Should You Use Primer Before Painting? Here’s What You Need to Know

Should You Use Primer Before Painting? Here’s What You Need to Know

Ah, primer — the product most people kinda know about but usually skip. But here’s the thing: primer can make or break your paint job. If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I really need primer?” — you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

What Is Primer, Anyway?

Primer is a preparatory coat applied before your paint. Think of it as a base that helps the paint stick better, cover imperfections, and create a smooth, durable finish. It’s basically skincare for your walls — primer preps the surface so your paint looks flawless.

When You Definitely Need Primer

Not every wall needs primer, but here are the times you really should use it:

✅ Bare drywall or fresh plaster: New surfaces are super absorbent. Primer seals them, so your paint doesn’t disappear into the wall.

✅ Stains, marks, or patched areas : Primer hides stains (watermarks, grease spots, etc.) and evens out patched sections so they don’t flash through the paint.

✅ Drastic color changes : Going from dark to light? Or bright to neutral? Primer saves you from applying endless coats of paint to cover the old color.

✅ Glossy surfaces : Paint struggles to stick to shiny surfaces like semi-gloss walls. A primer is your best friend here.

When You Can Probably Skip It

Primer isn’t always necessary — and we love a shortcut when it makes sense!

✅ Refreshing a wall with the same color and sheen
✅ Painting high-quality walls that are clean, dry, and in good condition
✅ Using high-quality paint (like Blu Paint!)

Our premium interior paint is formulated for rich coverage, making some primer situations optional — but when in doubt, ask us!

Why Primer = Better Results (and Saves Money Long-Term)

While it feels like an “extra step,” using primer can:

  • Prevent peeling or chipping

  • Help your true color shine

  • Reduce the number of paint coats needed

  • Make your finish last longer

Trust us — if you skip primer when you need it, you will notice (and regret it).

🏠 Pro Tip 

If you’re investing time and money into your space, start with the right foundation. Primer is your insurance for a smooth, professional finish — especially for high-traffic areas like kitchens, entryways, and bathrooms.

And remember, always test your color before going all in — lighting, primer, and surface type can all impact how it looks.

At Blu Paint, we make choosing the right paint easy — and we’re always here to help with the prep too. If you’re not sure whether to prime, send us a message — we love talking paint.

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