Priming: An Essential Prep Step

Priming is always recommended to enhance coverage, adhesion and durability of the topcoat. Surfaces that should be primed include:

  • Any unpainted surface, such as bare wood, plaster or new drywall
  • Wallpaper
  • Patched or repaired areas
  • Paneling
  • Stained surfaces
  • Surfaces painted with oil-based paint
  • Surfaces that will have an extreme color change (light to dark or dark to light)
  • After priming, paint within twelve hours for best adhesion

Choosing Paint Primer

Use a latex (water-based) primer on these surfaces:

  • New drywall
  • Previously painted, patched and repaired or stained surfaces
  • Galvanized metal

Use an alkyd (oil-based) primer on these surfaces:

  • Paneling
  • Bare wood
  • Wrought iron and other metals that can rust
  • Wallpaper
  • Water stains or severe stains

Tips

Choosing the Right Paint
How to Clean
How to Get Organized