There’s nothing like a fresh coat of paint to give your home a new look. However, before slapping on your colour, the proper prep work must be done to ensure the best results. Does your project need primer? Sealer? Or undercoat? What’s the difference? Does it matter which one you use? Although these products might seem similar, they are different and perform different functions. Let’s go into more detail for each.

What is primer?

Primer is the first coat that is applied directly onto a bare substrate. The term “primer” actually comes from the Latin word “prim,” meaning “first.” This adhesive contains synthetic resin, solvent, and additive agent. Some primers include polyethylene (plastic) for added durability. A coat of primer will stick to your wall like glue, smoothing the surface and preparing your wall for your paint.  

What else does primer do?

Primer helps to:

– act as an anchor, helping your paint adhere to the surface

– protect the painted surface from moisture

– cover imperfections in the surface

– hide surface stains and block odours

Do you need to use a primer before painting?

You should finish your painting project as quickly as possible, but take advantage of this step. Primer’s main role is to help your paint adhere to the surface, and you may need more coats of paint without it. Since primer is usually less expensive than paint, its use will help you save time and money in the long run, with better, longer-lasting results.  

What is a sealer?

A sealer can be used as a substitute for primer or used before primer. One of the main uses for sealer is to recondition an old surface that’s currently unfit for painting, such as a porous substrate (like concrete) or a weathered and crumbling surface. Using a sealer before painting these surfaces will save you a lot of hassle and frustration.

What is an undercoat?

An undercoat is applied over the sealer or primer further to strengthen the function of the sealer or primer. An undercoat can help to fill any minor imperfections to create a smooth surface for painting. If you’re painting over an existing surface that’s already been painted, an undercoat is a good idea, especially when going from a darker colour to a lighter one.

Whether you’re painting an interior wall or your home’s exterior, choosing the correct preparatory coat for your project is important. Now that we know what primer, sealer, and undercoat are, let’s quickly summarize the main differences:

– Primer is applied to new surfaces; its main purpose is to help your paint adhere to the surface.

– Sealers are sometimes used in place of primer or before the primer and are especially useful for porous or otherwise weathered surfaces.

– Undercoat is used after primer or sealer or on surfaces that have already been painted. The undercoat strengthens the function of both primer and sealer.

Choosing the correct base coat for your project makes all the difference when painting. If you’re painting your home and are still unsure about the process, it can be beneficial to hire a professional. The pros at Perry Wellington- Winnipeg Painting Company will care for every detail so your home looks its best. Don’t hesitate to reach out today!