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| How to Use Primer |
| This DIY kit will show you how to select and use the correct primer. |
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A fresh coat of paint does wonders to brighten a room, but to ensure long-lasting results it's important to pick the right primer. The type of primer you select depends upon the surface you're going to paint and its condition. There's a primer designed for virtually every need: - When it comes to new construction, select a primer made specifically to seal unpainted drywall (figure A). This type of water-based primer is fast drying and promotes a uniform finish and offers great coverage.
- For difficult surfaces, such as wrought iron, bleeding wood and aluminum, use an interior-exterior oil-based primer that locks in rust and wood stains.
- For walls, wood and other surfaces that have been painted before, first determine if the existing paint is oil-based or water-based.
To do this, simply apply rubbing alcohol to clean white cloth and rub. If the alcohol cleans the surface but doesn't remove the paint, it's oil-based. If the paint transfers to the cloth, the existing paint is water-based. In this case, we're using a latex enamel undercoated primer and sealer that locks in stains and resists mildew. When applying use a high-quality 3/8" to 1/2" nap roller (figure B) or nylon brushes. If using dark or bright paint colors (figure C), be sure your primer is tinted appropriately to work with your paint color. First, cover any spots or stains with primer and allow drying. Then apply a complete coat of primer over the entire surface. So before you start your next painting project, don't forget to prime for the very best results!
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