to prime or not to prime is the question!

[kshyams]

Hi folks,
Spring is here, I would like to paint my townhome which is a 2 year old (new) construction. I have white flat paint on all the walls. I had one contractor comein and give me estimates. I decided I could do it on my own. The contractor suggested that there was no need for a primer coat.
My question is how does one determine if a primer coat is necessary? Should I go ahead and paint a primer anyways?
Thx for your suggestions
S

SK

[kactuskid]

A primer is generally used when the walls have not been painted in alot of years as it covers up stains, can prevent having to apply multiple top coats as it keeps the new paint from soaking into the walls and provides a nicer finshed look. A primer is also used if painting over a semi-gloss or gloss to help the paint adhere to a shiny surface. Great primers are Zinsser's 123 or Zinssers CoverStain.

If your paint is only 2 years old and is flat then you should be fine in not using a primer. Be sure to buy the best paint you can afford. Cheaper paint is not better, you really do get what you pay for in paint. Also buy a good quality roller with no less than a 1/2" nap. Have fun [8D]

[dev 65]

I just bought a house that is nine years old and I am repainting the entire house inside and out. Like kactuskid said if the walls are in good shape and the paint is in tact a primer is not necessary. With my recient experience though I have found that paint sticks better if the wall is scuffed up first. What I did was use 100 grit sandpaper and a sanding block to go over the wall surface and went back with a damp cloth to remove any dust. This is important because if the walls aren't clean the paint will not stick. Again buy the best paint you can find.I purchased the superior quality paint from sherwin Williams in the easy pour gallon container ($25 to $30).Use semi gloss paint because stains are easier to remove.Happy painting[]