Recommended Interior Primers

Applying specialized interior primers before the finish paint can produce a smoother, more pleasing, appearance. A paint primers main purpose is to seal the surface allowing the greatest adhesion of the finish paint. A good paint primer can do much more, affecting the final appearance of the paint.

Three Types of Interior Primers are on the Market

Alkyd, also known as oil base paint primer, is reduced with mineral spirits. Usually applied to wood trim, doors and windows. Plus, can be applied to many metal surfaces. These paint primers can have stain blocking capabilities, dry times ranging from 1 hour to overnight, and can be easily sanded producing a ultra smooth surface.

Alkyd paint primers can create a strong bond allowing any type of finish paint to be applied. Can be applied with a natural bristle brush, roller or airless sprayer and clean up with mineral spirits only. A major drawback is the smell that can linger for several hours.

Acrylic, also known as latex paint primer, is reduced with water. Can be applied to many surfaces including wood trim, doors and windows, MDF, paneling, plaster, masonry and many plastics. Modern acrylic primers have become the foundation of the painting industry and can be top coated with any type of paint.

Many have stain blocking capabilities and the added advantage of quick dry times, typically 1-4 hours. Apply with a synthetic bristle brush, roller or airless sprayer and clean up with mild soap and warm water. An additional advantage is the lack of a bad smell, as compared to the oil base primers.

Pigmented Shellac primer is your third choice. This type of interior paint primer is reduced with denatured alcohol and has incredible adhesion capabilities. Adheres well to wood, metal and most plastics, plus dries fast allowing sanding, or finishing, in less than an hour.

Has a strong odor that dissipates quickly and can be applied with natural white china bristle brush or roller. Clean up is with denatured alcohol.

Many Surfaces Can Benefit From the Use of Interior Primers

Below is a list of surfaces and recommended type(s) of interior paint primers. This is a general list of recommended interior primers only; before purchasing any primer, consult with your local paint store about possible alternatives that can be used.