Get Started →

When to Use What: Types of Paint Primer

by | Jun 14, 2018 | Home Improvement

Thinking about buying or selling a home?

Contact an expert agent for a free, no-obligation consultation today!

Okay, so you figured out that you need to prime before you paint. But how are you supposed to know what type of paint primer to use? There are three main types of paint primers: latex-based, oil-based, and all purpose. While they all do the same job, they all do it a little bit differently. It’s important to know what they are, so you can figure out what works best for you.

Latex-Based Primer

These work best when used on a stained wall or on surfaces which have been filled in with paste. These primers can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces and are usually the best option for woodwork, drywall, plaster, and pre-painted metal. Be sure to use a latex-based primer if you’re covering up drywall, because an oil-based primer could make the surface look uneven (which is the last thing you want!).

Oil-Based Primer

Oil-based primers do a great job at preparing weathered wood for paint. If you’re painting over a wall with some chipped paint, you can just an oil-paint primer to smooth out the surface. If it’s an exterior wall with wood that could possibly leak sap, then an oil-based primer could be helpful. The slow-drying primer successfully prevents tannins from leaking through.

All Purpose Primer

All purpose primers have become pretty popular, because on surface level they can work on everything. Why bother getting a specific primer when you can get a 2-for-1? While all purpose primers do make some things easier, it’s important to double check the label to see if it can be used for your intended purpose.

When you know what to look for, priming becomes a lot easier. If you ever have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask a for help.  While using paint primer might be a hassle, we know it’ll be worth the extra effort and make your home look amazing! This is especially important if you are considering selling your home.

Trelora real estate serves the Colorado Front Range and Seattle Metro Area and our mission is simple: full service real estate for a fraction of the cost. When you hire a traditional agent to help you buy or sell your home, you pay that agent 3-6% of the home’s value.

When you hire Trelora, you pay 1% rather than a variable commission on the price of your home. You’ll also get best-in-class customer service, a team of expert agents who close hundreds of deals per year, a proprietary technology platform that puts you in the driver’s seat and an average rebate of $13,500 in Colorado and $18,000 in Seattle.
How can we help you?

Stay up to date on the latest market conditions

Get the best real estate advice from local experts in your inbox. 

The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes only, and while believed to be accurate, Trelora assumes no legal responsibility for accuracy. Information provided within should not relied upon as legal advice. Please consult with your local advisors for independent information regarding availability and applicability in your market.