Primer Paints
A primer paint is used as a preparatory coat to smoothen the surface before the first coat of paint is applied. Other than that, it also enhances the adhesion of paint and helps it to last longer.
Types of primer paint
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
| Oil-based |
✓ Can be applied on wood and metal ✓ Allows oil and latex paints to adhere ✓ Reduces visibility of stains ✓ Prevents cracking and peeling of paint |
☓ Dries slower ☓ Contains VOCs; toxic in the long run |
| Latex-based |
✓ Great for wood, galvanised metal, brick and concrete surfaces ✓ Dries quickly ✓ Easy to clean ✓ Low- or no-VOC formulas are available |
☓ Only able to conceal minor stains |
| Shellac |
✓ Best stain-blocking primer ✓ Allows oil and latex paints to adhere ✓ Dries quickly ✓ Adheres well |
☓ Not as versatile as oil- and latex-based primers: needs to be thinned with denatured alcohol before application |
Primer paints are great when the surface is porous, or when you are changing from dark to light colours. Browse our products to learn about the importance of primers today!