Choosing the right primer when painting over oil-based paint is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion and a durable finish, especially if you plan to use a latex topcoat. According to the provided reference, the best primer depends largely on the sheen or gloss level of the existing oil-based paint.
Choosing Your Primer Over Oil-Based Paint
Based on the reference, you should coat it with an oil or latex bonding primer. The specific choice can be guided by how shiny the original paint is:
- For really shiny oil-based paint: You'll want to use a primer like Kilz. Primers often compared to Kilz in this context are known for their strong adhesion over challenging surfaces, including high-gloss finishes. These are often shellac-based or high-quality oil-based bonding primers, though some latex bonding primers also perform well.
- For not too shiny oil-based paint: You can use a latex primer. This allows you to then apply a couple of latex topcoats over it.
The reference emphasizes allowing the primer to dry thoroughly before applying subsequent coats.
Why Use a Bonding Primer?
Oil-based paint, especially when glossy, creates a very hard, smooth surface that standard latex paints and primers can struggle to adhere to. A bonding primer is specifically formulated to stick to these difficult surfaces, providing a stable base for your new paint layers. Using a bonding primer prevents common issues like peeling, cracking, and poor coverage.
Primer Options Based on Sheen
Here’s a quick look at the recommended primer types based on the existing oil paint's gloss level, derived from the reference:
| Existing Oil Paint Sheen | Recommended Primer Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Really Shiny | Primer like Kilz | Excellent adhesion needed for high gloss. |
| Not Too Shiny | Latex primer | Suitable for lower sheens. |
| General Option | Oil or latex bonding primer | Provides good adhesion overall. |
Using the appropriate bonding primer ensures that your new paint finish, whether latex or oil-based, will bond effectively and last for years to come.
