With so many options on the market today, getting lost in the details is easy, but knowing what matters most will help guide you to the best decision.

Why You Need the Right Primer for the Job

Using the wrong primer or skipping this step can lead to peeling, staining, and uneven finishes. Nicholas points out that using a primer that doesn’t match the surface can lead to issues like “paint peeling off like a sticker,” which can be frustrating and costly. Each primer is specially formulated to address different challenges, whether it's sealing stains, improving adhesion, or providing a smooth surface to paint on. Using the right primer is key to achieving the perfect result.

The Challenges of Priming and Painting Drywall vs. Plaster

Priming drywall is relatively straightforward. Since drywall is a smooth, fresh surface, the goal is to create a uniform coat that seals in any seams or mudding. However, with plaster, especially older plaster walls, you’re dealing with a surface that may have absorbed moisture over time, developed cracks, or been painted with oil-based paint. This requires a more thorough priming process, as it’s essential to ensure adhesion and smooth out imperfections before applying the topcoat.

“One of the biggest challenges with plaster is the oil texture left over from old paints,” Nicholas says. “You need a primer that can handle that texture and lock it in place to create a stable surface.” Without this crucial step, even the highest quality paint may not adhere properly.

Preventing Runs or Sags When Spraying vs Rolling

Both spraying and rolling have their pros and cons, but when it comes to achieving a flawless finish, the technique is just as important as the product you’re using. For spraying, Nicholas advises adjusting the pressure to avoid runs. “If you’re using a thin primer like PVA, the spray pressure is crucial. Too high, and you’ll get drips,” he warns. For thicker primers, like Fresh Start, there’s a little more leeway, but controlling pressure and speed remains important.

If you prefer rolling, Nicholas recommends “back rolling” after spraying. This technique uses a roller to smooth out excess primer and level the texture. “Back rolling helps eliminate runs, ensuring a smoother, more consistent finish,” he explains.

What Homeowners Should Look for in a Residential Painter

When hiring a painter, it’s important to find someone who values preparation just as much as the final result. “The prep work accounts for 70% of the success of a painting project,” Nicholas emphasizes. Ensuring the painter takes time to properly clean, caulk, sand, and prime the walls can make all the difference in achieving a polished, professional finish. Good painters understand the importance of proper surface preparation and don’t cut corners.

Lastly, The Proper Order of Work in a Painting Project

Knowing the correct order of tasks is crucial for a smooth, efficient project. Nicholas explains, "You want to complete the rough surface work—priming and patching—before installing the flooring and trim. Once the floors are down and trim is in place, that’s when the finish work, including final painting, happens." This ensures that the finish coat isn’t compromised by the dust or debris accumulating when working in an unfinished space.

For professional advice and exceptional painting services, Nicholas Travalja at The Soucé Group can help with your next residential project. Reach out today for expert prep, priming, and flawless finishes that will give your home the makeover it deserves.

Jenny Kennedy of Kennedy Literary Agency provides copywriting and content for forward-thinking businesses and is the author of “Launch Into Interior Design and The Consultation Companion.”

Photo: BlueBird