Paint primers and sealers are coatings designed to prepare the surface for the finish coats of paint or clear finishes. Primers seal the surface and provide a surface for the finish paint to adhere to. They are used on bare wood and metal, previously painted surfaces that have been repaired or are in poor condition such as flaking, and peeling. Primers and sealers also block out stains.

Paint primers and sealers insure a long lasting paint surface as the resins in the finish paints stay on the surface creating a wear layer. With the correct primer or sealer any paint peeling and premature failure is eliminated.

Paint primers and paint sealers prepare the surface for the finished paint. Both paint primers and sealers are formulated to take latex paints (water based) and alkyd paints (oil based). These are the most common types of paint used in home painting today for both inside and outside painting.

The type of paint primer or sealer used depends on the type of finished paint used. Enamel primers and sealers do not work well with latex paints and vice versa. Always follow the manufactures recommendation when using primers and sealers.

The primer, sealer and finish paint you use depends on how much wear and tear the surface is exposed to and what sheen or gloss you want for a finish. If you are not sure of which combination of primer, sealer and finish to use on your project discuss your concerns with the clerk at the paint department of your home improvement supply store. They can provide you with a wealth of information that you can rely upon.

Painting Stripes on Interior Walls

Painting with Alkyd Based Enamel Paint

Painting with an Airless Paint Sprayer

Painting with Latex Paint