Any professional painting job begins with a high-quality primer as a foundation. Generally, primers are applied to make a surface flawless and improve adhesion. If you skip primer, paint may fade or peel off at a certain point.
If you are looking to give your wardrobe a refreshing look, seal a porous material, or cover stains, an oil-based primer might be a perfect option.
In this post, you will learn what makes oil-based primers special and how to apply them like a pro.
What is Oil-Based Primer?
Oil-based primer, also called alkyd primer, is made of drying oils such as linseed oil, tung oil, or soybean oil, which dry when exposed to air. These oils are blended with alkyd resins for more flexibility, along with mineral spirits or turpentine as solvents.
Among many types of primers, oil-based primer is preferred for its excellent stain-blocking nature.
Oil-based primer also includes additives like driers and anti-skinning agents. In some cases, calcium carbonate is used as a filler to bring better consistency. Though it takes more time to dry than water-based primer, the wait will be worth it.
Application of Oil-Based Primer
Oil-based primers can be used on various surfaces. It makes it a flexible option for different painting projects. Some common applications include.
- Wood Surfaces
Oil-based primer is perfect for sealing porous wood. It prevents tannin bleed and ensures even paint application.
- Metal Surfaces
Oil-based primer helps prevent rust and improves adhesion on metal surfaces such as doors and railings.
- Previously Painted Surfaces
Oil-based primer ensures better bonding, especially when transitioning between different paint types.
- Stain-Prone Areas
Oil-based primer is perfect for you to stop stains caused by water damage, smoke, or ink.
When To Use Oil-Based Primer
Oil-based primers are not specified for all projects, but they are superior in certain situations. The oil-based primer should be considered when:
- It seals the porous surface, preventing uneven absorption of paint.
- Water stains or ink, nicotine, and even crayon marks won’t bleed through.
- The proper adhesion properties of oil paints or high gloss suggest the use of an oil-based primer when painting over them.
- It helps to prevent rust and to bind the metal and paint effectively.
Advantages of Oil-Based Primer
Oil-based primers have various advantages, and they are preferred by professional painters and DIYers alike. Some of the significant advantages are listed below.
Compatibility with Oil and Latex Paints
A prime advantage of oil primers is that they are compatible with both oil and latex paints. This makes it a versatile choice when transitioning between paint types. Latex paints can be applied on top of oil-based primers. Make sure the primer surface has been adequately cured and sanded for better adhesion.
Preventing Tannin Bleed
A common issue when painting over wood is tannin bleed. Some of the woods like cedar and redwood, naturally contain tannins. If you seal it inappropriately, these tannins may stain the surface. Then it produces ugly brownish marks on the paint. These primers seal the wood sufficiently to prevent any of these tannin troubles. They provide a guaranteed uniform finish.
Sealing Porous Surfaces
Wood, drywall, or any other porous surface absorbs paint. It results in an uneven finish. An oil primer would seal these surfaces so that they remain uniform. Oil-based primers also provide better adhesion and smoothness during painting. This is especially important for new/unfinished woods.
Stain Coverage
This is the most outstanding quality of oil primer: its ability to cover different stains. Water stains, smoke stains, ink stains, or whatever, the oil-based primer locks them all. It stops them from bleeding back through the topcoat. Oil-based primer is definitely an excellent choice if you are planning to paint a surface that is messy due to stubborn marks.
How to Apply Oil-Based Primer
Oil-based primers have some extra steps to follow compared to water-based primers. But the results are worth it. To get a meticulous finish, just follow the steps given below.
- First, clean the surface in order to remove any dust or any paint that exists.
- It is a good idea to use a good bristle brush or a quality roller to apply oil-based primers.
- There are chances that oil-based primers get separated. So, stir the well before applying.
- You have to make a thin and even coat so that it gets dried easily with better adhesion.
- As mentioned earlier, oil-based primers take almost 8 to 16 hours to dry. So, leave enough ventilation and don’t disturb the surface as it dries.
- Lightly sand the surface before painting if it appears rough for an even finish.
Oil-Based Primer vs. Water-Based Primer: Which is Better for Your Project?
The comparison between oil-based and water-based primers is listed in the table.
| Feature | Oil-Based Primer | Water-Based Primer |
| Drying Time | 8-16 hours | 1-2 hours |
| Odor | Strong, requires ventilation | Low odor |
| Durability | High, great for high-traffic areas | Moderate |
| Stain Blocking | Excellent for tough stains | Good for light stains |
| Cleanup | Requires solvents like mineral spirits | Easy cleanup with soap and water |
| Eco-Friendliness | High VOCs, not environmentally friendly | Low VOCs, a safer option |
Searching for a tough, stain-blocking primer for wood, metal, or previously painted surfaces? You can consider an oil-based primer. But if you are looking for a quicker-drying, eco-friendly option for general interior walls, you can choose a water-based primer, which might be better.
Conclusion
Oil-based primer is still a favorite for projects needing durability, stain blocking, and strong adhesion. When painting wood or metal surfaces or repainting, this primer provides a strong foundation for a spotless paint finish. Though oil-based primers tend to take longer to dry and have a strong odour, these disadvantages are completely overshadowed by the benefits offered.
Oil-based primers are worth it when you want the paint to last long. Now it’s upon you to put this knowledge to use in your next painting work!