With the proliferation of “paint and primer in one,” it can seem that paints today are engineered to do it all, making primer irrelevant. However, primer is often an important part of customer satisfaction with the job.
Paint and Primer In One Explained…
Here are the facts
- There are times when you do not need to prime.
- There are times when you do need a primer.
When to use a primer
So, when is a primer not needed? When painting over similar type (latex to latex) of existing finishes that are clean, dry, dull and in sound shape, you may not need a primer.
Examples of when you need a primer include: To promote adhesion, or block stains, or fill porous surfaces like concrete block, or resist alkali and efflorescence…and on and on.
Most importantly, many of these “paint and primer in one” products recommend a second coat (and maybe more) to achieve complete coverage, performance and satisfactory results.
Try applying a satin or semi-gloss “primer and paint in one” over a porous surface like unprimed spackling, joint compound, or wood. Even after three coats, you can’t achieve the quality finish of a premium primer and topcoat.
Paint and Primer In One Bottom line
You can sometimes “get by” with satisfactory results when using these products as a primer and finish paint.
However, use a premium primer to achieve the best quality finish. Talk with your supplier about the best primer for your project.
Do it right the first time and get the finest quality finish your customers demand. The right primer for the job should always be your first recommendation.
So Amigos, what are your experiences with these products? Share below…
Also, check out Paint Amigo’s applicator recommendations below (Amazon affiliate links)…
No products found.
P.S. Download my free eBook The Profitable Painter. Click here.
