Do I really need to use primer for my commercial building paint project?

Yes.

Can I skip the primer and reduce the cost and time it takes to paint?

You can, but you will not be happy with the results.

A primer coat helps prepare the surface for painting, improves the adherence of the paint, blocks stains and odors, protects against moisture, and seals surfaces. Quite simply, you will get better results that last longer, and you will be happier with the appearance of your commercial building.

Commercial Painting in Phoenix Requires Primer

Many building owners and facility managers have learned the lesson the hard way. They skipped the primer and laid down a coat or two of paint. The finish did not hold up, and they had to hire a commercial painting company in AZ to redo the job.

Here are some underlying reasons why you need a prime coat before applying your paint.

Prepare and Seals Surfaces

Primer prepares and seals the surface for a more uniform distribution of the final coat. While primer looks like other paints, it has a higher concentration of solids and an adhesive binder, which coats and seals the surface, making it a smooth, clean area for applying the paint.

Priming is especially important for surfaces that have not been painted or porous surfaces such as masonry or concrete, which may need multiple layers of paint for coverage. Priming is necessary when covering up dark colors, preventing bleed-through, painting brick, repainting after drywall repair, or painting new drywall.

Increases Paint Adherence

Primer produces a firm binding layer that prevents the paint from soaking into the surface and requiring additional coats. It creates a slightly sticky surface, which allows for better adhesion, meaning you get a smoother finish that will hold up longer.

Blocks Stains and Odors

Primers with stain-blocking properties seal and block stains and discoloration, making them easier to hide with a topcoat. When there are stains or discolorations in the substrate, it can be difficult to stop them from bleeding. Primer prevents bleed-through from occurring.

Protects Against Moisture

Moisture can cause problems if it gets beneath the surface or your paint. It can lead to mold, mildew, cracking and peeling paint, and — in some cases — structural damage. Primer seals the substrate to repel moisture.

Primer is essential in kitchens and bathrooms in commercial buildings, which may be exposed to high humidity. For building exteriors for commercial painting projects in Phoenix AZ, you must ensure optimal protection against rain and monsoon season downpours.

Primer can help prevent mold and mildew by providing a tight seal that prevents moisture from getting to the surface.

Creates a Higher-Quality, More Durable Results

Primers will make your finished job look better. They allow for a smoother finish that is more durable. Paint can be applied more smoothly, so it spreads better, and it may take less paint to produce the finish you want.

Surfaces with primers and topcoats are easier to clean and maintain.

Different Types of Primers

Different types of primers should be used depending on the type of surface. For example, there are different types of primer for:

  • Drywall
  • Wood
  • Masonry

There are also oil-based, latex, and shellac primers.

Choosing the correct type of primer for the proper application is crucial. If you do not apply a primer in advance, use low-quality primer products, or choose the wrong one, you will likely have to redo the job much sooner and significantly increase your costs.

Smooth, Long-Lasting Finish for Better Results

You need a primer to get the best protection and the smoothest and longest-lasting finish. The experts at Ghaster Painting & Coatings can recommend suitable primers for commercial painting in Phoenix, AZ.

Primer is not needed in every situation. Various specialty paints can be used in some circumstances, but you will want an expert opinion from someone who will back up their work with a guarantee to ensure the job gets done correctly.

Why Ghaster Painting & Coatings

Ghaster Painting and Coatings has more than 45 years of experience as a commercial painting contractor in Phoenix. We know the best practices and products that provide the long-lasting, durable, and beautiful finish you want for your commercial buildings.

You can trust Ghaster Painting & Coatings to do the job right the first time. We work hard to make commercial painting hassle-free and provide you with a commercial building you will be proud to show off.

Are you ready to get started on your commercial painting project in Phoenix? Call Ghaster Painting & Coatings at 602.806.1378 or request an estimate.

Author Kirsten Ghaster

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