Would you like us to replace your spark plugs while we change the oil? Do you need a tie to go with this shirt? Would you like fries with that? We are all familiar with the “upsell,” the attempt to get you to spend more than you intended by offering optional additions. Is that how it works with primer? Is primer really a necessary part of exterior painting?
There are certain situations that require primer, and other times where it is an optional part of exterior painting. Below, we will examine the ways that primer can be necessary or helpful, so you know when you really need to get it.
Always Prime Bare Surfaces
One of the main situations when primer is essential is when you are painting bare wood, metal, brick, and some types of vinyl or plastic. Normal exterior house paints do not have the binding power to adhere to these substrates over the long term. Exterior primer, then, serves as a bridge between the two, sticking firmly to the surface and providing a solid layer that the top coat can cling to.
There are different kinds of primers for different surfaces and applications, so make sure you get the right one. For example, brick and cinderblock require a completely different exterior primer from wood. Your exterior painting company can help you make sure you have exactly the product you need for your house painting project.
Drastic Color Changes Need Exterior Primer
If you are making a significant color change with your exterior paint, it can be helpful (or even necessary) to use primer. For example, if you want to paint a light color over a dark one, or a mild color over a bold one, primer will be essential to block out the previous color to prevent it from bleeding through. Even if it takes a few coats of primer, this is cheaper and easier than applying the many coats of exterior paint that would be required otherwise.
Even if you are going from light to dark, or mild to bold, a primer coat can be helpful. The paint store employees should be able to put some colorant into the primer so that it is a partial shade of the final color you desire. That way, the primer coat lays a good foundation so that your final color can be achieved with fewer top coats.
Painting over Stains Requires Exterior Primer
There are some kinds of stains so tough, you can’t wash them off. In fact, some are so tough, you can’t even paint over them! That is when you need a stain blocking primer. These primers are formulated to provide lasting coverage over graffiti, oil stains, and other tough-to-cover substances.
Some types of wood also require stronger primers to cover knots and tannins that occur naturally in many kinds of trees. While these might bleed through a typical primer, a stain blocking primer can seal them in, so your final coats of paint will be smooth and uniform.
Cherry Hill Painting
If you are preparing for an exterior painting project on your New Jersey home, consider getting an estimate from a reputable painting contractor. Cherry Hill Painting offers free estimates with no commitment, so you have nothing to lose by giving us a call. We would be happy to discuss any questions you have about primer, or any other exterior house painting question.
Cherry Hill Painting has been serving New Jersey and the Philadelphia region for more than 50 years, offering unbeatable service and quality for a fair price. In addition to exterior painting, we also offer interior painting, cabinet refinishing, wallpaper removal, and more. We look forward to serving you!