PDB Debrief: Commercial Primers

January 2023

Why primer?

• Ensures adhesion of paint to surface

• Prep & seal unpainted surfaces

• Increased paint durability

• Block stains & smells

• Additional protection for material being painted

• Better aesthetic result

Match primer type with paint type (i.e. oil primer for oil based paint), as well as make sure the primer type is appropriate for the surface its being applied to. Often, you cannot paint over an oil based paint with latex without prepping the surface to remove it or prime it properly.

As always— REVIEW SUBMITTALS AND REVIEW THE SPEC FOR EACH PRODUCT.

Oil Based

• "High-touch” surfaces

• Porous surfaces

• Areas with visible staining

• Outdoor spaces

• Heavy duty

• Higher VOC

Water Based

• Often referred to as “latex”

• Water cleanable

• Lower VOC *Faster drying

• Indoor

Paint & Primer “All in One”

• Fewer overall coats

• Good for new drywall or clean surfaces

Further Reading:

https://www.ppdpainting.com/blog/role-of-prime-coat-in-painting/

https://www.performance-painting.com/blog/why-your-commercial-building-needs-primer