Tips on Priming Walls Before Painting Them

Priming your interior walls before painting them may seem tedious and unnecessary, but it is essential. Primer is a sealant, which provides a preparatory coating for your paint. It promotes better adhesion of paint, increases paint durability and longevity, and protects the drywall.

While it is advised to hire professional interior painting contractors for the job, you can certainly prime your walls by yourself. Continue reading to learn some helpful tips that will make priming an easier job than you would expect.

What You Will Need?

To prepare your walls for painting, you need the right supplies. Visit your local home improvement store, and add these items to your shopping cart:

• Paint Brush
• Paint Pail
• Paint Pail Liner
• Roller Tray
• Roller Tray Liner
• Paint Roller
• Roller Cover
• Drop Cloth
• Primer
• Sanding Sponge
• Extension Pole

Don’t forget the actual paint for when you are done prepping!

Application Tips

Always be sure to prepare the surrounding area for a painting project by covering up carpet, floors, furniture, and appliances with tarps. This step also includes taping up baseboards, crown molding, wainscoting, and more. Once your surroundings are protected, you can get to work without concern for your personal possessions.

When dipping your paintbrush into the primer, try to wipe the excess product off on the sides of the pail. You do not want to apply a primer when your brush is dripping. When it is time to apply the product to the wall, start with edges first. Create a border around the edges and corners of the walls where the roller will not be able to reach.

For reliable results, always apply at least two coats of primer. For new construction drywall, one coat is acceptable, but two coats are the standard. For darker colored walls, you may need one or two extra coats if you are painting with a lighter color paint afterward.

Be sure to lightly sand your walls after the primer has finished drying completely. Then use a tack cloth to wipe off all the excess dust. Do this step before painting, and you will have a smooth, even finish when you are done.

There you have it! Your quick guide to priming your walls before beginning the paint job. If you think you don’t have the time or skills to do all of the above, why not hire a professional who provides specialty painting services? They can give you a professional-grade priming and painting service at an affordable price within a much shorter time.