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9 Best Primer For Bare Wood Reviews and Buying Guide [2023]

If you are looking forward to painting the bare wooden floor surfaces in your house or anywhere, buying wood primers would be a good decision. Primers need to be applied to the surface before painting it.  Primers allow the paint to stick better to the wooden surface, which provides an even and beautiful finish. 

Applying a layer of primer on the surface eliminates the problem of peeling paint. Moreover, this step will reduce the number of layers of paint required. There are a wide variety of primers for wood available in the market. Before buying any primer, one has to make sure that it fits your requirements. 

Given below are the reviews of the best primer for bare wood. Besides that, to help you find the primer that will be most appropriate for your needs, consider the buying guide’s points. 

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1. KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Interior/Exterior Latex Primer/Sealer, White, 1-gallon – Best Overall

KILZ is one of the trustworthy brands which offer best-in-class primers. This primer is a versatile primer suitable for both indoors and outdoors.

Its stain-blocking technique can cover even the toughest stains or old paint on the wood. 

The moisture-blocking virtue of this primer saves the wood from problems like mildew and mold.

Therefore, it can be used in humid places as well, like bathrooms and laundry. The overall finish provided by this primer is outstanding.

Technical features and performance 

This primer provides a brilliant adhesive. After applying this primer, the process of painting becomes easier. It is great not only for new wood surfaces but also for old and painted wooden surfaces. Due to the absence of COV, there is hardly any odor and safe to work with. 

It is ideal for humid regions. With proper consistency and texture, it is easy to spread and apply. One gallon of this primer can cover an area of up to three hundred to four hundred square feet. It can dry within one hour and can be recoated. 

Is this product recommended?

With the high-performance and great finish it provides, this is a primer that is highly recommended. Based on the numerous buyers’ experiences, it is clear that this premier can even make the most damaged wooden surfaces look brand new. Therefore, it is a great choice.

Pros

  • Pretty simple to use.
  • Great value for money.
  • Good adhesive property.
  • Dries up very quickly.

Cons

  • It needs to be stirred repeatedly.

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2. KILZ L211101 Adhesion High-Bonding Interior Latex Primer/Sealer, White, 1-Gallon, 1 Gallon, 4 l – Best Budget

Are you having trouble painting a hard-to-paint wooden surface? If yes, then this primer is the solution.

This is highly adhesive, and the paint will easily stick to the surface. It is more efficient than other oil-based primers. 

This is a great bonding primer that is available at a reasonable price. No matter what kind of surface you are using it on, this will give smooth and uniform results. Hence, making it one of the best bare wood primers. 

Technical features and performance 

This primer can be applied using any tool of your choice, spray gun, brush, or roller. However, there are some rules to keep in mind.

In the case of a roller, it should be ⅜ to ½ inch for smooth surfaces and other, ½ to ¾ inch. If you are using a spray gun, its PSI should range from 2500 to 3200, while the tip should be 0.015 to 0.021 inches. 

With its perfect consistency, it is easy to spread. One gallon of this primer can cover a wide area of 300 square feet. It is dry to touch within half an hour of applying, and you can recoat it after an hour of applying. 

Is this product recommended?

This primer has many perks. It is highly durable and straightforward to apply. The performance of this bonding primer is outstanding.

According to the buyers, the packaging is done properly to make sure that there is no leakage. Thus, the buyers advise others to invest in their product. 

Pros

  • Great reliability.
  • Pretty simple to use.
  • Does not have a strong odor.
  • Highly adhesive.

Cons

  • Not the best at stain-blocking.

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3. INSL-X SXA11009A-01 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer, 1 Gallon, White – Best for Walls and Doors

This premium acrylic primer is a great product. Whether you have any prior experience of priming or not, you will find it extremely easy to apply. Even if you do not have a spray gun, you can apply it using a brush. 

Just make sure that the surface is properly clean and free from any loose dust particles or grease before you apply the primer. Following the proper instruction will result in an even and perfect finishing. 

Technical features and performance?

Whether you are working with glossy tiles, pre-coated wooden surfaces, or any other, this acrylic primer will efficiently coat any surface. Not only that, once the coating and painting process is completed, cleaning them is also easy. 

This dries up and is ready to coat again after three to four hours. If you need to cover around three hundred to four hundred square feet of the area, then one gallon of this primer will suffice. It is most suitable for doors and walls. 

Is this product recommended?

The feedback given by multiple users suggests that this product is just what it promises. The buyers loved the result this primer provided and would suggest it to others as well. Therefore, it is a product you can buy without any hesitation. 

Pros

  • Good texture.
  • Easy to apply on wooden surfaces.
  • Low volatility.
  • It can be cleaned with just soap and water.

Cons

  • Durability is low.
  • Stains remain visible.

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4. Rust-Oleum 2004 Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer, 1 Quart, 946 ml, White – Best Waterproofer

The fourth on the list, this primer is packed with many brilliant features. It is one of the best in the aspect of durability. This is a latex primer but offers the perks of both oil-based and water-based primers. 

It is also available for ease of use in an aerosol spray paint formula to apply in hard to access areas through a paintbrush or a roller. Moreover, it gives impressive results with a latex or oil overcoat. 

Technical features and performance 

It has all the features one would expect in a durable primer. This primer is protected against rust. With its moisture-blocking virtue, it is also effective against mildew and mold. Moreover, the stain-resistant feature keeps the surface free from grease oil or any other form of stain. 

It is quick to dry and recoated after one or two hours of applying. The area which one quart of this primer can cover is 100 square feet. The finishing of this primer neither scrapes nor peels easily. 

Is this product recommended? 

There is no doubt that it is a highly recommended primer. Reputed for its dependability, it also has simple instructions that will yield a significant result when followed correctly. Moreover, it is less volatile, and hence you do not need to wear a mask while applying this primer to save yourself from the harmful odor.

Pros

  • Highly reliable.
  • The price is appropriate.
  • Almost negligible odor.
  • Pretty simple to use.

Cons

  • It may require three or more layers.
  • Packaging could be better.

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5. Zinsser 03504 Cover Stain Interior/Exterior Oil Primer Sealer, 1-Quart, White – Most Weather Resistant

Last but not least, this primer is ideal for both exterior and interior priming. The finish it offers is shiny and flat. The unevenness of the wooden surface can be successfully leveled by using this primer. 

If you want to cover up some stains on the old wooden surface, this primer will be able to do this effortlessly. It is specially made for wooden surfaces and acts as an excellent adhesive for the paints. 

Technical features and performance

This primer is not only great at hiding stains but also acts as a water seal. This inhibits the contact of moisture to the wooden surface and hence acts as a protection against mildew. Its consistency is balanced and easy to apply. 

The time taken by this oil-based primer is an hour. Sand and clean the surface thoroughly before applying the primer so that when it is applied, there is no unevenness or bubbles. Also, its performance is outstanding. 

Is this product recommended?

The reviews of this product indicate that this primer works perfectly. The stain-resistant and moisture-resistant nature of this primer make it suitable for regularly exposed surfaces to water, grease, etc. Hence, this is a primer worth buying. 

Pros

  • Brilliant adhesive.
  • The price is feasible.
  • Moisture and stain-resistant.

Cons

  • It emits an intense odor.

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6. Zinsser 00904 B-I-N Pigmented Shellac Primer-Sealer & Stain Killer, White, 1 Quart – Best Exterior Wood Primer

The Zinsser 00904 B-I-N Pigmented Shellac Primer-Sealer & Stain Killer is the best exterior wood primer. If you are somebody who does a lot of outdoor work on your wood, then you might consider the product. 

Besides, the primer-sealer is ideal for covering up the stains present on your wood. Sometimes these stains can ruin the elegant appearance of the coated wood. Moreover, you can also seal the wood using this primer. 

Technical Features And Performance

It comes with a thick consistency, and that is a good thing. You know that the primer is durable and will last for years where you have painted it. An essential factor for any primer is instant drying which is found here. 

The need to wait for several hours is not there before applying the primer coat. Also, there is no need to degloss and sand the surface first before using the primer. It works just fine on any surface.  

The primer-sealer is suitable for performing several applications like bare wood, interior surfaces, and synthetic materials. It can effortlessly remove stains, including rust, oil, grease, water, tannin, and mildew.

Is This Product Recommended?

Using this best odor-blocking primer, you can quickly get a balanced paint job. Besides, foul odors like fire damage, smoke stains, and pet urine get covered with it once you have painted on the surface. But it comes with a very pungent smell, and you might want to wear a mask when working on it.

Pros

  • The paint has a thick consistency.
  • You can effortlessly apply the paint on most surfaces.
  • It can cover odors and stains easily.
  • It can sap streaks and also seal knots.
  • The paint dries extremely quickly, allowing recoat.

Cons

  • Sadly, the paint has an unmistakable pungent smell to it.

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7. Rust-Oleum 272479 Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Spray Primer, White – Best Primer For Wood Trim

Our following product is the Rust-Oleum 272479 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 spray primer. We choose this product because of its ability to finish your project quickly once you sand the surface of the wood that you want to apply the paint.

Though it comes in a spray can, the coverage is quite acceptable. It hides stains, smoke, and water stains too. The primer prevents the topcoat from scraping and coming away easily. You know that once you have applied the primer, the paint will remain there for several years.

Technical Features And Performance

On some surfaces where applying paint might seem impossible, the primer comes in handy on them. You can make use of regular paint on them, and it is able to cover and eliminate unwanted problems like dust, mold, water damage, and bad odors. 

You can paint on them, not worrying about the repairs if they happen. Besides, the primer allows you to generate a smooth layer. There is a sublime coating on the surface that appears elegant and even. 

Is This Product Recommended?

Moreover, it covers all the unwanted colors that help the pain to require less amounts of a coat. It protects items from wear and weathering issues when you use them. You can use the primer for a wide range of surfaces, including wood, metal, plaster, concrete, and so on. 

You may want to avoid using the primer on plastic or slippery surfaces because they may not gel well. 

Pros

  • The primer can be used on new painted & difficult surfaces.
  • The oil-based formula is able to seal the primer without sanding.
  • It can dry quickly and can cover an area of up to 12 square feet.
  • It offers you exceptional stain-blocking resistance and can be used on an oil topcoat.
  • The primer is designed to offer a smooth, white finish and block imperfections.

Cons

  • You may want to avoid using it on plastic or slippery surfaces.

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8. KILZ Original Primer, Interior, 1 Quart – Best Primer For Wood Furniture

The KILZ Original Primer is a product that can fit into any budget that you are looking for. The maker has been in this business for several decades now and was also named Paint Brand of the Year by the Harris Poll EquiTrend Rankings in the year 2015.

Technical Features And Performance 

Besides, you can also cover bare wood with paint that can last for several years. The primer can be used on any surface, making the paint appear elegant on it. Moreover, you get to save on paint because you don’t use too much of it. 

That is a good sign of a top-notch primer. The primer is able to cover stains and odors present on the surface of the wood. Most stains, including ink, marker, grease, and others, can be blocked using the primer. 

It is able to seal smoke and pet urine odors too. You can work on a wide range of surfaces using this primer like paneling, wood, drywall, plaster, brick, metal, and fully prepared shiny surfaces. You may want to mix it well before you plan on using it on any surface you wish to. 

Is This Product Recommended?

Of course, you would also want to get rid of dirt, dust, and peeling paint from the surface before applying the primer. You can use it on ceilings and walls if you wish. It dries pretty fast, within 30 minutes, which is fantastic. 

You can use a top coat after 60 minutes because of this element in it. You can effortlessly cover an area of 300-400 square feet. 

Pros

  • The primer gives an elegant appearance to the paint coating.
  • It can dry fast within 30 minutes.
  • You can notice that it gels well on a wide range of surfaces, both indoors and outdoors.
  • It covers heavy odors and stains efficiently.
  • The product is priced at an affordable price.

Cons

  • Unfortunately, it can get sticky and challenging to clean up.

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9. Rust-Oleum 224430T Painter’s Touch Latex Primer, Quart, Flat White Primer – Best Stain Blocking Primer

Our following product is the Rust-Oleum 224430T Painter’s Touch Latex Primer. Produced from a reputed manufacturer, you know that you are using a primer that can come in handy on a wide range of home projects. 

Technical Features And Performance

The main feature of this primer is that you can use it on either indoor or outdoor projects with ease. It works like a charm on surfaces like plaster, metal, and wood surfaces. Besides, you can also use it on masonry or unglazed ceramic surfaces. 

The water-based acrylic formula does not come with an odor and offers intense protection on the application surface. Besides, it also resists chipping from happening. You can cover close to 120 square feet using the primer. 

It can dry under 30 minutes allowing you to finish your project in time. Moreover, you can also begin to recoat after an hour. The finish is relatively flat, allowing you to experience a very smooth surface.

Is This Product Recommended?

There is an excellent base, but you may want to sand the surface of the wood to ensure proper coating. The maker recommends using 180/200 grit sandpaper. You might want to wash it using a degreaser, let it dry, and then use the paint. 

Some users suggest using 3 mild layers of coat for best results. You might consider using a brush and not a roller, if possible. There is no problem with this primer. 

Pros

  • The primer works primarily for outdoor and indoor projects.
  • It does not have any odor and provides intense protection.
  • Users can cover close to 120 square feet. 
  • You can use it on a wide range of surfaces.
  • It comes at a cheap price.

Cons

  • You might face issues when applying slippery surfaces.

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Primer vS. Paint: What is the Difference? 

Primers have resins that seal up porous wooden surfaces to provide a suitable base for a top coat of paint to be placed onto it, whereas paint comprises resin pigments (which produce color). Utilizing a wood primer has numerous benefits: 

  • When you’re done painting, it creates a smooth surface. Unless you use it, the wood strands may show through the paint after you’ve completed painting the exterior. 
  • Primers for wood often dry in a flash. 
  • Paint sprayed on the wood’s surface will stay there for a lot longer if this is done beforehand. 
  • Primers explicitly designed for woodwork to remove the wood’s natural color before adding paint. 
  • Applying a wood primer before painting improves the paint job by reducing the likelihood of cracking and peeling. 

Types Of Primer

When you want your coated surface to appear as if done by a professional, you need to use a top-notch primer. Though you can find several primers in the market, not all of them need to be good. 

Only a handful are known to get the job done. That is what we have recommended for you above. The best part about the primer is that it can adapt to any surface you want to apply it on. 

It could be metal, drywall, wood, and even concrete, and it elegantly provides you with a sublime foundation and splendid coating result. That is why choosing the right kind of primer for your surface is crucial. 

That will have a massive say on the outcome of your project. Below we have discussed the most commonly found primer paints. Each of them comes with its own advantages and cons. When you want to get a primer for yourself, you have to decide on the surface you plan to paint. 

When you are not sure about them, we have briefly described each of them for you to understand, which might suit your needs. As you can see, there is quite a handful for you to choose from, including:

  1. Shellac Primer: The Shellac primer is the most suitable for sealing wood surfaces. Moreover, you can use it to seal other surfaces too. The unit comes with exceptional stain-blocking features. Besides, the primer does not allow any bleeding inside the paint. It also dries quickly, enabling you to finish the job efficiently. After it gets dried, you can then apply the oil-based paint. But the primer tends to give out fumes, so please use a mask or perform the task in a nicely-ventilated area. 
  1. Latex Primer: The second type of primer is the latex kind. They are popular for paint projects because of their ability to dry quickly. This feature in them makes them ideal for projects that need to be completed hastily. Besides drying rapidly, the primer does not peel out easily. You can mix them with water, and they are simple to clean. Additionally, it comes with low VOC levels. They do not give out harmful fumes and are environmentally friendly. 
  1. Masonry Primer: The masonry primer is most ideal for applying on different wood surfaces, and it provides you with massive pH levels on the wood and adhesion properties too. Besides, it is suitable for preventing white deposits from occurring on the surface.
  1. Stain-Blocking Primer: The stain blocking primer is another popular type of primer. They are used for covering water stains and also smoke. This allows you to get ready the wood surface for a fresh coat of paint. It works its charm when you use it on something that is lighter than dark surfaces. 
  1. Bonding Primer: The bonding primer is another popular kind that can be found on a wide range of surfaces. Some of them include ceramic tiles, vinyl, and plastic, and they come with the capability to work on paint surfaces. When you are in search of the best exterior wood primer, then you know what to do.
  1. Multipurpose Primer: The multi-purpose primer is a versatile type of primer. When you are looking for a primer that can just do the job, then you might want to go for it. However, you may want to use a top-notch primer by choosing a reputed brand. 

Advantages Of Using A Primer For Bare Wood

Below are some of the advantages of using a primer for bare wood. 

  • The primer can protect the surface of the bare wood. 
  • The primer lets you have a protective layer between the surface of the wood and the paint. It ensures that the paint remains longer on the wood. Moreover, the wood does not get damaged easily. 
  • The primer helps the wood retain its looks and gives a pleasant appearance to it. You can paint the primed wood anywhere, both indoors and outdoors. Of course, you would want to make use of the right kind of primer. Nature elements like mildew, decay, and rot do not affect the quality of the surface of the wood. 
  • The primer helps the paint coating on the surface of the wood not to have any bubbles or peels on it. 
  • The surface of the wood becomes smoother and loses particles, if any, and becomes tighter and nicer. The paint is able to stick to the surface of the wood, enhancing the appearance of the indoor décor or outdoor surroundings.

Oil-Based VS. Water-Based: Which Is Better For Bare Wood?

  • Both oil-based and water-based primers are suitable for bare wood. They provide you with a similar effect. 
  • The oil-based primer is usually applied on bare wood. It helps the bare wood dry faster and creates a hard finish. The primer provides you with an elegant finish and enhances its appearance. 
  • Unfortunately, they take a while to dry. So, if you are in a hurry to complete a project, then you might want to have additional time or use an alternative. Besides, if you are residing in a cool or rainy region, you may wish to use water-based primers. 
  • Not to mention, oil-based primers are typically used by professional painters. If you are not used to primers, paints, and chemicals, you may make a big mess. However, the aluminum exterior wood primer is ideal for use on prime wood. 
  • Likewise, the water-based primer is another option that you want. They provide you with immense coverage on the surface of the wood applied. When you are looking for a wide range of coverage, then it can come in very handy. 
  • They also dry fast and don’t come with VOC. Sadly, you may not want to use them during the rainy season because they can end up affecting the surface of the wood with water-borne stains.
  • It often happens on acrylic paints. Overall, both oil-based and water-based primers come with their own benefits and cons as well. Depending on the surface of the wood, the drying time required, and the budget, you can make use of them. 

What Kind Of Primer Is Best For Bare Wood?

We would highly recommend the use of the Zinsser 00904 B-I-N Pigmented Shellac Primer-Sealer & Stain Killer. It is the best primer for bare wood because it comes with seals knots and saps streaks, gets rid of the pet urine odor, and can be applied on all wood surfaces.

Moreover, it dries quickly, ready for another recoat. Yes, it can be costly, but this sealer can do a lot when you compare it to other primers. It is a value for the product. When you want to use the best product for your next home project, then you might want to consider using it. 

Having said that, the other primers mentioned on the list are exceptional in their own way. Each of them comes with their unique features and are highly rated by users. So, you might want to make your choice depending on your requirements and preference. 

Is it Better to Use Paint or Paint with Primer? 

Since each kind of paint and primer has its quirks, it’s usually best to apply them individually. Colour adds aesthetic value and protects wood from weather and insects that may otherwise cause harm. In contrast, the wood is protected by a sealant layer provided by the primer. Primers prevent stains from penetrating the wood’s surface and provide a firm anchor for subsequent paint coats. 

  1. Use a paint with primer if the surface you want to paint already has an existing coat of paint. Priming is not always necessary before painting, although in most cases, it is. 
  2. A primer with bonding capabilities is needed to guarantee that the top coat of paint clings appropriately to the smooth surface of the glass, tiles, polymerizing vinyl chloride (PVC), and similar materials. The paint would not adhere to the surface without the proper adhesion provided by the primer. 
  3. Shellac primers effectively cover unpleasant odors, while stain-blocking primers prevent stains from penetrating the wood’s surface. Even with paint and primer, the stain would eventually penetrate. 

Buyer’s Guide

In the buying guide, we discuss the key factors which are vital to consider while choosing a primer for your wooden surfaces. These factors play a leading role in finding you a product that is best primer for wood according to your needs. 

1. Type Of Primer 

There are mainly three types of primers, namely, oil-based, latex, and shellac primer. Every primer is designed for different purposes. Oil-based primers are great in durability.

They remain unaffected by any change in temperatures. Due to their non-stain virtue, they are great for wooden surfaces that are constantly exposed to human contact, especially little children. 

This type of primer’s major setback is that it can take more than a day to dry and are not easy to clean. Moreover, they are highly volatile and have a strong odor that can be harmful to health in large quantities. Thus, you require to wear sufficient protective gear while working with it. 

Latex primers or acrylic are more versatile than oil-based primers that mean it can be used on multiple surfaces. Due to the absence of any volatile compound, it emits no odor and is easy to work with. Time taken to dry completely is only three to four hours.

The major drawback of acrylic primers is that they are not very efficient in covering up stains. You have to make sure that the surface you are applying primer on is free from strain and is even. 

Shellac primers are great for indoor purposes. It has the perks of both oil-based and latex primers. It is simple to use, dries up quickly, and a smooth finishing. It can be coated on already painted or stained surfaces as well.

However, it is volatile, and you might need to put on a mask while applying it. Every primer has some pros and cons. It can be hard to say which one of them is the best wood primer. This decision depends on what specifications you want in your primer. 

2. Variety Of Wood

The primer you should buy also depends on what kind of wooden surface you are planning to paint. Different types of wood act differently with primers.

Hence, it is necessary to research what kind of primer you should buy for the wood of your choice. For instance, some woods that are easy to paint are redwood, white pine, cedar, etc.

3. Time-Taken To Dry 

Time taken to dry varies from primer to primer. Some can take more than twenty-four hours to dry, while some just take a few hours. However, the ones that require more time offer greater durability than the others.

It completely depends on your requirements. For instance, if you need the paint indoors and want to finish your work quickly, then a quickly-drying primer is advisable.

4. Stain-Resistant

Stain-resistant is an essential property of a primer. Ensure that the primer you choose has this property. Due to this feature, the paint remains new-looking even after a long period.

Also, it makes the surface easy to clean with just soap and water. Hence, you do not need to spend hours of time and effort cleaning the surface. 

5. Price 

There are many primers available in the market, and it can be hard to identify which ones are good. It is not always necessary that an expensive primer will be the best.

The best way to make sure that you are not spending too much money on a primer that is not worth it is by deciding what virtues you want in your primer. 

Decide whether you want an oil-based or water-based primer and compatible with the kind of wood you have. Collate different primers with the same feature and analyze the customers’ feedback to find which one offers great value for money. This way, you will get a list of primers that are apt for your needs and also at the best price.

How To Apply A Primer In The Correct Way?

Primer is an essential step in the procedure of painting. However, it will only be fruitful when priming is done in the right way.

To apply a coat of prime in the right manner, you not only need the right tools but also need to prep the surface which is supposed to be primed. 

The first step in priming is making sure that the surface is ready to be primed by cleaning it. Use sandpaper to scrape the surface. Remove the dust particles, grease, oil or any other impurity from the surface to make it even.

You can even wash the surface if you find it convenient. However, then you need to make sure that the surface is completely dry before putting the primer. Once the surface is completely clean, you can apply the layer of prime. 

There are three ways through which you can apply the prime, brush, roller or spray gun. Using a roller or brush ensures a more accurate and even coat.

However, these tools make the process time-taking and tedious. Also, they create a lot of mess. Spray gun, on the other hand, is simpler to use. Although, then you will have to do coating more than once. 

The kind of brush, size of the roller and pressure or tip of the spray gun, which is suitable for the prime, is usually mentioned in the specification of the product.

Make sure that the tools you have are according to the information provided by the manufacturer. Apply the primer and let it dry for an hour or more, depending on the primer you are using before your recoat or paint.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What kind of primers are recommended for new and for painted woods?

A1. Many people are unfamiliar with the fact that new and painted wooden surfaces require different types of primers. A brand new wooden surface free from any stain is less problematic, and any kind of primer will work well with it. A high-grade oil-based or latex primer will give you optimum results. 

Woods that have already been painted or have stains require more preparation. You need to ensure that the old paint is properly scraped off and the surface is completely clean. After this, apply a coat of best-in-class oil-based primer for an outstanding finish once the painting process is complete.

Q2. How to prepare the surface before applying the primer?

A2. Irrespective of what tools you are using to apply the primer, the first step should always be preparing the wooden surface for it. Only then you can expect to have favorable results. First, scrape off the old paint from the surface if present. Use a medium-grit sanding paper to get rid of any other impurity present on the surface. 

Clean the surface meticulously using a cloth or wash it if you find it convenient. This will remove all the debris and other loose particles. If you are washing the surface, make sure the surface is dry before applying the primer. This process will ensure that the primer sticks properly to the wood and makes the coating uniform throughout.

Q3. Why is priming necessary?

A3. Applying a layer of primer before painting serves various purposes. Primer builds a blockage between the paint and the wood, which prevents moisture from reaching the wood. This increases the life of the wood as moisture has many deteriorating effects like mold, mildew, etc. 

Priming evens out the surface of the wood. Therefore, when you apply the paint, it gives a smooth and crack-free finish. Primer also hides stains or old paint, which might be visible when only paint is used. Thus, a primer is necessary before painting on wooden surfaces. 

Q4. How to choose the colour of the primer?

A4. Primers are usually available in two colours, grey and white. People often think that the colour of the primer is not important. Although, the colour of the primer should be as per the colour of the paint you are going to use. 

If you are going to topcoat the primer with a dark colour, then a grey colour primer is advisable. On the other hand, for a bright colour, you should go for the primer with white colour. If you do not use the right primer, then the paint finishing will look faded no matter how many layers of paint you add.

Q5. Is tinting the primer beneficial?

A5. Tinting the primer refers to the process of adding the same colour as your top coating so that you do not require to apply more than one coating of paint to hide the primer. You can tint the primer by adding some of the topcoats to it. Although, for this, the primer should be white.

Start by adding one part of paint to four parts or primer and stir well. Also, remember that the paint and primer are similar, that latex primer should only be mixed with latex paint and similarly for oil-based. This will give you a mixture with a slight hint of the colour of the paint. Using this process, the paint will look more vibrant and accurate. Thus, tinting the primer will be very helpful.

Q6. How do prime wood for painting?

A6. You need to prime the wood before painting, and that provides the surface with the right amount of elements to absorb the primer efficiently. You have to get rid of the dust, dirt, and other kinds of debris on the surface of the wood. 

This should be done before applying the first layer of paint and allowing it to dry efficiently. You might want to sand down the coating, too, if an uneven surface is found on it. This basically provides you with a smooth surface to apply the primer. 

Q7. Why should you prime wood before painting?

A7. As we read above, you must prime the wood before painting it so that the paint is absorbed efficiently onto the surface of the wood. Besides, you do not want dirt or dust ruining the primer layer on the wood. 

The wood primer won’t adhere appropriately unless you prep the surface beforehand. You have to sand it properly so that the paint cracking and peeling are removed. Besides, cleaning the surface provides you with a smooth surface to operate on.

Q8. How long does primer take to dry on wood?

A8. This aspect depends on the product or model you are using on the surface of the wood. Additionally, your local climate will have a say in the drying time. However, some primers can dry faster than most others.
 
When you apply a primer to the wood, it takes less than 50 minutes. However, that is the minimum required time for the primer to dry. The primer should be allowed to dry for close to 1-5 hours at least. Instead of an oil-based primer, you may consider a water-based primer if you are in a hurry.

Q9. How many coats of primer on wood?

A9. You would want to apply a few coats of primer on the surface of the wood. Usually, around 2-3 coats of primer are applied. You can choose to use it with the help of a roll, brush, or spray, whatever is ideal for your requirement. 

You will want to ensure that the coat is applied somewhat thin depending on the tool you want to use. You need to let it dry for 6-8 hours at least. After it has dried, you can remove the putty away using sandpaper and then apply the second layer of the primer.

Q10. Can you leave the primer unpainted?

A10. You might not want to leave the primer unpainted, and that is because they can break down due to weather elements and exposure to dust & dirt. It is best to use a good quality paint product because it protects the wood and provides it with an elegant look.

Q11. What if I don’t prime before painting? 

A11. Since the deeper wood color sometimes shows through the top coat of paint, priming the surface first is highly recommended. 

Q12. Does Every Primer Work With Every Paint? 

A12. It’s usually not like that. In most cases, a primer’s compatibility with a paint’s kind may be predicted. 

Q13. How To figure out what type of paint has been previously used on the surface? 

A13. A small surface area may be tested by rubbing a moist cotton ball/pad/swab over it. If the paint does not come off with a damp rag, it is likely oil-based and will need priming. If the paint peels, you know it’s latex or water-based paint and may use whatever color you choose to cover it. 

Q14. What is the Best HVLP Spray Gun For Woodworking?

A14. Here are the top 3 –
1. Fuji 2203G Semi-PRO 2 -HVLP Spray. 
2. Earlex HV5500 HVLP Spray. 
3. REXBETI Ultimate-750 Sprayer. 

Conclusion

Many paints for wood advertise that they do not require a primer prep. However, a primer is crucial if you want a professional-looking and uniform finish on the wooden surfaces. Thanks to the plenty of options to choose from, there is a primer for everyone. 

Hence, one should not avoid buying a primer. We hope that the information provided in this article was helpful for you. Remember to keep the key factors mentioned in the buying guide to find the best primer for bare wood for yourself.

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