Do You Have to Prime Walls Before Painting?

If you’re looking for amazing results, do you have to prime walls before painting? Many property owners are surprised to learn that you don’t always need a primer when starting a new painting project. But how do you know when a primer could be beneficial?

As leading Tucson painters, Nelson J. Greer Painting Contractors, Inc. provides commercial and residential painting services in the area. Below, the team shares more about paint primers and when to prime walls. If you’d like to know more, please give us a call at 520-325-5800 (Tucson) or 602-252-1345 (Phoenix).

If You Have Walls with Moisture, Oil, Odors, or Stains

Most imperfections on your walls will show through if you don’t prime them. Stains and oils require a strong primer to truly mask them and give you a fresh surface for painting. Foul odors, such as cigarette smoke, also need a heavy-duty primer to stop the stench from returning after painting.

Are there moisture problems? You’ll need to address these with professional assistance before trying to paint over them. You can’t just paint over issues like mold, mildew, and water damage—it will look bad, and the source of the problems will just transfer onto the new paintwork.

If You’re Transitioning from Dark to Light Paint Colors

Do you have to prime walls before painting them if the color is changing? You should always prime before painting if you’re trying to cover a darker color with a light one. It might also need several coats of paint.

If Your Walls Have Oily or Glossy Paint

Paints need an appropriate base to look their best. For example, new paint will have difficulty sticking to a glossy or oil paint beneath it. Light sanding or a bonding primer can help.

However, if you’re trying to repaint over lead paint, you’ll need to contact a trained professional for the safe removal of the old layer. Painting over these materials could create unsafe living or working conditions.

When You Don’t Need to Prime Your Walls

Some paints have primers in them, meaning you’re painting and priming your walls at the same time. You also don’t need a primer if the new and old paint colors are nearly identical or have very similar hues. 

Clean walls that are in optimal shape can do without primer too. However, if you are unsure, it’s best to use a primer to be safe. You’ll experience smoother results and a more attractive finish, so primer’s are always worth a little extra effort.

Schedule Professional Painting with Nelson J. Greer Painting Contractors, Inc. Today!

Do you have to prime walls before painting a home or business in Arizona? Why not take the stress out of your next painting project with the help of our expert painting team? We know how to avoid paint drips on walls and ensure a gorgeous finish for any commercial or residential space.

Call Nelson J. Greer Painting Contractors, Inc. today at 602-252-1345 (Phoenix) or 520-325-5800 (Tucson) for more about our painting services!