Paint and Primer in One?

Many paint manufacturers are now promoting a paint in their product line that claims it is a paint and primer in one. It seems like a perfect solution to avoid priming a surface before painting. Can you avoid priming before painting with these paints? The answer we all love is..it depends.

When will it Work?

These paints claim to have better hide, so that you don’t have to use as many coats of paint. If your surface is already painted and doesn’t have major patches beyond small spackled nail holes it can work. I still recommend two coats to get the best results and to make sure that your ceilings and/or walls don’t flash.

When it Won’t Work

If you have a new surfaces (drywall & bare wood), drywall patches, new texture, hard and/or glossy areas, soiled spots or areas with odor. Surfaces that have been previously painted with oil based paint. In these instances it is best to use a specific primer for the problem you are trying to address. The priming capabilities of the paint and primer in one paints will not be able to take on all priming challenges.

My Opinion

In today’s world most paint manufacturers are making a decent quality paint if you are not buying their low end priced paint. The majority of time we are putting on two coats of paint to ensure an even finish of color and sheen that will last. A mid level paint will from Sherwin Williams (Cashmere) or Benjamin Moore (Regal) will hide just as well as the paint and primer in one from the big box stores.

You may not be able to get the best of both worlds in a can, but you will when it comes to quality and customer experience with my team. Give us a call today 697-5135 for a quote or schedule a time below.