Prime or not to Prime….that is the question? This reader is in a
quandary about primers and if she even needs to prime.
All of you that have signed up for the newsletter and received your seven problem solving faux painting lessons… know that I avoid flat paint like the plague.
But… you might have a situation where the surface needs to be primed? Or does it?
Hello, Debra,
A question regarding preparing the wall: my son is planning to prime the wall before I start. I think it's in good shape and is a light neutral color, but it has probably been several years since it was painted. Is this step necessary? Also, your newsletter said to avoid flat paint–does primer even come in eggshell? I haven't seen the wall yet so I don't know what type of finish the wall currently has. He's in a different city and hasn't closed yet on the condo–I'm not sure I can even help him to recognize what type it is by phone. It would just save us some time if he could have the prep work (if needed) done before I get there.
Thanks,Becky
True confession time – I never primed a painted wall surface before I did any faux painting technique. Primer is what is painted on the walls before the base coat paint color is applied. This was already in place before I ever showed up to create the decorative finish techniques.
If a home had paint that was very old… the home owner was required to have a commercial painter apply a fresh top coat in a satin or eggshell finish. This was part of the contract, which means I just had to do my magic as the final step.
Did this require a primer base coat. No. Painters often do use primers as the first coat of a paint job, as it helps the top layer adhere better. Also, if the original color of paint is colorful, then a primer helps to block that color from bleeding through.
So to answer the questions from Becky:
- Primer does come in a satin finish and can be tinted to almost any color. Lowe's carries the Zinsser brand that is very good and comes in satin.
- If the walls are in good shape and a neutral color, then painting and priming is not necessary. If the wall is painted with flat paint, which most builders use because it hides flaws better than any other sheen, then the walls will need to be painted with a fresh coat of satin or eggshell paint.
- An easy way to recognize if the wall finish is flat paint – Rub your finger over a newspaper until it has some black residue on it, and then rub that finger on the wall. Then take a paper towel or rag (clean) and rub on that smudge. If it wipes of with relative ease, you don't have flat paint. Easy.
I hope I have answered this call for help with clarity and alleviated some of your anxiety. Have fun with your new condo and remember… It is only paint, anything can be fixed.
