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When it comes to wall painting in Sydney, one question that often comes up is whether or not you really need to apply primer beforehand.
It might seem like an extra step, but using primer can make a big difference in how your paint looks and lasts.
Let’s take a closer look at why primer is important, when you should use it, and when you can skip it.
Think of primer as the foundation of your painting job. Here’s what primer does:
Simply put, primer makes the whole painting process easier and your results better.
Do you really need to apply primer before painting? The answer is, it depends on a few factors. There are situations where using primer is essential, and others where you are able to skip it. Let’s break it down:
If you're painting over surfaces that haven't been painted before, like raw timber, drywall, or concrete, then primer is a must.
These surfaces are porous, meaning they soak up paint unevenly, which can lead to blotchy, patchy results. Applying primer helps seal the surface so the paint goes on smoothly and evenly.
If you're making a big colour change, especially if you're going from a dark colour to a much lighter one, applying a primer is a good idea. It helps block out the old colour, so you don’t end up with a dark shade peeking through the new, lighter paint.
Primer also helps you get full coverage with fewer coats of the new paint.
If your walls have stains, like water marks or grease, primer can stop these from seeping through the new paint. It's also helpful for fixing damaged areas.
If your walls are cracked, peeling, or damaged in any way, a primer will create a smooth base, so your topcoat looks better and sticks well.
If you’re painting over a glossy surface, primer is necessary. Glossy surfaces are too smooth for paint to stick to properly, so applying primer first ensures your new coat of paint will stay put.
New drywall or plaster walls are highly absorbent. They can soak up paint unevenly, making it hard to get an even, smooth finish. Using primer seals these surfaces and ensures that your paint goes on evenly. It also helps the paint last longer.
If your walls are in good shape and you’re painting with a similar colour, you do not need primer. Simply clean the walls and apply the new paint directly over the old layer. Just make sure the existing paint is in good condition.
Oil-based primers are great for tough surfaces like wood, metal, and masonry. They have strong adhesion and work well at blocking stains.
These primers are also ideal for areas with high moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms. Oil-based primers take around 12 to 24 hours to dry completely.
Water-based primers are ideal for drywall, plaster, and already painted surfaces. These are the most commonly used primers for interior walls, as they’re quick to work with and effective for general use.
Water-based primers dry much faster compared to oil-based ones, often in just 2 to 4 hours.
If you're painting over glossy or hard-to-paint surfaces like tiles or laminate, a bonding primer is a must. It helps paint stick to surfaces that other primers might struggle with.
Bonding primers typically take about 1 to 2 hours to dry, but for the best results, wait at least 4 hours before applying your topcoat
If your walls have stains that need to be covered up, a stain-blocking primer is the solution. It prevents stains from showing through the new paint and ruining the finish. Stain-blocking primers can take up to 24 hours to dry.
Make sure to allow the primer to fully dry before applying your topcoat of paint. This ensures better adhesion and a more even finish.
So, do you need to prime your walls before painting? In most cases, yes, because primer plays an important role in helping your paint stick, last longer, and look great.
Applying a primer is a step that can make a big difference in the final result. If you're unsure which type of primer to use or how to apply it, our team at Sydney Wide Plastering is available to help. Call us at 0405 847 224 or submit our online form. We offer expert advice and quality painting services to ensure your walls look their best.
