Paint primers can be used for both interior and exterior paints.
Reasons to Prime Before Painting
When to Use Paint Primer
Primer isn’t always required.
There are three main types of primers: water-based (latex), oil-based, and shellac primers.
The Spruce / Tara Anand
If Youre Using Self-Priming Paint
Self-priming paint is essentially a paint that is thicker than regular paint.
Because it is thicker, it builds up higher and forms a thicker coat.
It is preferable to use a separate primer and paint.
Self-priming paint is not a miracle cure.
Laying down a thicker paint build makes for a weaker coat that takes longer to dry.
Tinted primer lets the color stand on its own, without competing against bottom colors.
Pre-tinted primers are available, too.
Typically, twocoats of primerare sufficient.
Even using primer, you’ll still want to apply the customary two coats of paint to the surface.
Paint primer on an exterior wall may last up to a year prior to painting the home.
But it will likely need to be washed first.
The shelf life of paint primer is two years.
Does Paint Expire?Glidden.
