Priming Interiors

Interior

Exterior

How-To Videos

Prime Before Interior Painting

What you'll need:

Here's everything you'll need to get it right the first time.

Paint tray and liners
Paintbrushes and rollers
Painter's tape
Buckets
Cans and jars
Drop cloths
Painter's hat
Stirring sticks

Tip: If you are repainting walls or woodwork in excellent condition, and/or you are not making dramatic color changes, priming is usually not needed.

Seal the Surface

After you've cleaned, sanded and masked, don't forget the important step of priming interior surfaces. Bare wood needs a primer to seal the surface. You'll use less top coat and the color will lay rich on the top layer. If the surface is new construction or a recent repair, or if you have sanded down to bare surface, apply a high quality primer before painting.

Priming over Stained Surfaces

Stained walls and ceilings need primer to link the stain from migrating to the topcoat. Some woods naturally bleed tannins. These stains will come through the topcoat no matter how many coats you apply. Select a stain blocking primer best for the type of stain, either an oil-based or latex based product.

Spot Priming

Spot priming means you apply a primer only to those spots that need it. If you've sanded down to bare surface, you need to prime those spots. For some stains, spot priming is the best way to save time and lock in the stain from migrating to the top coat. Don't forget to feather sand so the topcoat applies evenly.

Prime Glossy Surfaces

Prime glossy surfaces to promote adhesion of the topcoat.
There are three ways to prime a glossy surface:

1. Use a latex or oil-based primer formulated for glossy surface adhesion.
2. Use a liquid deglosser such as Prepaint, following all label instructions.
3. Go over the surface with 200 grit sandpaper. The scuffing will help the new paint adhere. Then wash the surface with TSP or substitute, rinse with water, and let dry. More on MultiPurpose Primers. More on Exterior Primers If you aren't sure if you need a primer or which primer to use, contact Customer Service.

Dramatic Color Changes

Dramatic color changes look professional when you use the right primer. Use a high hiding primer if you paint a light color over a dark color. Use a tintable primer if painting a dark color over a light color. If you aren't sure if you need a primer or which primer to use, contact Customer Service.

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