Home Finding a
Quality Paint
 4 Steps to Success Problem
Solver
Decorative
World
PQI Colour Designer Health, Safety & Environment Trends
 

>Quick Faq's
>Links
>Glossary
>Contact us
>About us
>Calculator
>Site Map


> Home > 4 Steps to Success > Exterior > Prepare the Surface > Select the Primer

The primer coat is critical to a quality paint job. A primer should be used if the surface is very porous or is at all uneven in porosity; or if all chalk cannot be removed from the surface. It is also very effective even when used over sound painted surfaces to maximise adhesion of new coats and ensure the uniformity of gloss or sheen of a finish coat. As a general rule any previously unpainted or unstained surfaces should be primed. And, depending on the surface, a special stain-blocking primer may be necessary. Although both water-based and solvent-based primers are available for most applications, solvent-based primers usually provide superior stain-blocking. Keep in mind that primers have been developed specifically for different surfaces and it is vital that the proper primer be used for wood, masonry, hardboard, or metal substrates and that the primer is formulated for exterior use. Be sure to read manufacturer recommendations about spread rates (how large an area can be covered per litre), drying time before a top coat can be applied, how long the primer can be left before it must be top coated, and how advisable it is to apply a second primer coat. These factors are important to ensure the best finish coat results.


 

 

< Back

PQI Brazil
Home | Legal Disclaimer | Privacy Statement | Photo Credits
© 2001-2008 Paint Quality Institute - All rights
PQI China PQI France PQI Germany PQI Russia PQI South Africa PQI Schweden PQI USA PQI Brazil PQI  Australia/New Zealand