Choosing a primer for walls: everything you need to know. Deep penetration acrylic primer: what is it for and application technology Rating of acrylic primers

It is necessary to prime surfaces during the repair process. The primer acts as a link between the base and subsequent layers or finish. With its help, roughness is removed, finishing material consumption is reduced by approximately 30%. Theoretically, in some types of work it is not necessary to prime surfaces. But in practice, the lack of a primer brings extra costs. In some problem areas, it is necessary to use a special primer. To find out which primer to choose for walls, you need to understand its varieties.

Types of primers

Ordinary concrete and brick wall Can be coated with universal primer. But even for a room with a normal humidity level there are nuances. For example, for heavy non-woven wallpaper, you should choose a material with deeper penetration and powerful adhesive properties.

Primers are combined into groups depending on the area of ​​application. The composition of the primer for walls and other surfaces is also important:

  • Alkyd used for wood processing and metal surfaces.
  • Acrylic often called universal because they are used for processing wood, drywall, brick and concrete. This type is capable of penetrating 10 cm deep into the surface, therefore it is used for deep impregnation.
  • Aluminum are also used to impregnate wooden surfaces. These primers are able to completely isolate the wood from moisture and prevent the occurrence of mold and mildew.
  • Polyvinyl acetate used for impregnation of wood, concrete, metal and plastered surfaces. This type is used only in conjunction with special paint.
  • Silicate used for processing sand-lime bricks and decorative plaster on building facades.
  • Shellac prevent the tree from releasing resins.
  • Epoxy used for deep impregnation of concrete and metal surfaces. They protect the metal from corrosion and provide concrete with strong adhesion to self-leveling floors.

When choosing a primer mixture, it is necessary to take into account the material from which the main surface is made, the characteristics of the room and the material used for finishing works.

This type of primer is used for processing porous, loose and weak substrates. It can strengthen a “capricious” surface and significantly reduce paint consumption. This is an excellent primer for puttying, painting or heavy wallpaper. The scope of application of this type of mixture is wide; it can be used on plasterboard, brick, foam concrete and aerated concrete bases. It perfectly bonds plaster and porous types of concrete.

Do not use deep-penetrating primer on substrates with low ability to absorb moisture and on materials with grease or bitumen stains.

Choosing the right mixture for a beginner is difficult. So, deep penetration primer, which is better? If you are using finishing paint or decorative plaster, buy a primer from the same manufacturer. They will interact perfectly with each other. If this is not possible, purchase products from the most reputable and reliable manufacturers.

For wet areas

Increased humidity is observed in the bathroom and kitchen. Bathroom primer must have water-repellent and anti-fungal properties. It should create a thin waterproofing layer on the surface of the walls, which will prevent moisture from penetrating into the base. Prime surfaces in the bathroom you need two or three layers. The first layer forms water-insoluble seals and prevents moisture penetration. The second layer creates an elastic waterproof film.

Deep penetration antifungal primer is used for porous and weak surfaces susceptible to destruction.

Before laying tiles

The choice of type of material depends on the humidity of the room, because tiles are most often installed in bathrooms and kitchens. It is also necessary to take into account the material from which the main surface is made. Priming the walls in front can be carried out with one of two types of mixtures:

  • Deep penetration - to strengthen the base and increase adhesion to the glue. It should be used for porous surfaces.
  • A primer for non-absorbent surfaces makes surfaces that are too smooth rougher and thus increases adhesion.

Most good reviews We collected primers from the company from experts and craftsmen professionally involved in repairs Knauf.

  • 10 liters of deep penetration mixture costs an average of 400-500 rubles.
  • 10 liters of anti-fungal can be bought for 550-650 rubles.

Peeling wallpaper, cracked paint or plaster, falling tiles - all these are problems that those who decide to save money and refuse to prime their walls may encounter. The procedure for applying primer will not take much time and will not hurt your pocket, but it will provide better adhesion to the wall surface, and in some cases even save the consumption of materials for the finishing coating. Not so long ago, the primer mixture was prepared by diluting the glue with water, but now many ready-made products have appeared on the market, allowing you to select the optimal composition for any type of surface, finishing material and room conditions, for example, KNAUF primers. We will determine which primer to choose for walls in each specific case, and how not to make a mistake when purchasing.

No. 1. What is a primer used for?

This question is asked by everyone who is engaged in repairs, doubting whether soil is even necessary. So why do you need a primer and what does it consist of? The composition of primer mixtures includes film-forming polymer materials (resins, oils, adhesives), pigments, drying accelerators and various kinds additives to give necessary qualities. Primers do not have decorative properties; they are used under, but if necessary they can be tinted to simplify the process of applying cladding.

Primers are available in the form of compositions or powders ready for application to the wall, which must be prepared according to the instructions. The composition may vary significantly depending on the surface for which the primer is intended and what conditions will be in the room where it is used. Regardless of composition The functions of the primer remain unchanged:


Manufacturers today offer a huge variety of compounds that can confuse an unprepared person and force them to buy, out of desperation, a material that is not quite suitable. To decide which primer is best to choose, you should clearly understand What surface will the composition be applied to?, consider room features And type of future finishing material. On sale you can find special compositions for metal, wood, or for places with high humidity. It is worth paying attention to the information provided by the manufacturer, but it is better when you can double-check it, knowing the features of a particular composition, so it is worth studying the properties of the main types of primers before purchasing.

No. 2. Types of primers for walls by composition

Depending on the characteristics of the composition, the following are distinguished: main types of primers:

  • acrylic primer– most universal composition, which can be used to cover wood, chipboard, brick, old and new. Acrylic primer can be used to treat porous substrates, is odorless, dries quickly (about 5 hours), and forms a “breathable” surface. The only negative is that it is not suitable for priming metal surfaces;
  • alkyd primer– ideal for processing wooden surfaces , which under the influence of such a primer acquire a slightly swollen structure, due to which excellent adhesion with any finishing materials: from wallpaper and painting to cement-sand coatings. One layer of this primer takes about 15 hours to dry. Substances that prevent the development of corrosion and mold may be added to the composition;
  • glypthal primer- one of the few compounds that can be processed metal surfaces. It is also sometimes used to apply to. The primer dries within 24 hours, but has a limitation - it is only suitable for relatively dry rooms, since with constant exposure high humidity loses its properties;
  • perchlorovinyl primer- a universal composition that can be used to process wood, brick, plaster and even metal. Dries quickly, even in summer high temperatures one layer dries in 1 hour. This primer is not used inside residential premises due to its toxicity, but for external work she may come;
  • polyvinyl acetate primer consists of polyvinyl acetate dispersion and latex, can be applied to any surface and is used only as a base under polyvinyl acetate paint. Dries quickly, up to 30 minutes;
  • phenolic primer used as the first layer when processing metal and wooden structures. The composition dries up to 15 hours, is used for carrying out only;
  • polystyrene primer also cannot be used for interior work, plastered and wooden surfaces are treated with it;
  • aluminum plasters, as a rule, are used to treat wooden surfaces and can additionally protect them from fungal attack;
  • epoxy primers Suitable for processing metal and concrete. They protect metal from corrosion, and allow concrete to better adhere to the finish;
  • shellac primers used to treat wooden surfaces and prevent the release of resins;
  • mineral primers produced on the basis of gypsum, lime and, used for surface treatment of concrete and brick walls. Such soil dries from 3 to 24 hours, which depends on the thickness of the layer and the nature of the surface material.

You can also find on sale universal primers. The very name of these compositions suggests that they can be used for application to any surface. They are used to carry out minor construction and repair work, when the required composition with specific qualities is not at hand, and also sometimes for treating surfaces consisting of different materials.

No. 3. Properties and purpose of the primer

Depending on the room in which the primer will be used, compositions with specific properties can be selected for surface treatment:

  • – an option for loose and insufficiently strong surfaces. The composition can perfectly strengthen such a wall and significantly reduce paint consumption. Often such compositions are used to impregnate a surface finished with plaster, but this does not prevent the use of a primer for application to drywall, brick, etc. If necessary reliable primer for wallpaper, especially for their heavy types, then you can safely opt for such compositions. It is not recommended to use a deep penetration primer to treat surfaces with poor ability to absorb moisture;
  • antiseptic primer for wet areas(bathroom and kitchen) contains special substances that prevent the appearance and development of fungus, has water-repellent properties and can even reduce the flammability of the base. Such compounds provide such high adhesion that the surface of the material and the finish adhere very tightly, and no microorganisms can penetrate into the joint. In the bathroom, it is recommended to apply three layers of primer;
  • anti-corrosion compounds indispensable when processing metal surfaces, prevents the formation of rust, increases service life;
  • adhesives and non-contact primers used when it is important to achieve the maximum level of adhesion to a smooth and completely non-absorbent surface (concrete, previously painted walls). They contain sand or needle quartz particles, which increase adhesion. Such primers can be used to treat the base before.

Manufacturers must indicate on the packaging what type of surface the primer is intended for, where it is recommended for use, and what the approximate material consumption will be for different types of surface. Experts advise that when choosing a primer, pay attention to the products of those manufacturers whose finishing materials you use - as a rule, the products of the same company go well together.

No. 4. The best primer manufacturers

It is unlikely that one can argue with the fact that a primer from a large eminent manufacturer has high quality. Buying a composition from a little-known company is always a risk: maybe you will be lucky and the material will meet your expectations, or maybe it will not have the declared properties or, even worse, it will ruin the surface. If you don’t want to risk the quality of the repair, it’s better to go straight to the product shelves in the store well-known primer manufacturers:

  • Ceresit– leader in terms of production building mixtures, has been around for over 100 years and has always relied on advanced technology, quality control and product range expansion. Due to the fact that today the company's factories are located in Russia, the cost of products has been reduced without loss of quality. The range includes a primer and a deep penetration primer-concentrate, a primer for absorbent mineral substrates, a primer for decorative plaster and a non-contact primer for treating smooth substrates;
  • Knauf is a German company that has existed since the 30s and has been represented on the domestic market since 1993. They pay great attention to innovation, continuous improvement and implementation of comprehensive solutions for repair work. The range includes deep penetration primers, universal compounds for absorbent substrates, primers for cement plaster;
  • Tikkurila is a Finnish company that has been operating since 1862. Factories are located in 7 countries around the world; they produce paints and other finishing and building materials. Primers are presented acrylic compounds, universal, moisture-proofing and adhesive compounds;
  • Caparol- a brand known throughout the world. The company's history began back in 1885 in Germany, and today its products are used in hundreds of countries. It produces primers for interior and exterior use, incl. frost-resistant and antiseptic compounds;
  • Weber is a company that is now part of the Saint-Gobain group and produces building mixtures under the Vetonit brand. The assortment includes primers for exterior and interior use; if necessary, they can be tinted;
  • IVSIL- a domestic company operating since 1997, has constantly developed and today has grown into a large manufacturer of building mixtures. Produces a universal primer and a deep penetration primer;
  • "Prospectors" is a domestic company founded in 1992. At first, only putties were produced here, then they began to organize the production of others mortars and mixtures, improved recipes, purchased raw materials from leading manufacturers, introduced innovations, and now it is one of the largest Russian manufacturers primers. The range includes universal compositions, primers for highly absorbent surfaces, and concrete-contact primers.

No. 5. How to apply primer?

The process of applying a primer is no more complicated than. Experts recommend treating the wall with a primer not only under the finishing material, but also before it (applying plaster or). Before applying primer under the facing layer, you must make sure that the surface is even, smooth and free of noticeable defects.

For work you will need the selected primer, bath and tools for applying the composition: for treating hard-to-reach places. Some people use a spray bottle, but its use is not always justified. The consumption of the composition depends on many factors and on average is 100-200 ml per 1 m2. The main surface is treated with a roller, corners and the most difficult places are primed with a brush. When the first layer has dried, begin to apply the second, if necessary (when the structure of the walls is fragile). After the primer has completely dried, you can proceed to finishing work.

Priming the walls is necessary so that the subsequently applied decorative coating could last as long as possible. That is, the primer provides the strongest possible adhesion between the main surface and finishing, increases the service life and quality of the coating. The emulsion, penetrating into unnoticeable recesses and filling them, saturates the entire surface to be treated.

The bulk of emulsions presented on the building materials market are a colloidal aqueous solution consisting of a polymer dispersion and various additives. After application to the surface, the priming emulsion fills the pores and microcracks, dries, and the polymer particles, bonding with each other, form a continuous, homogeneous film that allows steam and air to pass through, while remaining waterproof.

Benefits of priming

The primer composition does not absorb moisture from the freshly applied coating, giving it the opportunity to dry without the formation of cracks and peeling. This is especially important in cases where the decorative coating will be applied to highly absorbent surfaces, for example, aerated concrete, sand-lime brick and so on.

Plaster, putty and tile adhesive adhere better to a primed surface because the base becomes more sticky. In addition, some types of primers contain antifungal and antimicrobial additives that prevent the formation of mold.

Types and applications

There are several types of primer compositions:

  • anti-corrosion facade primer - used to prevent rust on metal. A special composition is used to process zinc;
  • to prevent the formation and development of mold and fungi, it is recommended to use a deep penetration antifungal primer;
  • An impregnating composition is used to strengthen the surface. It is intended for processing fragile coatings and drywall, as well as before laying ceramic tiles;
  • To protect the treated surface from moisture, a special primer or paint is used, which is applied immediately before finishing. These hydrophobic compounds can be purchased at building materials stores. It is worth noting that the primer compositions under consideration are used for both interior and exterior work. The choice of emulsion directly depends on the quality and material of the surface being treated. In this case, various facade primers are used, including acrylic and alkyd types;
  • To finish wooden surfaces from the outside, a special antiseptic deep penetration primer is used, which allows you to seal existing joints and cuts. When painting wood, experts recommend using an alkyd-oil composition of façade primer. This is because the oil is quite elastic and has excellent penetrating ability.

Components

Deep penetration primer for facades is a mixture of water and polymer resins. Facade primer emulsion has deep penetration into porous and loose materials, easily filling all voids. After the water evaporates, the composition begins to polymerize.

The primer composition should be selected taking into account the type of surface to which it will be applied. Before priming, as well as before painting, it is necessary to first clean the surface to be treated from dirt and dust, and then dry it.

Metal parts of the facade should be cleaned of rust. The primer or paint is applied with a brush, roller or spray gun. The main thing is that the applied layer is completely dry.

For priming concrete surfaces, experts recommend using a special composition - concrete contact. This primer composition is used for treating dense bases that do not absorb moisture, before direct plastering or puttying.

Concrete contact contains fine concrete, which results in high adhesion of finishing materials to smooth surfaces. Concrete contact is used for external and internal work at a temperature not lower than +5˚C. If, for example, you need to install ceiling tiles, on a whitewashed surface, then such treatment will significantly increase the chances that the material will adhere firmly.

Universal primer compositions are suitable for treating highly absorbent surfaces. Such surfaces include plasterboard, brick, cement strainer, aerated concrete, plaster and the like. A universal, deep-penetrating primer increases adhesion, reduces paint consumption, strengthens weak surfaces and prevents wallpaper from coming off the walls.

After the installation of plasterboard sheets has been completed, the surface must be primed before puttying, especially in the cutting areas. The consumption of priming emulsion is insignificant, but the benefits are undoubted, since the surface of the drywall becomes more durable and adhesive.

For priming, you should choose a tool based on the type of surface. If you need to treat large areas (ceiling, walls or floor), you can use a paint brush with medium bristles, and in hard-to-reach places or corners, as a rule, use a brush up to 100 mm.

Deep penetration primer “Prospectors”

The smallest particles in the soil emulsion can penetrate into the smallest pores of the surface, which makes it possible to perfectly strengthen loose and weak walls. Suitable for processing brick, wood, plaster, aerated concrete, concrete and plaster. Depending on the absorbency of the treated surface, the depth of soil penetration can be 1-5 mm. The consumption of deep penetration primer “Starateli” is 1 l/5 m². The emulsion is packaged in containers of 5 and 10 liters.

Deep penetration primer Knauf Tiefengrund

This is a ready-to-use colorless emulsion for treating walls for wallpapering, bathroom bases, brickwork and for preparation for the installation of self-leveling floors. The composition penetrates deeply into the surface, is non-flammable, allows water vapor to pass through, and binds dust. The consumption of soil emulsion is 70-100 ml/m². This is a universal deep penetration primer, which is packaged in a 10-liter container and can be used for both exterior and interior work.

Ceresit CT17 deep penetration

This primer emulsion is designed to improve surface strength, quality, adhesion and uniform application. Antifungal primer Ceresit CT17 is used for treating walls, aerated concrete bases, gypsum plasters, concrete floors and so on. Available in 10 liter containers and has a consumption of 100-200 ml/m² with a single application.

Eunice deep penetration primer

This brand of primer is preferable for working with old, crumbling surfaces. Ideal for processing before puttying, plastering, applying tile adhesive, and installing self-leveling floors. Eunice deep penetration primer is intended for external and internal work, as well as for surface treatment in the absence of heating and in conditions of high humidity. Often this criterion is taken into account when purchasing Eunice primer.

Deep penetration primer Optimist

The Optimist primer mixture is non-toxic, practically odorless, fire and explosion-proof, and is an environmentally friendly material. The primer contains water, antiseptics, acrylic latex and functional additives. The primer is sold packaged in 1-liter bottles and 5 and 10 liter canisters. The primer consumption for a single application is about 250 ml/m².

Deep penetration primer Rusean

The deep penetration primer composition Rusean is an environmentally friendly aqueous dispersion of polymers with special additives and is intended for treating plastered surfaces, brick, concrete, aerated concrete and gypsum bases. The primer has antiseptic properties that prevent the formation of fungus and mold. With a penetration depth of 1-5 mm, the emulsion consumption is 100-200 ml/m², depending on the absorbency of the surface.

Bolars deep penetration soil

The primer is made on the basis of acrylic, which allows you to obtain high strength and durability of the coating, as well as reduce paint consumption. Bolars primer regulates water absorption, increases adhesion and abrasion resistance, and allows walls to breathe. Apply to brick, concrete and aerated concrete surfaces, as well as drywall. Can be used for both external and internal work. Primer consumption is 80 ml/m².

Application and consumption of primer composition

Facade priming emulsion or paint is applied only after leveling work surface, for which they use rough skin. The primer should be applied evenly, and be sure to ensure that it does not get into your eyes. After work, you should wash and clean the tool thoroughly. The remaining primer, only if it is not a concentrate, can be poured back into the container.

To obtain greater effect, the primer composition is applied in two or more layers. Drying on average lasts 1-4 hours, while the ambient temperature should not be lower than +20˚C.

The consumption of some types of soil is:

  • deep penetration emulsions - 100 ml/m²;
  • concrete contact - 350 ml/m²;
  • decorative primer - 200 ml/m²;
  • special compositions for walls - 50-100 ml/m².

In principle, primer consumption depends on the surface material, its characteristics and the manufacturer of the mixture. In addition, all the main characteristics, consumption, drying time, and so on must be indicated on the container of soil compositions.

Please watch a video briefly explaining what a primer is and why it is needed.

Not a single stage of construction or repair work on porous or old substrates should be completed without a primer. It is designed to ensure good adhesion, strengthen the base, regulate absorbency and increase the service life of the finish as a whole. So, deep penetration primer - which is better? We'll figure out.

Deep penetration primer for walls - a multi-component composition, including:

  1. Water, which occupies the main share in the composition. Used to dilute the soil and bring it to the desired consistency.
  2. Acrylic resins acting as the main binder;
  3. Polymer components responsible for the penetration of liquid as deep as possible into the base.

A good deep penetration primer optionally contains:

  1. antiseptic additives necessary to protect the surface from the risk of mold;
  2. silicone agents characterized by the ability to repel water;
  3. latex designed to improve adhesion of the treated substrate and subsequent finishing.

If it contains auxiliary additives, the deeply penetrating primer becomes universal.

Application of deep penetration primers

The scope of application of the primer is excessively absorbent and porous substrates (concrete, plastered and plastered surfaces, drywall, gypsum, etc.), including old and crumbling surfaces.

Due to availability acrylic resins Penetrating primer perfectly saturates the surface and penetrates into the deeper layers. Thanks to polymer additives, the soil, as if through capillaries, enters the very thickness of the plane, binding the surface into a monolithic and reliable base.

The process of water absorption (evaporation) is accompanied by the convergence of resin granules, as a result of which they stick together into thread-like formations that penetrate the surface.



Specifications

The deep penetration primer, the characteristics of which are presented below, differs slightly in composition.

That is, manufacturers can use some components in different concentrations to enhance or reduce the effect of a particular property. However, most soils have fairly similar parameters:

It is worth noting that deep penetration primer, the average consumption of which is 150 g/m2, can be consumed at 400 g/m2. It all depends on the absorbency of the base. Its color varies from light white to colorless with yellowness.

Application is carried out in several layers, at intervals of at least an hour. To be sure that the soil is dry, it is necessary to soak the base for 24 hours and only then proceed with subsequent finishing.



Advantages of soil

A deep penetration primer, the characteristics of which indicate its versatility, is endowed with a number of advantages. The main one is the unique ability to penetrate into the deepest layers of the surface.

Thus, even an old and loose base can be turned into an excellent base for the most modern finishes, without fear for the durability of the latter.

Making its way deep into the base, a deep penetration primer for walls strengthens and strengthens them, which allows them to increase their service life.

Sufficient vapor permeability of the soil turns the surface into a breathable one, promoting air exchange. And the presence of fungicidal additives reduces the likelihood of fungus formation to almost zero.

A deeply penetrating primer, providing air exchange, isolates intracavity pores using silicone. That is, the base also becomes waterproof. The overall wear resistance of the layer to both mechanical and chemical influences also increases.

Thanks to its ability to level out the porosity of the base, penetrating primer significantly reduces the consumption of decorative finishing materials, in particular plaster, putty or paint.

The work is not accompanied by toxic odors. It is very easy to apply the composition. Also good primer deep penetration is not only non-toxic, but also non-explosive.


Comparison of soils from different manufacturers

Today, penetrating soil is produced on behalf of many domestic and foreign manufacturers. About which compositions are more universal specifications, the next one will tell comparative analysis presented in the table.

Manufacturer Henkel Bautechnik Optimist Lakra Synthesis Knauf Bolars Axton UNIS
Priming Ceresit ST 17Optimist G 103LakraKnauf TiefengrundBolarsAxtonUNIS
Penetration ability 3-5 mm1-5 mmup to 5 mm5 mmup to 3 mmup to 3 mmup to 7 mm
Surface to be processed Plaster,

cement, wood, concrete,

Drywall

Drywall, concrete brick, woodPlaster,

drywall,

concrete, cement

Brick

Plaster,

Drywall

Gypsum, plaster, brick, cement, wood, concreteCement,

plaster,

Concrete, wood

Gypsum,

foam concrete,

Plaster

Consumption, g/m2 100-200 g/m2100-250 g/m250-100 g/m270-100 g/m280-100 g/m2100-120 g/m2150-180 g/m2
Drying time 4-6 hours2 hours3 hours3 hours1-2 hours2 hours30-40 minutes
Price for 10 l 550-800 rub.350-650 rub.450-650 rub.600-900 rub.500-600 rub.550-650 rub.300-500 rub.

Which deep penetration primers are better is unmistakably demonstrated by the penetrating ability of the compositions. The higher this indicator, the better the surface will be strengthened and its absorbent properties will be regulated.

This is especially important for extremely absorbent substrates. For moderately absorbent soils, it is enough to purchase soil with a penetrating ability of 3-5 mm.

Available from different brands, deep penetration primers have approximately the same consumption, so basing the choice on this value is irrational. It is worth remembering that it is the porosity and type of base that play a decisive role in soil consumption.

The purpose of the composition, its components and the reputation of the manufacturer are several more criteria according to which the soil should be selected. Finding out what a deep penetration primer is and which one is better, you can come to a certain conclusion - one that, along with excellent penetrating parameters, will create a protective water-repellent layer, level the surface and increase its adhesion.

Deep penetration primer - which is better, video

In order for wallpaper to look impressive and stay securely on the wall, two conditions are necessary - maximum smoothness of the surface and its high adhesion to finishing material. Therefore, before you begin wallpapering, you must carry out preparatory work, which usually includes five stages: choosing a material, cleaning the walls of old coatings, treating surfaces with special antiseptic compounds, then repairing identified defects, bringing them to perfect evenness with putty and primer treatment .

Primers for walls under wallpaper are made on the basis of different materials. Therefore, in order not to make a mistake with the choice of composition, you need to familiarize yourself with their characteristics in advance.

What is a primer?

A primer or, as this composition is sometimes called, a primer, is essentially an auxiliary material, but it is it that ensures the success of finishing work, including

The composition is a homogeneous liquid or thick, odorless suspension. It can be transparent or have one or another shade (most often milky), produced in a ready-made form or requiring dilution with water in a concentrated form. After absorption and drying, the composition forms a transparent film on the surface. The primer may contain organic resins and adhesives, film-forming components made on different bases - silicate, acrylic, silicone, latex and other copolymers. In addition, the solution is usually supplemented with various additives and fillers that increase the effectiveness of the material and simplify its work. The primer is also commercially available in the form of a dry powder.

Typically, primers are packaged in plastic buckets or bottles. The manufacturer must include information on the packaging about the following parameters:

  • proportions and method of dilution of the composition;
  • solution consumption per 1 sq. m.;
  • method of applying material to surfaces;
  • drying time of the applied solution;
  • warranty shelf life;
  • date of manufacture.

The primer must have the following properties:

  • Large depth of penetration into the treated surface.
  • The ability to increase the adhesion of materials.
  • Strengthening properties surface structure material.
  • Antiseptic qualities - the ability to make the surface resistant to the appearance and development of various forms of microflora - fungus, mold, etc.
  • A fairly short period of complete absorption and drying.

When choosing a primer composition, you need to take into account the application conditions that affect the effectiveness of the treatment:

  • The material of the surface to be treated is plaster, plasterboard, wood, brick or concrete, etc.
  • Humidity of the room where the primer will be applied;
  • The type of decorative finish for which the wall surface is treated with a primer - liquid or regular wallpaper;
  • The density of the wallpaper selected for the sticker.

Why is a primer needed?

Thanks to its specific properties, the primer solution is able to tidy up the surface of the walls and create a reliable basis for applying the adhesive composition:

  • Deep penetration of the primer into the structural structure of the wall material helps fill micropores and cracks, binds dust residues, thereby strengthening the surface.
  • Antiseptic additives disinfect the wall material and make it resistant to biologically aggressive environments.

Wallpaper cannot be pasted on such walls! The surface must be “treated” and protected from further development microflora antiseptic primer
  • The primer provides excellent adhesion of wallpaper glue to the wall and finishing material, preventing peeling of wallpaper at corners and joints.
  • The film formed on the surface prevents wallpaper glue from being actively absorbed into it, which significantly reduces its consumption.
  • The primer significantly evens out the tone of the wall, which is very important when gluing light-colored wallpaper.
  • The solution is able to mask small imperfections on surfaces and make them smooth, which simplifies and speeds up the installation of wallpaper.
  • After coating with a primer, the surfaces remain “breathable”, that is, capable of allowing vapor to pass through - this is extremely important for creating a favorable microclimate in the apartment.

Main types of primers

All existing primers can be divided into three categories - by solubility, by the material on which they are made, and also by purpose.

Based on the type of solubility, primers are divided into:

  • Organic solvent-based primers made from alkyd resins (glyphthalic), polyurethane and latex.
  • Water-soluble primers, deep penetration. These include acrylic, latex, silicate and silicone compounds.
  • Mineral materials produced on the basis of lime, gypsum and cement.
Type of primerPurpose of material for application to surfacesDrying time (hour)
AlkydMetal, concrete, reinforced concrete and wooden surfaces10 ÷ 14
AcrylicPlaster, wood, chipboard, fiberboard, brick.2 ÷ 4
PolyurethaneAbsorbent and non-absorbent, including heavily dusty24
SiliconeConcrete, plaster, lime-sand4 ÷ 5
LatexPlaster, plasterboard, brick, wood, concrete and aerated concrete, as well as other porous surfaces.1 ÷ 2
SilicateLimestone, concrete, mineral, etc. Cannot be applied to gypsum-containing substrates.24
MineralPlaster, concrete, brick.24

High-quality wall preparation will be ensured if all materials for it are manufactured by one manufacturer. They, having good compatibility, with each other, will give an excellent final result.

Classification by purpose of primer mixtures:

  • universal water-based;
  • specialized - anti-corrosion and antibacterial;
  • deep penetration - up to 10÷15 mm;
  • antifungal;
  • insulating;
  • concrete contact.

To cover walls for wallpapering, the following primers are most often used, sold in finished form or requiring dilution:

  • universal;
  • latex;
  • acrylic;
  • alkyd;
  • wallpaper adhesives.

Selecting a primer based on consistency

The primer can also be divided into covering or deep, that is, according to its property, it remains on the surface of the wall, creating a film and leveling out flaws, or it penetrates deep into the structure and strengthens it. Therefore, it is worth understanding what is the best consistency to choose a primer - how it will work will directly depend on this property.

Primers are produced in the form of a liquid, transparent and thick white solution. Each of them has a specific purpose, its own advantages and disadvantages.

  • Deep penetration liquid solutions are designed to strengthen the outer layer of the wall and bind dust. Some of these primers contain special substances that can extinguish alkalis.

TO positive qualities liquid primers can be attributed to their affordable price and ability to penetrate into the wall structure 25% deeper than thick ones can do.

The negative qualities of such solutions are their transparency and possible uneven application, since it is difficult to apply layers without overlapping. As a result, the surface will have glossy and matte areas, which means that they will differ slightly in adhesive ability.

  • Thick white primers are designed not only to strengthen the surface of the wall and bind dust - they can cover small imperfections in the wall, creating a smooth surface. Some of these primers also contain antiseptic and alkali-killing additives.

The positive properties of thick primers include their ability to fill surface micropores with the formation of a white substrate underneath. decorative finishing. In addition, the composition can even out the heterogeneity of the porous surface, bringing it to ideal smoothness.

The only negative aspects of using a thick primer include its significantly lower penetrating ability compared to a liquid one.

From the above, we can conclude that, no matter what composition the primer is purchased, it is better to choose its thick version, as it creates ideal conditions for gluing wallpaper.

Experienced craftsmen most often use both options - the first layer is a deep-penetrating liquid primer, and the second is a thick primer, which brings the surface to perfection.

How do different types of primers work?

To make the right choice, you need to know how they work different types primers when applying them to the surface of walls.

This type of primer is made using polymer binders based on styrene-acrylate dispersion. Acrylic primer is well suited for preparing interior surfaces for finishing work. The material does not produce sharp unpleasant odors, dries quickly enough and is suitable for application under any type of wallpaper.


At the same time, such a primer makes the work easier and gives the walls the qualities necessary for further finishing:

  • The hygroscopicity of the surface is reduced.
  • The appearance of new cracks is prevented.
  • The service life of the decorative coating increases.
  • The film formed by the soil can protect the surface from mechanical damage (this is especially important for drywall), and also make it resistant to temperature changes.
  • The consumption of adhesive composition is significantly reduced.

The concentrated composition is very easily diluted with water without loss of its qualities.

Acrylic primer, depending on its physical properties, can be divided into five types:

  • With the effect of deep penetration into the structure of the wall - it is usually used for “weak” and porous surfaces.
  • Adhesive, enhances adhesion decorative material with a base.

  • A universal composition used for any type of surface and giving it high moisture resistance. Used for interior work.
  • An impregnating primer that can level loose surfaces or smooth out small imperfections on them.
  • A special solution designed for a specific type of material.

Acrylic primer is usually applied in one or two layers, depending on the condition of the surface, using paint roller. Hard-to-reach places, such as corners and areas around radiators, are treated with a soft brush with artificial bristles.

The surface dries out two to four hours after applying the composition, after which it will be possible to proceed to wallpapering the walls.

The advantage of this type of primer is its versatility, since it is suitable for treating surfaces of any quality, even dilapidated ones.

If you plan to glue the wallpaper on a wall lined with plasterboard, the primer is applied twice - before covering it with putty and already on the putty surface. This way preliminary preparation the wall will not allow the future removal of wallpaper, when it is time to replace it, to remove it along with the cardboard layer of gypsum plasterboard, thereby preserving the surface unharmed.

From a wall treated with an acrylic primer, old wallpaper will easily come off after treatment. warm water or a special agent without damaging the putty layer.

The consumption of acrylic primer may vary - it depends on component composition, wall construction material, surface quality, porosity, etc. On average, consumption ranges from 150 to 250 grams per square meter.

Latex is natural component, obtained from the sap of the rubber tree. It has the qualities necessary for finishing materials, such as waterproofness, elasticity, strength, and good resistance to stretching and compression.

Natural material is quite expensive, and today in building materials A synthetic substance is used that has the properties of natural latex. It is also used in the production of latex primers. This type of primer is most often an opaque liquid substance, which, when dried, creates a thin film on the surface of the wall, ensuring good adhesion of the wall to decorative materials.


Latex primer applies evenly to surfaces and dries quickly, but has a lower adhesive ability compared to acrylic material. The primer is used to strengthen loose and crumbling wall surfaces - drywall or old plaster, and helps improve their waterproofing qualities.

Latex primer - perfect solution for loose surfaces

Latex primer works well on wood and fiberboards, all types of concrete and a natural stone and is excellent for damp rooms, as it creates conditions for surfaces to withstand dampness.

Prices for acrylic latex Tury

Tury Latex acrylic

The average consumption of this material is 350÷500 grams per square meter.

Alkyd primer

The alkyd type of primer has the properties of paint, forming a film on surfaces of various types. This composition fits perfectly on wooden and concrete surfaces, filling the pores of the upper layer of the material structure. This prevents wood from swelling and moisture from penetrating into concrete walls.

Alkyd primers make surfaces moisture-resistant and resistant to mold or mildew colonies. Often this type of material is used as a base for a second latex or acrylic primer layer or for acrylic-based paint.

Alkyd compositions do not have the qualities of deep penetration into wall materials, but they perfectly prepare surfaces for further processing. They are often used to coat reinforced concrete structures - making them more susceptible to finishing decorative materials. In addition, the primer perfectly blocks rust from metal inclusions that may be in concrete slabs. Over time, rust can appear through the pasted wallpaper and ruin the entire appearance decorative finishing.

Can't secure alkyd primers plastered, gypsum or, so this must be taken into account when purchasing this material.

Alkyd primers are produced in metal and plastic packaging, ready for use. The material is applied in one or two layers with a roller and brush, the layer thickness can be 1÷2 mm.

If it is necessary to dilute the thickened primer, use xylene or white spirit.

The alkyd primer consumption is 100÷150 grams per square meter. Complete drying of this material usually occurs 24 hours after its application at a temperature of at least 20 degrees.

It should be noted that this material has a very affordable price compared to other primers. You can use such a primer under wallpaper only as a last resort, and it is better to use primers made on other bases, which will strengthen the surface of the walls and create higher adhesive qualities of the surface.

Universal primer

This type of primer is suitable for strengthening all types of surfaces, including dilapidated and crumbling ones. The universal primer is based on acrylic copolymers with the addition of resins that enhance the quality of the material. This primer is diluted with water and has the property of deep penetration into the structure of the materials being processed, making them moisture-resistant and adhesive to any finishing materials.


The best choice is universal primers

The universal primer is suitable for treating walls both outside and inside the room, increasing their resistance to various types of influences and increasing the service life of the decorative coating.

This primer is well applied to foam and aerated concrete walls, plasterboard sheets, reinforced concrete structures and other surfaces.

This composition is also applied in one or two layers, and its consumption is minimal and amounts to only 100÷120 grams per square meter of area.

Priming with wallpaper glue

Some craftsmen believe that before wallpapering it is enough to treat the wall with casein-based wallpaper glue. Of course, you can use it, but such a treatment, which does not have the properties of a primer, will not be able to solve the problems of strengthening the surface, increasing its moisture resistance, acquiring antiseptic qualities and smoothing out small flaws.


Priming with glue does not require any special skill - just dilute the adhesive composition correctly, according to the instructions, wait until it sits, and then apply it to the surface of the walls using a roller. In order for the wallpaper to stick well, you need to wait about a day, and only then start gluing decorative canvases.

You can use other wallpaper adhesives to cover walls. In some of them, the instructions even provide recommendations for maintaining proportions when mixing it with water for priming surfaces.

If you decide to use this particular option to prepare the walls, then when choosing an adhesive you should pay attention to the instructions for use. It should indicate that the composition can be used as a primer. If there is no such clarification, then it is better to abandon this idea, since such processing can negatively affect the decorative material. In this case, formulations on a different basis should be considered.

The average consumption of wallpaper glue for priming walls will be 70÷100 grams per square meter.

PVA glue as a primer

PVA is universal glue, and it is used for many needs, including construction work. It has been used as a primer since Soviet times, since back then it was simply impossible to find a real primer composition on sale. The glue is a dense emulsion white, produced on a polyvinyl acetate base, it is non-toxic and has no unpleasant odor.


When making a primer for wallpaper from it, chalk, gypsum, drying oil or alabaster are often added to the composition - these components are designed to increase the strength of the primer and help fill and smooth porous surfaces.

Making a primer from PVA glue can be called an economical way, but this composition has one serious drawback that can seriously spoil the appearance of the decorative coating. The fact is that over time it tends to change color from white to yellow. This yellowness may appear through light colors thin wallpaper stains, and then you will have to completely change the entire finish.

PVA glue is diluted with water in proportions 1:2 to the consistency of liquid kefir. This process must be carried out in a warm room and with active stirring.

The primer needs to be prepared in small portions, otherwise it quickly loses its adhesive qualities. After the finished primer has been produced, the next portion is made.

Many people are attracted to using PVA as a primer because of its affordable price, ease of production of the composition and environmental friendliness of the material. But if high-quality expensive wallpaper is used for finishing, then it is better not to risk it and use professional primer solutions.

Prices for different types of primer

Primer

How to properly prepare walls for wallpaper

Before applying the primer, it is necessary to carry out the walls preparatory work. So, if there is still old wallpaper on the walls, you need to start by removing it.

Removing old wallpaper

There are several ways to remove old wallpaper from a wall:

  • Using a spatula, use it to pry up dry wallpaper and tear it off in small pieces. This method is the most unsuccessful, since the work will take too long, and part of the plaster or putty applied to the wall may separate along with the paper.

Removing wallpaper “dry” is a long and tedious task
  • The second option is to wet all covered surfaces with very warm water several times. In this case, the wallpaper will move away from the wall and be removed from it much easier. But it will take at least one day to really saturate all surfaces in the room with water.

  • The third option is to expose the finishing material to hot, moist air. An iron with a steam function or a special tool used by builders is quite suitable for this.

However, because of one repair, probably no one will spend money on such a device, so some companies offer services for performing such work. Their implementation today costs approximately from 35 to 60 rubles per square meter of area. The price depends on the difficulty level of removing the old coating.

  • Fourth, most best option- This means purchasing a special wallpaper remover.

Today, several companies offer such products. The method and proportions for diluting the composition can be found on the packaging, and such a bottle will be quite enough for a large room.

Usually the solution is diluted in a bucket, then it is poured into a spray bottle and sprayed on all the walls from which the old decorative coating needs to be removed. The time that you need to wait after finishing applying the composition is also indicated in the instructions.

After this period, you can proceed to removing the wallpaper. For this you will also need a spatula, but not to scrape dried paper off the wall, but simply to pick up the corner of each of the canvases. The wallpaper will easily separate from the surface in one piece.

First coat of primer

After removing the old decorative material, there will definitely be flaws underneath that need to be eliminated. If the depressions and cracks are large, they may have to be widened and sealed with putty, and if the defects are widely scattered throughout the wall, it will have to be completely plastered. However, before applying repair compounds either to identified defects or to the entire wall, they must be treated with a deep penetration primer.


The work is carried out using a roller, which is dipped into a primer compound poured into a special bath. The solution is carefully applied to the surface, starting from the bottom of the wall and gradually rising up to the ceiling. Using this technique, you can significantly save on primer, since if you start applying from the ceiling, then most of the liquid collected with a roller will end up on the floor.

Tidying up the surface of the walls

After the surface is primed and dried, all cracks, “sinks” and recesses are sealed using a spatula. If necessary, the entire surface is plastered.


Leveling the wall with plaster

Sometimes the surface defects are too large to limit oneself to minor repairs or applying a thin layer of putty. How to do it correctly is in a separate publication on our portal.

If only minor repairs to individual sections of the wall are sufficient, and it is possible to do without plastering the entire surface, proceed to puttying work. The main task is to make the surface for wallpapering as even and smooth as possible.

Prices for mixtures for leveling walls and ceilings

Mixtures for leveling walls and ceilings

Priming prepared surfaces before wallpapering

  • When the putty smooth walls are well dried, proceed to priming them for gluing the decorative coating.
  • For work, again prepare a roller with a long handle and a “coat” of velor, short pile or foam rubber, as well as a tray tray into which the primer composition will be poured.
  • If it is necessary to dilute the solution to the desired consistency, this is done in a plastic bucket, from which it is convenient to pour it in portions into a tray, approximately 0.5 ÷ 0.7 liters each.

  • The roller is dipped into the liquid, then the excess must be squeezed out of the roller on the corrugated surface of the bath to prevent unnecessary loss of material. Then you can proceed to applying the composition to the walls. As mentioned above, the process is carried out from the bottom up.
  • Large surfaces of walls are processed in this way.
  • Next, take a brush, preferably with artificial soft bristles, and use it to treat all hard-to-reach places - corners, the area under windows, near pipes and heating radiators.
  • It is very important to cover the entire surface with primer, without skipping individual areas, otherwise the wallpaper will pull away from the wall in these places.
  • If necessary, the surfaces are covered with another layer of primer solution, after the first one has completely dried.
  • After finishing the priming work, the walls need to be thoroughly dried at room temperature for 24 hours. In the characteristics of some primers, the drying time is specified at 2 ÷ 4 hours, but still, in order to avoid creating unexpected problems with the finishing material, it is recommended to postpone wallpapering for 24 hours.
  • After this time, experts advise carrying out another test, which will help to obtain a high-quality and durable decorative coating. Wallpaper should be glued to a well-dried wall surface. To find out the degree of their drying, take a piece of dense polyethylene film measuring approximately 100×100 or 150×150 mm and glue it tightly to the wall using pieces masking tape. A hermetically sealed space should form under the film, and the film remains in this position until the morning. If in the morning it turns out to be dry inside, you can safely move on to wallpapering. If condensation has formed under the film, then you should wait some more time and allow the walls to dry completely.

So, the process of applying the primer itself is quite simple. The main thing is to make the right choice of materials, and, relying on the developed technologies, to carry out all the preparatory work. Only in this case will the primer be effective, and the wallpaper will lie perfectly on the surface of the walls and will not peel off over time.

Video: tips on the correct selection and use of wallpaper primer

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