that they’re not as effective at covering stains.
Shellac Primer
Trusted and time-tested shellac primers offer great stain protection and work well to seal surfaces. Like oil-based primers, shellac can be used on many materials, including plaster, metal, and plastic, and with both oil and latex paint. The biggest drawbacks of shellac primer are that it can emit more fumes than other options and requires denatured alcohol as a thinner and to clean brushes and applicators.
If you’re ready to undertake a paint job, don’t forget the importance of using the right primer first. To learn more about the best selection for your project, call a painting company in Alpharetta.