How to choose and apply a primer on wood

Types and characteristics of materials

Wood care products are constantly being improved, and today there is a considerable range of primers.

Types of primers and scope of application:

Water-based products.

The mixtures dissolve and protect the material from biological corrosion.

Waterproof primers.

Used to protect against moisture. They are usually used for outdoor work.

Oil.

This type is suitable for already painted wood or as an impregnation when one coat is applied.

Acrylic.

Acrylic based primer

This option is used before coating with acrylic paints. It is applied in two or three coats under the paint, although varnish can also be applied on top.

Alkyd.

Ideal for untreated wood. The tool evens out the surface for further finishing. They are also pigmented. Such mixtures create on the basis a matte high-density film, enhance the shade of the paint. Alkyd primers dry in 12-16 hours.

Shellac.

Designed to neutralize coniferous resin protruding upward or used as insulation for soluble stains.

Resin

Polyurethane or epoxy.

These products are no longer exactly primers, but also not paints. They are paint thinned with solvent.

Criteria for a profitable choice

To prevent the applied varnish or paint from peeling off after a couple of days, choose and use the right primer. The following are the criteria by which primers are selected.

Colorless primer

Use a clear product. A transparent primer will allow you to emphasize all the beauty of the wood texture and will not limit the decorative possibilities. The formed film "smoothes" the wood pile, which eliminates the need for sanding.

Among the transparent mixtures, there are rosin-casein and nitrocellulose, which protect against fungus and mold due to a number of useful components: pigments, adhesives, oils, resins, etc.

Any primer should contain an antiseptic to protect the coating from insect encroachments.

Acrylic primer will probably be the best choice due to its versatility. This primer has no unpleasant odor, the composition dries quickly and is diluted with warm water. This primer is eco-friendly, which allows it to be used in any premises, even in children's rooms.

Views

In the modern building materials market, there is a huge assortment of soils that differ in some features. The general classification of primers for wood is as follows:

• Application area. For outdoor or indoor use.
• The depth of penetration into the structure of the tree. There are conventional film compositions and deep ones.
• The basis of the composition: polyurethane, water-based, alkyd, oil, casein.
• Consistency. Liquid impregnations or thick mastics.
• Mix color. The most common option is a clear primer.
• Main functions. Almost all primers are universal. In this case, it matters what this or that composition is most directed to: protection from moisture, preventing the appearance of fungus and mold, fire retardant function, etc.

All primers can be classified according to two criteria: composition and function. In terms of composition, the following types of primers are distinguished:

• Acrylic. They differ in their penetrating properties. The mixture is almost completely absorbed into the wood structure. Suitable for any type of paint and varnish material.The primer does not have an unpleasant odor and dries quickly (from one to four hours). White acrylic primer is excellent for surface treatment prior to plastering, decorative coatings and painting.
• Alkyd. The composition of the mixture is similar to the composition of alkyd paints. Available as a colorless and pigmented primer of this type. The mixture is applied before painting with alkyd enamels. Can be used as a release layer before painting an already painted surface. Drying time can be up to eighteen hours.
• Shellac. Well suited for coniferous trees, as they prevent the release of resins and neutralize their effect.

• Epoxy and polyurethane. Used before surface treatment with paints and varnishes.
• Silicone acrylic. They are water-repellent. Stabilize the moisture level of wood and protect the surface from moisture.
• Oil. They are used before applying a new layer of paint to an already painted surface.
• Construction. After processing the wood, such a primer creates a protective film on the surface. The film prevents the processes of decay and destruction of wood.
• Drying oil. It is used for both exterior and interior work as a primer for oil paints. The drying oil protects the wood from moisture and prevents decay.
• Polyvinyl acetate. A special primer that is used before the application of polyvinyl acetate paint. The mixture contains latex and PVA, which improves adhesion. Drying time is usually thirty minutes.
• Liquid glass. A mixture of water glass is used to impart hydrophobic properties to wood.

The composition of soil mixtures may include special additives that improve certain functional properties of the impregnation. By functional purpose, the following primer mixtures are distinguished:

• Antiseptic. It prevents the formation and spread of mold and mildew, and also kills the existing harmful microorganisms in the wood. Suitable for impregnating wooden structures that are used in rooms with high humidity or outdoors.
• Water repellent. They prevent the penetration of moisture into the structure of the tree.
• Strengthening. These mixtures penetrate deeply into the wood fibers and make the material more durable. The hardening primer is used not only for wood processing, but also for all porous materials. This mixture can be used to treat a foam surface.
• Varnishing. Varnishing mixtures not only prime the surface, but also form a durable layer of varnish on it. This material is perfect for wood flooring.

Wood floor painting

Wood is such a natural material that without special protection it can quickly deteriorate. It follows from this that the main function of a floor covering is to protect it from rot, high humidity, mildew and mildew. But even this may not be enough. The decor of the house, including the flooring, should be liked by the owners so that they will enjoy spending time in it.

There are many reasons for using paint:

• paint prevents the wood from absorbing moisture or drying out;
• painted floors are not exposed to mold or mildew, and this increases their service life;
• painted floors do not require additional maintenance - they are often just enough to wash;
• paint protects the material from temperature fluctuations;
• thanks to paints and varnishes, you can easily make a beautiful and unique pattern.

Classification of primers according to the quality of the base

According to the type of penetration into the bases, two groups of primers are distinguished: deep penetration and adhesive.

Deep penetration primers

Deep penetration primers are capable of impregnating a concrete slab by 5-7 cm, so they are most suitable for concrete with deep pores. Once in them, the primer clogs the voids, forming a durable and strong film on the surface. Due to their properties, deep penetration primers provide high adhesion, which is achieved thanks to the latex particles included in the mixture. Therefore, such building mixtures become a good basis for lime-gypsum, gypsum and lime-cement plaster.

Deep penetration mixtures can include:

• plasticizers;
• polymer additives;
• antiseptics;
• quartz;
• acrylic and latex.

Also, a penetrating primer is used for the reconstruction of screeds and walls, which previously (before the primers of this type appeared on the market) could not be repaired.

Healthy! It is better to apply deep penetration impregnations in several layers, the greater the thickness of such a primer, the stronger the concrete structure becomes.

Adhesive primers

Adhesive primers roughen the smooth surface with the silica sand included in the primer. This significantly increases the adhesive properties of the surface to be treated. The adhesive primer is suitable for gypsum, polymer and cement-sand putty mixtures, as well as for wall decoration with planed wood, tiles, plasterboard and gypsum fiber boards.

If the walls, floor and ceiling were previously covered with putty or paint, then it is recommended to use adhesives for such surfaces.

Types of primers by type of surface

As a rule, universal primers are used for all types of surfaces. A good result can be obtained by using specialized primers that are suitable for the surfaces to be treated.

Concrete floor primers

For priming concrete floors, it is necessary to use impregnating, deep-penetrating and adhesion compounds. The following primers will help to prepare the concrete floor for further finishing:

• acrylic - penetrating and adhesive;
• polyurethane - adhesive, dedusting, filling pores, protecting from chemical influences;
• epoxy - moisture-proof, resistant to mechanical and chemical influences;
• alkyd - deeply penetrating, abrasion resistant;
• polyvinyl acetate - used as a base for paint and PVA glue;

Wood primer

Primers for wood surfaces are deeply penetrating and strengthening. Applied before coating with paint or varnish. Penetrating into wood and strengthening it, they create a thin vapor-permeable film on the surface, which prevents destruction. Primers are used for wood:

• acrylic - deep penetrating and bonding fibers;
• alkyd - filling and protective composition;
• shellac - serves for processing raw coniferous wood, neutralizes the release of resin to the surface;
• oil (linseed oil) - impregnates wood, is used before painting or filling the base;
• glyphthalic - used for further processing with epoxy solutions;

Features of choosing a primer for a wooden floor

The main tasks of the wood primer are to close the porous structure and strengthen the fibers, which corresponds to a deep penetrating primer. The primer for the floor must be waterproof, antiseptic, protecting against mildew and mildew. The primer must have high adhesion in order to secure the topcoat as reliably as possible.

When choosing a composition, it is necessary to pay attention to its transparency. This will emphasize the texture of the wood and remove restrictions on the use of finishing materials.

Non-transparent compounds are used in the case of subsequent painting of the floor surface.

To protect the surface from fire, it is necessary to use primers with fire retardants.

Biocides with antiseptics will protect wood from insect pests, mildew and mildew.

Underfloor heating primer

For processing the surface of a warm floor, which is poured with a cement (concrete) screed, are used concrete primers.

The underfloor heating screed must be vapor permeable, not stained, and have good adhesion.

The optimal primer is an acrylic primer.

Under the tiles

Preparation of the base for laying tiles involves dedusting and reducing the water-absorbing properties of the floor.

For laying tiles on a concrete or cement base, it is necessary to treat the surface with primer, which will strengthen the surface, protect the base from moisture and ensure maximum anchoring of the tile to the floor. In this case, you need to use deep penetration soil.

The best the composition will be a primer based on acrylic.

Laminate floor primer

If concrete acts as the base of the floor under the laminate, then priming of the surface is mandatory. The primer of the floor for laying the laminate must remove dust, ensure the waterproofing of the surface, carry out an antiseptic treatment against the appearance of fungus and mold.

For priming the floor under the laminate, polyurethane and acrylic primers are suitable.

Chipboard floor primer

A chipboard floor requires protection from moisture, mold and mildew. For priming the surface of a chipboard floor, primers for processing wood products are suitable. The exception is shellac primer, which is used for surfaces made of softwood.

If in the future the floor will be painted, then it is necessary to use soil compositions that are consistent with the paint. For alkyd-based paints, an alkyd primer is used. For acrylic paints - acrylic.

For polymer floors

Priming the surface before the installation of self-leveling floors has the goal of reducing water absorption, increasing adhesion and creating conditions for uniform distribution of the liquid composition of the self-leveling floor.

For the installation of polymer floors, epoxy primer is suitable.

Primer application technology

Applying any type of primer to any substrate requires certain rules to be followed. The surface is leveled, cleaned of debris and dust. The primer is applied with a brush or roller. The optimum working temperature is from + 15 ° to 30 ° C.

How to prime parquet correctly

Not only dust and debris is removed from the surface of the parquet, it is necessary to remove any stains (from oils, varnish, etc.). If the solution is ready for use, it is simply mixed thoroughly to a homogeneous consistency. In other cases, the composition is diluted, depending on the type of primer, with water, solvent or white spirit.

After thorough mixing, the primer is applied to the parquet in a thin layer, for which a soft brush is considered the ideal tool, but you can use a roller, rubber spatula.

It is applied in 1-2 layers strictly along the wood fibers, carefully making sure that there are no uncovered places.

The next layer (primer or varnish) is used only after the first one is completely dry.

Types of primers

What are wood primers before painting?

Functionality

Antiseptic primers provide antibacterial protection. They kill microorganisms that have already settled in the wood, and form an environment that prevents them from reproducing in the future. Antiseptics, as a rule, prevent the appearance of wood-eating insects; many contain flame retardant (fire retardant) additives.

Impregnation with an antiseptic will help you forget about the fungus and woodworms for a long time.

Reinforcing (primers, or deep penetration primers) serve, as it is easy to conclude from the name of the category, to increase the mechanical strength of the base.Most of the primers of this type are universal: compositions intended for brick and plaster surfaces are perfect for wood, plywood, hardboard and chipboard.

Finally, hydrophobic soils are needed to protect the wood from excess moisture. They are primarily used for for wooden facades.

Composition

The choice of the composition of the primer is determined by what type of paint is supposed to be used.

Acrylic resin penetrating primers are the most versatile. They are used for any type of paint, since they are almost completely absorbed into the wood, leaving no film on its surface with the possibility of subsequent delamination.

Deep penetration formulations based on acrylic resins can be used under any paints.

• Silicone-acrylic primers are characterized by pronounced hydrophobic properties. After their application, the moisture content of the wood is stabilized and practically does not change with fluctuations in atmospheric moisture. It is clear that for full protection against dampness, a water-repellent primer is applied over the entire surface of each element of a wooden structure.
• Alkyd primers are used, respectively, for painting with alkyd enamels (PF-115 and its imported counterparts). In essence, primers of this type are identical in composition to enamels, but contain more solvent, dry faster and contain the cheapest pigments.

In addition: the primers make the surface rough after drying. Thanks to this feature, the adhesion of the paint to the base is made more reliable.

• Polyurethane primers are relatively expensive and are designed to prepare wood for coating with parquet varnishes based on polyurethane synthetic resins. As in the case of alkyd primers, they differ from varnish only in the large amount of solvent and the absence of tinting additives.
• Linseed oil is traditionally used as a primer for oil paints. What can be used to replace the plaster primer? By impregnating wood to a depth of several millimeters, it not only ensures the most reliable adhesion of the paint to the base, but also protects the wood from dampness and decay.

Brief classification of primers by composition

Depending on what is included in the composition of the solution, the properties of the primer change. The following types are distinguished:

• acrylic;
• alkyd;
• shellac;
• silicone-acrylic;
• oil;
• epoxy.

Acrylic based

Acrylic compounds are water-soluble and practically odorless. They are fluid and penetrate deeply into the wood fibers. A noticeable film does not form on the surface, but the pores are also well clogged, and resin and tannin do not come to the surface. Acrylic dries well and quickly, therefore it is suitable for outdoor and indoor use.

The composition protects the tree from destruction and deformation, is compatible with antiseptic additives. It is considered universal, it is used for painting with various paints and varnishes.

Acrylic solutions must be applied in several layers so that they saturate the wood well and form a reliable layer. Because of this, the consumption is quite high.

Based on alkyd resins

Alkyd compounds form a thin film on the surface, which will protect the tree from external influences. They also strengthen the structure by binding the fibers together and closing the pores. Used for loose materials: fresh or old wood, chipboard.

It takes up to 10 hours for the primer to dry. For exterior decoration, it is necessary to choose a dry, stable weather so that the composition has time to dry out.

Silicone-acrylic

Solutions of this group penetrate deeply into the wood and retain its texture. After drying, the structure becomes dense and becomes water-repellent to its entire depth. After processing with a silicone-acrylic compound, you do not have to take additional measures to protect the wood from moisture.

Such a primer is used in the event that the walls will be exposed to dampness, for example, in basements or when decorating. It is also ideal for applications where the substrate is covered with opaque paint.

Shellac

The composition is used in the processing of conifers, since it neutralizes the effect of emitted resins. After priming, the risk of discoloration or deterioration of the paint material due to resin release is minimized. Also, the shellac agent prevents changes in the texture of the wood.

Primers of this type are excellent insulators and seal pores tightly. Thanks to the processing, the consumption of paints and varnishes is reduced several times.

Polyurethane and epoxy compounds

Used for any paint and varnish materials. They clog the pores tightly, preventing the wood from "breathing". On the other hand, the topcoat is flat and tight. These formulations are thicker than all other types of primers.

Use for residential premises with caution

Antiseptic primers

They contain antiseptic additives. They protect wood not only from bacterial infections, fungus and mold, but also from insects. Recommended for use in damp climates where the risk of rot is higher. It is also necessary to treat all wooden parts in cellars and basements with an antiseptic.

Drying oil

Used as a primer or stain. Often used under oil paints. The drying oil impregnates the wood by a few millimeters. Thanks to this deep penetration, it perfectly protects the material from rotting and moisture penetration. Also, after drying oil, the surface is very rough, which ensures excellent paint adhesion.

Styrene primers

After drying, a completely non-penetrating layer forms. The wood is obtained as if in "isolation". This ensures maximum protection against the weather. Styrene compounds are used for processing under enamels and oil-phthalic paints.

Primer selection criteria

A quality primer for furniture or wood must meet the following requirements:

1. Transparency.
2. Fast drying.
3. Lack of toxic substances in the composition.
4. Ease of application.
5. The presence of antiseptic components in the composition.

Colorless, water-based primers highlight the beautiful wood texture and make it ready for subsequent finishing. Such processing gives permission for oil paint, and also protects the product from negative factors, including mold, putrefaction or insect attacks. Substances from the composition repel pests and extend the life of the structure.

If the wood is filled with moisture, the drying time will be doubled. Acrylic compounds must be applied outdoors: then they will dry out faster. When processing in hot weather, the surface is primed in the early morning or afternoon.

Experts recommend applying one coat of primer. This applies to the alkyd primer. The rest of the options require two or more layers.

At the stage of selection, it is worth stopping at quality products from trusted brands. It is impossible to save on primers, because the future appearance of the processed facade, furniture or other wooden items depends on them. Experts believe that it is better to purchase a budget enamel or varnish than a primer.

If the wooden surface will be painted additionally, but there is a desire to preserve the woody texture, careful preparation will be required.

The sequence of actions at the preparatory stage is determined by the specifics of the coverage. When applying a primer to an old paint, it is not necessary to completely remove it, but provided that similar paints and varnishes are used.

Before priming, you need to sand the surface with sandpaper and get rid of the peeling of the paint.

If another agent is to be used as a finishing coat, you will need to remove the old paint with a spatula or thinner. Then the wood needs to be sanded and cleaned of irregularities.

Primer application does not require much effort or skill. If you figure out how and how to process a wooden surface, this will simplify the work ahead.

The following tools may be needed for post-processing:

1. Roller.
2. Brush.
3. Spray.

Apply the first coat generously to remove irregularities. It is recommended to carry out processing at low humidity and positive air temperature.

Any primer must be water-repellent. This requirement applies to all types of such funds.

Having decided how to prime the tree before painting, you can start looking for a suitable option for your work.

Why is a parquet primer used?

Untreated parquet wears out faster, so it is imperative to prime the coating. Do I need to prime before plastering gypsum plaster? Application of the composition before final finishing provides the following results:

1. High-quality varnishing of lamellas. The primer evens out the solid parquet, filling cracks and closing the pores.
2. The correct composition emphasizes the natural shade and texture of the wood, preventing darkening and drying of the lamellas.
3. Even if the varnish gets between the planks, the lamellas will not stick together, which means that the risk of deformation is reduced and when the dies are replaced locally, the entire base will not have to be lifted.
4. If a primer is used under parquet, the consumption of varnish is significantly reduced.
5. After priming, a protective film forms on the surface, preventing the formation of mold and rot.

Primers for glue clean the parquet from dust, level the surface, serve as a good waterproofing and impregnating agent. Compositions for varnish are used to increase the strength of the coating, increase wear resistance, protect against stains, loss of color and prepare the coating well for the final varnishing.

This is interesting: How to make a primer on your own - we study in general terms

Primer types

A primer for paint on wood will fully fulfill its functions if it is correctly selected. It is not surprising, because if you ask for a primer in a hardware store, you will immediately be asked about the type of substance.

There are two large groups of materials that differ from each other:

1. Classification of primers by composition.
2. Types of primers for their intended purpose.

By composition

Primers, according to their composition, can be divided into the following groups:

Acrylic based. The peculiarity of acrylic products is their versatility. It is suitable for chipboard, wood, concrete, brick and plastered surfaces. Used for porous materials, dries quickly (about 5 hours) and does not emit any odor

Allows the material to breathe, which is very important for wood. Air passes through its structure, the room is ventilated, and the material itself gets rid of excess moisture

Acrylic compounds are not suitable only for metal surfaces.
An alkyd primer for wood is considered the best option for treating wood. After application, the structure of the material becomes slightly swollen, the adhesion to the surface is improved. It dries not as quickly as the previous version, about 15 hours. Ingredients may be added to prevent rust and mildew. Glyphthalic compounds. They are mostly used for the treatment of metal surfaces, however, the products are also suitable for wood. Drying up to 24 hours. There is a big disadvantage - it can only be used for dry rooms. With prolonged exposure to moisture, the substance loses its original properties. Perchlorovinyl materials. Another versatile compound used for wood, brick, plaster and metal surfaces.Such a primer for wood for painting dries very quickly, in the summer the layer dries up in just 1-2 hours. True, you cannot use a primer for internal surfaces, it is toxic. Polyvinyl acetate. Made from latex and polyvinyl acetate dispersion (main component). Suitable for all surfaces. True, a primer for acrylic paint or any other will not work. This is a prepared substrate for polyvinyl acetate paint only. Drying - about 30 minutes. Phenolic. Base coat for painting, applied to metal and wood surfaces. Drying takes about 15 hours. Scope of use: outdoor work. Polystyrene. Scope of use - external work on wood and plastered surfaces.
Aluminum. It is applied to a wooden surface. Additionally, it protects the material from the negative influence of the fungus. Epoxy. It is used for processing only metal and concrete, protecting against corrosion and improving adhesion. Shellac. Primer for painting wood. Thanks to her, resins will not stand out from the structure of conifers. Mineral. Made from cement, plaster and lime. Applies to brick and concrete only. Drying lasts from 3 hours to a day. It all depends on the thickness of the layer and the material.

By appointment

Thanks to the addition of additional components, the primer acquires certain properties for better painting of the walls. Types of products:

1. Deep penetration. If the surface is loose and not strong enough, then this is the best option. The substance strengthens the wall, reducing the consumption of paints and varnishes. Scope of use: impregnation of plaster, for bricks, aerated concrete, foam concrete, gypsum board. It is not worth using a composition for preparing a surface that does not absorb moisture poorly.
2. Antiseptic, for wet rooms. These include the kitchen and bathroom. The composition is supplemented with special substances that prevent the defeat of the fungus. In addition, it is water-repellent and increases fire resistance. After the base has been primed, paint or other finishing is applied. The adhesion is so high that biological microorganisms cannot penetrate into the layers in any way. Excellent composition for wood.
3. Anti-corrosion. Used for metal, prevents rust.
4. Adhesive and non-contact. This primer can be applied to old paint as it provides maximum adhesion to smooth and non-absorbent surfaces. Adhesion is increased by adding acicular quartz or sand to the composition. Ideal base for heavy wallpapers.

Manufacturers indicate what kind of primer it is. Just look at the packaging. There is information about the consumption, as well as the scope of use.

Types of compositions by appointment

The specific properties of primer compositions determine their immediate purpose.

Three types of primers are generally used for wood surfaces.

Deep penetration soil

It is advisable to use primers for this purpose for the treatment of surfaces that are highly absorbent. Such materials include wood.

The technology of the primer is as follows: micron-sized polymers (30-60 nanometers) deeply fill the pores of the wood, strengthening them. Due to this, the surface strength of the processed material increases, and the ability of subsequent absorption decreases.

On average, the depth of soil penetration into wooden bases is 5 mm, high-quality compounds increase this indicator to 5 cm.

Attention!
When choosing a deep penetration soil, you need to pay attention to the concentration indicator (dry residue). The higher this value, the more the soil can be thinned without compromising its performance.

Antiseptics

The issue of weak resistance of wood building material to external influences is solved due to its antiseptic treatment - impregnation. The composition of antiseptics includes biocides and poisons that kill microorganisms.

Depending on the expected result, antiseptics are selected for the intended purpose.

Waterproof

The presence of special substances with water-repellent properties in the composition of the antiseptic soil prevents the formation and spread of fungus and mold on wooden surfaces, protects the wood from decay.

Scope of moisture-protective antiseptics:

• rooms with high humidity (sauna, bathroom, kitchen);
• buildings and materials made of wood, subject to constant weathering;
• wooden structures buried in the ground.

Due to the adhesion of moisture-protective antiseptics, a barrier is created for microorganisms at the interface between the adhesion of the soil and the topcoat.

Strengthening

To enhance the strength properties of the tree, stabilizing antiseptics are used, the use of which is in demand in the following cases:

• processing of rafters and other wooden structural elements carrying an increased load;
• priming of plank and parquet floors.

In practice, such impregnations also perform other protective functions inherent in all antiseptics.

High-quality antiseptic compounds retain their properties for long periods of storage and operation.

Non-contact adhesive primer

Calibrated quartz sand is included in the composition of soils of this type, due to which a strong adhesion bridge is created between the substrate and the topcoat.

This primer can be used over old alkyd or acid-cured paints.