When it comes to painting wooden furniture, people tend to focus on the type of paint used or the colour. This leads to most people forgoing an essential decision – the type of primer to use. A primer is a layer of special paint applied to furniture before the final coating.
With several types of primers available on the market, narrowing down the right ones for your furniture can become difficult. In this blog, Graana.com features the best primers for wood furniture.
Why are Primers Used?
Primers offer several benefits that can drastically change the final look of your furniture. Primers are used for the following reasons.
Uniform Texture – A layer of primer before the final coating ensures that the surface has a uniform texture and the paint sticks to the surface effectively.
Prevents Stains – Primers can prevent stains on the newly painted surface and prevent the original colour of your furniture from showing up.
Long-lasting – Adding primer can allow the paint to last longer on any surface, increasing both durability and lifespan.
Switching Paint Types – If you plan on switching paint types, primers can help set the new type of paint on your furniture.
Types of Primers
Primers for wood furniture come in three types; latex, oil-based, and pigmented shellac. Each type has its uses based on the type of furniture and circumstances. Knowing which type is suitable for your furniture is essential before making any decision.
Latex-Based Primer
Latex-based primers are fast drying and flexible, making them perfect for wood. Wooden furniture made out of pine wood benefits the most as paint on this type of furniture is susceptible to peeling or cracking.
Latex-based primers can even out the surface which can be useful for areas that have been repaired or patched up. Minor stains on furniture such as crayons, lipstick, smoke, etc. can also be covered by latex primers. However, other types of primers do a better job at concealing stains.
Latex-based primers are water-soluble, making them easier to clean. These primers come with no-VOC formulas, making them a healthier alternative to oil-based primers.
Oil-Based Primers
One of the most versatile primers out there, oil-based primers, have been the industry standard for painting furniture. Their versatile nature is showcased by strong compatibility with oil-based and latex paints. This makes oil-based primers perfect for various surfaces, especially wooden furniture.
Oil-based primers are quite effective against stains and marks from everyday wear and tear. They can prevent the paint from fading, peeling, and cracking. Moreover, these primers are capable of sealing porous surfaces, making it easier to have an even finish.
However, oil-based primers do have certain drawbacks that need to be considered. These primers release a high concentration of volatile organic compounds or VOCs, which can be toxic in cases of prolonged exposure. These primers also require you to clean your applicators with solvents and thinners for cleaning.
Shellac Pigment Primers
The best stain-blocking primers in the market, shellac primers are perfect for wooden furniture. These primers can seal the wood and other surfaces, preventing damages from smoke stains, water, and scratches.
Shellac primers can be used with latex and oil-based paints, making them extremely versatile. However, these primers come with a set of drawbacks. They require alcohol and thinners to be cleaned off brushes and applicators, and they have a high concentration of VOC fumes.
Best Primers for Wooden Furniture
There are several brands out there that offer the best primers for wood furnitures. However, choosing the right one can be a tricky job. We have narrowed down the list of the best primers in the market so that you can find the right one for your furniture.
Rust-Oleum Zinsser Bulls Eye Primer
This water-based primer is perfect for newly painted wooden furniture, offering stain resistance and a uniform finish. The product offers the following features:
- Dries to the touch in almost 30 minutes.
- Stain blocking resistance.
- Uniform seal throughout the surface.
Kilz Premium High Hide Stain blocking latex primer
Perfect for wood that has a strong odour, the Kilz premium latex primer sticks to surfaces with ease and allows the paint to shine through truly. The product is highly stain-resistant and offers several benefits such as:
- 30-minute dry coat.
- Seals smoke and wood odour.
- Resistant against peeling, grease, and mould.
Zinsser Cover Stain Oil Primer Sealer
Another one of Zinsser’s top-selling products, this oil primer is perfect for adding an extra layer of protection to your wooden furniture. It offers the following features:
- Covers stains and seals surfaces.
- Adds an extra shine and glare.
- Extremely adhesive.
Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Latex Primer
The best option for indoor and outdoor wooden furniture, the Rust-Oleum latex primer, is a water-based formula capable of resisting chipping and scratches. It offers the following features:
- Outdoor durability.
- Water-based acrylic formula.
- Flat finish that can minimise imperfections.
Rust-Oleum Advanced Synthetic Shellac Primer
Offering the ultimate stain blocking technology, the Rust-Oleum shellac primer is the best choice for sealing wooden furniture. The product also offers the following features:
- Stain blocking.
- High hiding bright white.
- Hides wood and paint odour.
Having the right primers for wood furniture can make a notable difference, and knowing the different types can help you come to the right decision when making the final choice. This blog narrows down some of the best primers in the market so that you can get the best value for your furniture. For more information, visit Graana.com.
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