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[Ricardo]

I guess we've all just painted over the existing surface a few times, but I've seen the worthwhile results in using a good primer, including products that specifically hide previous water damage.

I guess it also makes a difference if you own your property or are renting and trying to renovate on a budget.

Does everyone here use primer when they paint?

[KrisNY]

We always use a primer first- At least 2 coats. Primer is cheaper than the good paints that we use. It also coats the wall. So it saves you money in the long run. Not as much paint needs to be put on the walls- The walls already sucked the primer in.

[bammer]

yup! the primer serves to do the job of basing the wall or surface. that way, second coating colors come in more economically. i guess its a must in fact!

[Ricardo]

I've also used a primer product in an aerosol can to cover the marks from water damage on a stucco ceiling. I think it was called Killzit, or something like that.

It worked very well.

[Moondance]

Does priming also help get rid of old odors, like smoke or pet odors?

I want to freshen a room in my home that still smells of a cat that a friend had here during a week long stay.  It's not too bad but I'd like to get it under control.

[puffie224]

I recently painted my dining room red and was thrilled that the priming process was easier today than in earlier years. I had to use a good quality grey primer to get the bright rich red color I wanted. It worked out so great.

[bammer]

to moondance: i guess the odors might just be 'overshadowed' by the smell of the primer as painting. but i believe it cant erase the said odors totally. it might just come back after the primer has dried up. better have an aerosol spray to remove the odors first.

[AJPope]

I always prime!! Get the primer tinted to be the same hue as your paint and it's even better! It allows to buy less paint, apply fewer coats, and for the color to be very even. Works especially well if you're using a vibrant color like red.

[zebro]

Yea! last when i painted my house i used primer, two coats. It is a preparatory material before painting. It gives better adhesion tot he paint surface.

[tanya]

Primer is a preparatory coating to put on materials before painting. Priming ensures better adhesion of paint to the surface, increase paint durability and provides additional protection for the material being painted.  

[antkmom]

Definitely!  Primer is a must when painting.  Especially if you are covering a new color or on a new wall.  It lets you start out fresh.