When can new walls be painted?
New masonry should be allowed to dry out for 6 weeks before primer is applied.
Why is surface preparation important?
Inadequate surface preparation is the biggest single reason why paint failures occur. Depending on the condition of the surfaces being painted, proper surface preparation might include cleaning, repairing, patching, sanding, masking and priming. Each of these steps are described below in greater detail, for both interior and exterior painting:
When is priming necessary?
Some surfaces must be primed before painting, to ensure the best possible results. Primers are normally used for one or more of the following reasons:
- To fill and seal the pores in surfaces like bare wood or weathered masonry.
- To provide a smooth, even surface for the finish coat, especially for enamel topcoats.
- To cover the substrate, so the topcoat will hide better.