Types of wall primer for wallpaper (tips for use). Priming the walls under the wallpaper before gluing is an auxiliary, but very important material What kind of primer is better to use under the wallpaper

In order to make a repair that will surprise its owners for a long time, you must strictly follow certain technologies and steps. Priming the walls under the wallpaper is an important stage in construction that affects the final result.

The emulsion composition or primer (primer), due to the composition, easily penetrates into any structure of the wall surface, even porous. The composition sticks together different individual particles, taking care of the durability of the coating. The priming of the walls before wallpapering, unlike wallpaper glue, penetrates deeply into the thickness.

For the manufacture of the product, various resins, solvents and drying oils are usually used. It is often applied with a brush, roller or spray gun. Which tool is right for you? This is not that important, so just be guided by your preferences. The primer for walls under the wallpaper creates adhesion of the base with the facing material.

When used, a uniform film is formed. A person will not see her, but her very presence will provide surface protection. Priming the walls before wallpapering flattens the plane, relieves it of minor defects and irregularities, while removing small construction debris and dust from the surface.

Can wallpaper be glued without a primer? No, because if you do not use the technology of cleaning and priming the wall, then the finish may simply fall off.

Here's why to prime the walls before wallpapering:

  • a smooth surface is formed;
  • the base becomes more durable;
  • there will be no fungus on the supporting structure;
  • surface tenacity is provided;
  • you can hide dark spots or areas that have already faded (before pasting with light or thin materials);
  • resistance to mechanical damage is guaranteed;
  • you can priming yourself;
  • the cost of the mixture is quite affordable.

Manufacturers give a guarantee of the result, but success can only be achieved if all standards are observed. Some experts do not recommend using finishing materials without a preliminary priming procedure.

Wall priming is a mandatory procedure before gluing any wallpaper, including non-woven wallpaper. Do I need to prime the walls before wallpapering? To this question, many craftsmen, who have been working in the field of repairs for several years, say an unequivocal "yes". But how to properly prime the walls before wallpapering? You will learn more about this later.

Types of primers and their characteristics

Before answering the question of which primer to choose for wallpaper, you need to familiarize yourself with its main types. The following primers are available:

  • antiseptic;
  • alkyd;
  • acrylic;
  • special soil for concrete - silicone;
  • front;
  • mineral;

Related article: The purpose of the primer before painting and its main types

Antiseptic primer prevents mold from forming. It is well suited for the bathroom and kitchen, as the humidity is high in these areas. The alkyd wallpaper primer prevents corrosion, protects against damage, strengthens the base and gives it strength. What else is it for? The key feature is that the alkyd mixture can withstand very low and high temperatures. You also need a primer of this type in buildings without heating (for example, warehouses).

Ideal walls for using an alkyd primer are metal and ceramic. Due to the long drying process, it is not recommended to apply on drywall and concrete in living rooms.

Acrylic primer is the most common type of primer for wallpapering because of its versatility. Moreover, such a mixture permeates the entire plane. It is ideal for preparing the base before wallpapering. Drying process takes about 2 hours after application. Non-woven wallpaper is most often treated with an acrylic primer. Remember that a white mixture always looks good.

Silicone primer is applied to be painted, and the facade primer is ideal for external work - it does not allow moisture to pass through, but breathes.

Mineral wallpaper primer can be used on all walls. It contains cement, due to which antiseptic and protective functions are performed, adhesion (adhesion) is ensured. Well suited for non-woven wallpaper.

Pigmented (pigmented) primer must be applied under thin wallpaper, giving the plane a uniform shade and hiding noticeable spots. Gives a beautiful, even color.

A deep penetration primer is most often suitable for very porous or loose substrates.

White primer under the wallpaper allows you to hide color imperfections and serves to align the color of the walls. It is easier to work with it - untreated areas are immediately tracked. They need to be processed again. When the white primer dries, light and thin canvases can be glued to the wall. If the wall is initially white, then a universal composition can be taken for the priming of the walls.

What is the best primer for wallpaper walls? Pay attention to the existing foundation. For ideal grip, the mixture should penetrate as deep as possible. Be sure to prime the walls before gluing the non-woven wallpaper.

Disadvantages of Liquid Primer

The negative qualities of a very liquid composition include the heterogeneity of the finished coating. You will have to spend a significant amount of time so that when using the roller, there are no marks left. Apply the primer to the walls evenly.

Also, the liquid mixture contributes to the appearance of dark spots on the wall (due to poor-quality material). This is typical for new homes. The primer of the walls under the wallpaper (even if it is not very liquid) must be applied slowly. If this is done by hand, you need to ensure that all areas are covered.

Related article: Advantages of priming over tiling and types of compositions

Preparation of the composition at home

Sometimes they make a primer for the walls under the wallpaper with their own hands. This does not require special tools and skills. Make sure the proportions are accurate. To prepare the composition you will need:

  • clean water (3 + 4 l);
  • laundry soap (150 g);
  • slaked lime (2 kg);
  • (100 r );
  • capacity (2 pcs);
  • sieve (1 pc).

Cooking steps:

  1. Mix 3 liters of boiling water, 150 g of grated soap, stir well.
  2. After dissolving the soap, add 100 g of drying oil.
  3. In another container of 4 liters of boiling water, dilute 2 kg of lime.
  4. Mix both solutions and pass through a sieve.
  5. Let the mixture cool. Then you can use.

Preparing the walls

If the room is not in a new house and repairs have already been made, remove the old finish, remove the existing plaster and remove unnecessary particles (for example, nails), if any, and then prime the walls. If there are obvious damages or holes on the plane, then they need to be putty. It is recommended to use a primer for better adhesion of the two elements.

Any old coating (wallpaper, paint, whitewash) is a significant barrier before starting work. All this must be removed with high quality. Then the wall must be washed with warm water and all remnants of the former finish, as well as glue and paint, must be removed.

If repairs are planned in a new house, then the surface is less primed over time. To remove minor defects, the walls can only be previously putty, only then they are primed. The putty must be applied carefully. In many new apartments it will be necessary to bring bad corners into the required shape for a further beautiful finish (using a spatula and putty).

Before gluing the wallpaper and priming, the putty surface should be treated: clean the moldy areas, if any. A special impregnating primer will help completely destroy the fungus. Remember that the impregnation must be completely absorbed and dry.

Preparation of walls for non-woven wallpaper occurs in the same way as for other types. Use a quality formula for great results. Pay attention to evenness and uniformity when priming the wall.

In the video: how to properly glue non-woven wallpaper.

How to prime walls before wallpapering

It is imperative to shake the primer - this will ensure the uniformity of the mixture. When applying, you should not be lazy, because for a good result you will have to spend at least an hour on the room. However, with due diligence, priming the walls under the wallpaper is quite simple. Which primer should you choose? Everyone decides on their own - to buy a mixture or to make it yourself.

You cannot buy a composition with an expired or expiring date. Such a solution has already lost its qualities and functions.

Before priming, the surface must be properly prepared, leveled and cleaned, since the primer for gluing wallpaper canvases should only be applied to an ideal surface. Observance of a uniform coverage (without missing even small areas) will help the future finish to adhere to the entire area.

How to prime the wall before wallpapering? Most often, a roller is used, but you can walk around the corners and joints between the wall and the upper plane with a brush.

If the composition is very quickly absorbed and dries, then it is advisable to repeat the procedure one more time. Wait until the primer is completely dry. For faster absorption, you can increase the air temperature in the apartment by turning on the heating or heater. It is allowed to process the walls with the composition only if the temperature is above + 5 degrees. Remember that the wallpaper primer can be used at all stages of the renovation.

Related article: The subtleties of priming walls before filling

When choosing a product on the construction market, it is recommended to inform the seller of all the parameters and characteristics of the room for which the product is needed. He will help you choose what you really need.

When using a roller, the soil is poured into a special pallet. This ensures that the composition is evenly applied to both the roller and the wall. When processing the selected surfaces, it will be imperative to avoid sagging.

If there is a small section of an untreated plane, and there is not enough soil, then you can dilute it with clean water 2: 1, where the first is the composition, and the second is water. But this can spoil the result, so the solution must be purchased with a margin. If any remains, it can be applied to areas where there is no certainty about the quality of coverage. How to prime the walls under the wallpaper and how many times to prime the walls can be found in the product annotation.

Now you know whether you need to prime the walls before applying the wallpaper. After that, you can safely glue the wallpaper. Choose wisely what you have to prime the walls with before gluing the wallpaper - this will significantly affect the result. The primed surface is easier and easier to decorate. The primed surfaces will help to achieve the ideal quality of the repair.


Brands and priming works (29 photos)
























Wallpaper is one of the most demanded types of interior decoration: non-woven, vinyl, paper, textile, velvet, embossed ... The modern wallpaper market offers such a rich variety of these materials that it just makes your eyes dazzle.

All kinds of colors, original designs, different types of bases, different prices. For the repair to be of high quality, and the decorative coating to last longer, you will need not only good glue, but also a primer for wallpaper.

Do I need to prime the walls before wallpapering? And our answer is yes. We must! And here's why. A primer is a special impregnation of walls (usually a white liquid), which is used at the stage of preparing the surface for pasting.

  1. The special composition prevents the formation of mold and mildew, protects the base from moisture, provides additional adhesion and strength of the base.
  2. The primer acts as a link between the wall and the finishing materials. The adhesive properties of wallpaper glue and base materials are increased.
  3. After priming, the consumption of the installation solution is significantly reduced. The work itself will be of better quality. Note that you can prepare the surface for pasting with your own hands, without involving masters from the outside. You just need to know what materials to use, what is the sequence of work?

How to choose a primer

The walls under the wallpaper are primed several times. First, to strengthen the base and ensure adhesion to the plaster (filler) mortar. Then putty or plaster is primed so that the wallpaper linen fits well and holds more firmly. The putty must be primed before gluing the wallpaper. The putty has low moisture resistance, after applying the glue it can absorb liquid, swell and peel off.

Almost all primers are white liquid. A separate group is represented by the so-called primer paints, where the white color can be easily tinted or there is already a pigment in the composition.

For the first (rough) treatment of the wall with your own hands, you should use a deep penetration solution. This can be a deep penetrating acrylic primer or a contact primer. The main property of deep penetration primers is to penetrate 10 mm and deeper into the structure of the material.

After polymerization (drying), a strong film is formed, moisture-repellent, but breathable, preventing the destruction of the base, and having antiseptic properties. This is especially necessary if the wall is made of mineral materials.

With a deep penetration primer, the wall should be treated in several layers. Each subsequent layer is applied only after the previous one has completely dried. Deep penetration solutions can take a long time to dry. Therefore, it is recommended to adhere to the technical requirements when working with these materials, especially if you are doing repairs yourself.

All other types of primers are selected based on the type of wallpaper materials. Note that acrylic primer remains the most popular on the market. It is white, but amenable to tinting, can be used as a colored substrate for liquid wallpaper.

What are the compositions

Priming the walls before gluing the wallpaper is one of the important stages in the intermediate work on finishing the surfaces inside the room with do-it-yourself wallpaper. The types of primers, as mentioned, are classified according to their composition and properties. For example, heavy wallpaper materials (fiberglass, non-woven, bamboo, textile) need a stronger adhesion to the base than traditional paper ones.

Types of primers for wallpaper are divided into several groups:

  1. Acrylic-based - used for intermediate work on old plaster, cement and concrete, brick and stone, wood, plasterboard, chipboard and fiberboard. They are also applied to the putty. Complete drying of the impregnation is achieved after a maximum of 35 hours. Can be used in residential premises due to the absence of a specific smell;
  2. On the basis of alkyd resins - they are more often used for processing wood and metal surfaces, as it has anti-corrosion properties. But it is better not to use such a primer on plaster and gypsum. The polymerization time depends on the presence of volatilizing substances;
  3. Glyphthalic primers are applied to metal surfaces. After impregnation, you can proceed to further finishing no earlier than in a day. Most effective use in dry, warm rooms;
  4. Perchlorovinyl mixtures are intended for processing mineral substrates and metals. True, this type of impregnation is not recommended for indoor finishing work. The polymerization time is short;
  5. Based on polyvinyl acetate (PVA), it is better to use if the next material is of the same composition. As for the drying period, this is one of the fastest drying primers: under proper conditions, this process lasts only half an hour;
  6. Polystyrene compounds can be used on wood and plaster. But the composition contains organic solvents, therefore it is better not to use such a primer in residential premises;
  7. Phenolic compounds are intended for impregnation of wood and metal.

Another question about the composition: what acts as a thinner? Primers are subdivided into aqueous and organic solvent based. The former are safer for DIY indoor repairs. However, in some cases it is much more effective to use a solvent based (for example, for deep penetration).

There are also universal soils that combine the best properties of this group of building materials. To choose the right one, you can consult with the seller or a familiar specialist in repair matters.

Primer GLIMS Prime Primer

Ready-made material that does not require the addition of solvents or water. Due to its characteristics, this primer is in demand among specialists engaged in the repair and decoration of premises. This type of primer has excellent absorbency, which makes the substrate stronger, making it suitable for almost all surfaces.

The antiseptic additives that are part of the primer prevent the growth and spread of fungus and mold, which is why it is very recognizable and in demand among summer cottages.

Main advantages:

  • increases adhesion;
  • suitable for concrete, aerated concrete, plastered, plastered, plasterboard or asbestos-cement surfaces;
  • does not create a film;
  • serves as an excellent dust binding agent;
  • reduces the absorbency of the base, as well as prevents the appearance and development of the fungus;
  • allows you to evenly apply paint to the base and reduce its consumption or wallpaper glue;
  • increases the water resistance of the base.

Wall treatment

How to primed walls under the wallpaper with your own hands? Good question. It's not hard at all. The work uses a foam roller with a long handle (for the convenience of distributing the solution along the height of the wall). Pour a little impregnation into the bath, dip the roller, squeeze it slightly on the lattice side of the bath (so as not to drip), and process the wall.

Distribute the solution evenly over the entire surface. It is not necessary to use too much mortar, but there should also be no dry spots on the surface. The first application is finished, put the tool aside and wait for the impregnation to dry. More precise drying times are indicated on the packaging of the products you purchased.

What should not be done is to apply a new layer over the not yet dried previous one. This can be believed by touching the hand. Usually a double application is sufficient, but sometimes three or more coats are required.

When to glue the wallpaper

The walls are primed before gluing the wallpaper a few days before the installation of the decorative coating. Therefore, you should be patient and be sure to wait for the full polymerization of the impregnation. Otherwise, priming will not have the desired effect - better retention of the wallpaper on the wall. Then you can safely glue.

For the corresponding wallpaper, you need to choose the right mounting solution. Paper, thin and lightweight wallpaper can be glued with ordinary wallpaper glue. For non-woven wallpaper - non-woven glue (on a non-woven base). For vinyl, textile and embossed - vinyl. For heavy ones, it is imperative to choose a special mounting solution of increased strength and resistance to moisture. But the most important thing is that priming increases the assembly properties of the adhesive.

From all of the above, it becomes clear why there is a primer under the wallpaper. Correctly selected tool, high-quality do-it-yourself work is the key to the durability of the finish.

June 1, 2017
Specialization: Master in the construction of plasterboard structures, finishing works and laying floor coverings. Installation of door and window blocks, decoration of facades, installation of electrical, plumbing and heating - I can give detailed advice on all types of work.

Do you need to properly prepare the walls for gluing non-woven wallpaper? I will tell you what compositions you can use and how to apply them correctly so that your wallpaper holds firmly and does not turn yellow over time.

Types of compositions and their features

To prepare the walls for non-woven wallpaper, one of four soil options is used:

  1. Acrylic compounds;
  2. Alkyd primers;
  3. Latex compositions;
  4. Wallpaper glue solution.

Each solution has its pros and cons, which primer to choose for non-woven wallpaper is up to you, so carefully read all the information below.

If you do not treat drywall walls or a surface covered with putty with soil, then subsequently the wallpaper will be peeled off along with the finish or protective layer of the plates. Be sure to prepare the surface.

Option 1 - acrylic primer

This is the most popular lineup today. It has a number of advantages:

Illustration Description

Availability... The composition can be found at any hardware store. The primer is sold in packages of different sizes and can be either ready-made or in the form of a concentrate, which is diluted with plain water immediately before use.

Low cost... For a liter of the train, you will pay from 60 rubles, this price is affordable for almost any developer and does not significantly increase the total cost of the project.

Ease of application... The composition is diluted with plain water and applied to the walls with a roller or brush. The primer has practically no smell, so you can work without using protective equipment, if it gets on the skin, the composition is simply washed off with water.

Fast drying... Wallpaper can be glued 2-3 hours after applying the primer. This allows you to carry out all the work in one day. Of course, if you need to apply two layers, then the period increases, this should also be taken into account.

Improving the adhesion of wallpaper glue... The primer clogs all small pores on the surface, reducing its absorbency. Thus, the adhesion of the adhesive composition is significantly increased, while the consumption of glue is reduced, and the savings can sometimes be up to 50%.

Many composition options... On sale you can find the following types of soil:
  • Firming;
  • Deep penetration;
  • With antiseptic additives;
  • Increasing adhesion.

If you have uneven color of the walls, then choose a staining primer, it will even out the tone and make the walls light. If it was not possible to find such a primer, then you can simply add 10-15% acrylic paint to it.

Option 2 - alkyd primer

Such a primer for non-woven wallpaper has its own characteristics:

Illustration Description

Created from a polymer composition... This option is not water-soluble, so when using it, you need to use special solvents. The compositions are sold in a completely finished form, before use, the composition is thoroughly mixed and, if necessary, diluted to obtain the required consistency.

Used for wood based materials... Alkyd primer is used for processing chipboard, fiberboard, plywood, wood, OSB boards and other similar elements. Also, the composition can treat metal surfaces.

This option is not suitable for plasters and putties.


Paints the wall a specific color... For wallpaper, a white composition is best suited, it is he who is most often used. Be sure to pay attention to this aspect when buying, otherwise you may find that your soil is brown or gray, which is not suitable for creating a base for wallpaper.

Creates a thin film on the surface... The alkyd primer does not penetrate the material; it covers it with a thin moisture-proof layer. Most often, processing is done twice for the best reliability.

Option 3 - latex primer

Such a primer for non-woven wallpaper began to be used relatively recently, but has already gained popularity for the following reasons:

Illustration Description

Strengthens the surface... This type of compound is ideal for loose substrates: plaster, old putty, drywall, etc. It can also be used for wood based materials. High penetrating power allows walls to be strengthened with minimal time and cost.

Moisture tight... For this reason, latex based formulations are recommended for use in all areas with high humidity. A moisture-proof barrier is created, which protects the walls from the growth of mold and mildew.

Closes pores well... If you have a concrete wall with many pores, then latex primer will seal them, thereby reducing the consumption of wallpaper adhesive and improving the adhesion of the composition.

Option 4 - primer with wallpaper glue

For work, the same glue is used with which non-woven wallpaper is glued. Only the application process differs:

Illustration Description

Standard glue used... In this case, you need to purchase one and a half times more composition than is required, since some will go to the preparation of surfaces.

... For this, the glue is diluted in warm water. Everything is done in the same way as usual, with the only difference that water must be used twice as much. The liquid is poured into a container, after which glue is added to it with continuous stirring.

After stirring, the composition is left for 10 minutes, after which it is mixed again.


The adhesive is applied to the walls with a roller... The composition is evenly distributed over the surface in one layer. It is important to ensure that no streaks remain on the walls.

You can continue working only after the surface has completely dried, usually it takes from 4 to 12 hours.

This option can only be used for solid, flat surfaces, if the walls are porous and loose, then it is better to use specialized soil.

Do not use PVA glue for priming walls under non-woven wallpaper. Although it creates a strong film on the surface, yellow spots may appear on the wallpaper later.

Application technology

Let's figure out the technology for applying primer. Instructions for applying the compositions with your own hands are presented in the form of a diagram, below each stage is disclosed in detail:

  • The surface is prepared... Before priming the walls before gluing the non-woven wallpaper, it is worth removing the remnants of old coatings from them and filling up all the irregularities with a putty compound. The final stage of preparation is to clean the base from dust with a vacuum cleaner or a regular broom;

  • Preparing a primer... The cooking process depends on the type of soil. All the necessary information is usually indicated on the packaging, and I described in detail above the option using wallpaper glue. Most often, you just need to stir the solution, if the concentrate, then dilute it;
  • Preparing instrument... For work, it is best to use a roller and a paint bath, as in the photo. To reach the top of the walls, you can take a ladder, or you can use a special extension handle. Around the perimeter of the room, the floor is covered with polyethylene so that splashes of primer do not fall on it;

  • The first layer is applied... Everything is simple here: the soil is evenly distributed over the surface, the pressure on the roller is moderate. All smudges are immediately removed, the wall should be wet throughout the entire area;

  • After drying, the wall is checked... Just swipe the surface with your palm - if there are grains of sand or putty particles on it, the treatment is repeated. If your hand is clean, you can glue the wallpaper.

Output

You have learned about all the options for primer for non-woven wallpaper and can prepare the wall on your own. The video in this article will tell you about some important aspects in even more detail, if you don't understand something, ask in the comments.

The success of any business is 90% guaranteed by the thoroughness of its preparation. So it is with wallpapering.

How flawless the wallpaper will look on the walls depends on the composition of the correctly selected primer, which should be applied in an even layer to all walls before gluing any kind of wallpaper.

Despite the fact that the priming of the walls is a rough work, the liquid primer allows you to cover the walls with wallpaper much better.

As an auxiliary material, the primer, in fact, ensures the success of finishing works, including the use of wallpaper. The walls must be primed before gluing the wallpaper. It gives the decorative finish durability and surface perfection, enhancing its main technological properties:

  • reliable adhesion to the porous structure of the wall;
  • the formation of a smooth and even surface;
  • protection of the wall from mold, mildew and insects thanks to antiseptic inclusions.

Base, primer, primer - a layer applied under the wallpaper to create the most durable adhesive bond. According to its physical characteristics, it must correspond to the finish surface, or even be stronger than it. For this, adhesives, resins, film-forming substances based on acrylic (silicate, silicone, etc.) copolymers and various fillers and additives are added to the soil.

In fact, the primer is a homogeneous, odorless milky suspension in a concentrate diluted with water, giving a transparent film when dry.

The primer is produced in a dry mixture or in ready-made form, packaged in PET cans of 5-10 liters or buckets of 10 kg (concentrate). The product packaging must contain information:

  • the method and proportions of breeding;
  • on material consumption per 1 m²;
  • about the preferred method of application;
  • about the timing of complete drying.

The main properties of primers that determine their advantages:

  • penetration depth;
  • strengthening components;
  • the amount of adhesion;
  • antiseptic additives;
  • drying time.

When choosing a primer, it is important to consider:

  • type of surface to be treated (concrete, brick, drywall, plaster, wood);
  • constant humidity in the room;
  • primary or secondary layer of the primer;
  • the type and chemical composition of the topcoat (adhesive wallpaper or liquid);
  • density of the wallpaper used.

What is achieved by surface priming?

  1. The primer forms the basis for the adhesive.
  2. When penetrating deep into the structure of the wall, it fills cracks and pores, binds the remnants of construction dust, and the working surface is compacted.
  3. Adhesion increases - the adhesion of wallpaper glue to the wall, the process of spontaneous waste of wallpaper at the joints and corners of the room is prevented.
  4. The antiseptic components make the finish resistant to bioaggression.
  5. The consumption of wallpaper glue is reduced.
  6. The uniformity of the tone of the walls is given, their primary color (gray concrete) is hidden under the light wallpaper.
  7. The finish surface becomes even and flawlessly smooth.
  8. The walls' ability to "breathe" is preserved.
  9. The process of wallpapering is accelerated.
  10. Wallpapering acquires the desired durability.

Types of primers used for wallpaper: which one to choose?

Primers are distinguished by the method of solubility:

  • water-soluble - based on glue;
  • organic soluble - based on alkyd and acrylic resins.

A successful choice of base is guaranteed if you make a choice in the assortment line of one manufacturer, which will ensure full compatibility of materials and, as a result, a good result.

To prepare the wall for further finishing, the following are objectively in demand:

  • acrylic primers;
  • alkyd primers;
  • universal water;
  • latex primers - based on dispersed polymer particles;
  • specialized, with specified properties (antibacterial, anti-corrosion);
  • glyphthalic (GF), based on alkyd varnish, are applied directly to wood or metal (for summer cottages and garages);
  • deep penetration (up to 1 cm);
  • mineral.

At the same time, only 3 types of ready-made primers are most often used under wallpaper:

  • acrylic,
  • latex,
  • universal.

What effect can you expect from different types of primers?

Acrylic

This product is made on the basis of styrene-alkylate dispersion and polymer binders. The acrylic primer is ideal for interior decoration, does not emit foreign odors, dries quickly, and can be combined with any kind of wallpaper. Wherein:

  • reduces glue consumption;
  • reduces the hygroscopicity of the surface;
  • negates the likelihood of cracks;
  • increases the shelf life of the decorative coating;
  • diluted with water without loss of properties.

Acrylic primer, depending on the dominance of certain physical properties (high adhesion, moisture resistance, vapor permeability) or compositional characteristics, is divided into 5 types:

  • adhesive (for plastered surfaces or concrete walls with a dense surface);
  • deep penetration (for porous and "weak" surfaces);
  • universal (for any kind of surfaces with the effect of moisture resistance) for interior work;
  • special (with specified properties demanded by the consumer);
  • impregnating (for leveling loose surfaces).

Acrylic primer is usually applied in one or two layers with a paint roller, covering hard-to-reach areas with a soft brush.

Two to three hours is enough for the layer to dry completely, after which you can proceed to the next stage - pasting the wallpaper. The film formed by the soil protects the walls from mechanical damage, exposure to low and high temperatures.

The advantage of this type of soil is its applicability to surfaces of any kind, even dilapidated ones.

On walls leveled with plasterboard, wallpapers without a primer are usually fixed tightly, therefore, when re-gluing, they come off together with the gypsum layer.

With acrylic priming, they peel off easily (soaked in hot water) without damaging the wall.

The consumption of this type of primer depends on the porosity of the walls and the number of layers in the coating. On average, 100-200 grams per square meter.

Alkyd

The ability of a mixture of polymeric substances - alkyds to form a film on the surface after drying, is the basis for the idea of \u200b\u200bcreating one of the types of building primers. Alkyd primer has the properties of paint and therefore fits well on wooden coatings, even previously painted, strengthens the pores of the wood, prevents swelling and raising of fibers.

It gives the surface moisture resistance, resistance to fungal infections. Also, it can serve as a base for a second layer of acrylic or latex primer, or a base for painting with acrylics.

Primers based on alkyd mixtures are not capable of deep penetration into the structure of the working surface.

But they are widely used for the preparation of wood, metal surfaces, precast concrete and are susceptible to decorative finishes of any kind.

The alkyd primer is excellent at blocking rust and preventing it from spreading. The exceptions are plastered and gypsum surfaces - they cannot be fixed with alkyd primer.

A primer of this type is produced in a composition fully prepared for use. It is applied in one or two layers (2 mm thick) using a front roller, a brush or a spray gun.

To achieve the desired consistency, it is allowed to dilute the alkyd soil with white spirit or xylene.

The drying period is long - up to a day, at a room temperature of 20 ° C. Material consumption per square meter - 100-120 ml.

Latex

Latex is a natural material that served as the basis for the production of rubber, in which its main qualities were manifested: strength, elasticity, water resistance, resistance to compression and tension. After the creation of a synthetic substance with the properties of latex, it began to be added to various building materials to give them new useful qualities.

This is how a latex primer for walls appeared - an opaque liquid substance that, when dried, creates a thin film that provides better adhesion of the wall surface to the decorative panel of wallpaper.

This type of primer lays down evenly, dries quickly, although it has a lower adhesive power in comparison with acrylic. It is mainly used to strengthen crumbling and loose surfaces (old plaster, drywall), for.

The material fits well on precast concrete and fibreboard panels, natural stone and wall plastics. Latex primer shows its advantage in the arrangement of rooms with high humidity (swimming pools, jacuzzis, winter gardens). Material consumption - 300-500 g per square meter.

Universal

The name itself suggests that the universal primer is designed for all types of surfaces, including old and crumbling ones. Created on the basis of acrylic copolymers with the addition of resins for reinforcement, it is well diluted with water and provides deep penetration into the structure of the base material, increasing its adhesion properties.

Whether inside or outside - the universal primer is ready to strengthen the surface of the walls, enhance their hygroscopicity, resist the alkaline environment of the fresh solution, and create a durable coating. Therefore, it is so in demand in restoration construction.

This type of soil fits equally well and interacts with dense bases, plasterboard partitions and foam-aerated concrete.

A feature of the universal primer is its resistance to freezing and thawing processes.

Even with five cycles of such exposure, it fully retains its technological qualities. You can apply primer with a brush, roller or even a spray gun. At the same time, the consumption per 10 square meters is only 1 liter.

Priming walls with wallpaper glue

Many people find it easiest to prime the wall before wallpapering with the same wallpaper glue. Of course it is possible. But this is a simplified version of wall processing, which will not solve such problems as deep bonding of the surface layer, increasing moisture resistance, antiseptic impregnation, leveling.

An adhesive primer in this form does not require special knowledge and skills, for this it is enough to dilute the glue in a larger proportion, pouring it into water, stir it thoroughly, wait until it swells and cover all surfaces on which it is supposed to glue the wallpaper. After a day, you can start gluing.

Some brands of wallpaper adhesives even provide for this use.

With wallpaper glue, the wall is primed using a front roller, which, however, does not save from increased glue consumption, since it thickens quickly. The consumption of glue for this method of wall preparation is 500 g per 20 m².

Priming with PVA glue

The legacy of the Soviet era is the method of priming walls under wallpaper using PVA glue. PVA construction glue is a non-toxic polyvinyl acetate emulsion, to which gypsum, chalk, alabaster or drying oil are sometimes added. This increases its strength and hiding power when priming porous surfaces.

The PVA-based priming method is economical, but over time gives the effect of the appearance of yellow spots, therefore it can be used only where quality is not the basis of the predicted result.

It is necessary to dilute the PVA-based soil in a warm room with vigorous stirring to a "kefir" consistency, combining the glue with water in a 1: 2 ratio.

Considering that during storage of the solution its adhesive properties decrease, the mixture is prepared in portions, repeating the procedure after covering the next section of the wall.

The dried coating must be checked for strength and lamination.

The popularity of this priming method is given by its economy, but it is certainly not suitable for high-quality repairs using expensive materials.

How to apply the primer to the walls?

  • The primer of the walls under the wallpaper is applied to the prepared wall, on which the putty was sanded, the dust was swept off, the sockets, switches, electrical connectors were covered with foil.
  • Along the perimeter of the walls, it is necessary to lay polyethylene to protect the floor from glue.
  • The primer is prepared in a bucket according to the manufacturer's recipe, but poured in small portions into a plastic tray for the convenience of using the front roller.
  • In order for the roller to reach the very top, it must be placed on the stereoscopic handle.
  • If the work is carried out with a brush, the container should have a neck that allows the brush to freely enter it.
  • The excess solution is wrung out from the brush on the edge of the tray.
  • To work with a brush, you may need a reliable ladder or goats.
  • At the end of the work, it is necessary to check: are there any unprimed places.
  • If necessary, a second coat can be applied.
  • Dry the primer at room temperature for 24 hours.

Working with liquid materials, and even at a height, requires strict adherence to safety rules:

  • Work should be carried out in clothes with a closed collar and long sleeves; covering the head; wearing protective gloves and goggles.
  • To prepare the composition - exclusively according to the manufacturer's recipe, placed on the product packaging.
  • For work, use small portions of the diluted material in trays.
  • Do not use substances that could cause an allergic reaction.
  • If the primer gets on the skin, it must be urgently removed under running water.
  • It is recommended to regularly ventilate the room to prevent synthetic fumes poisoning.

The quality of wall decoration is estimated not only by the cost of exquisite expensive wallpaper or an unusual shade of paint. Half of the success of a well-made cladding belongs to preparation, which includes such activities as leveling, putty, priming the walls for the topcoat. Let's try to understand the variety of modern primers and find out which ones are suitable for wallpaper, and which ones for painting.

The primer (primer) is not an independent finishing material, its role is secondary. Nevertheless, it is she who is responsible for how tightly the wallpaper will adjoin or how smoothly the decorative color scheme will lie. A liquid or thick solution is sold ready-made, in packages that are easy to carry and transport. Thicker formulations must be diluted with water in the proportion indicated in the instructions before application.

Apply the ready-made solution with a roller or brush

A solution of a primer for walls under wallpaper is white, transparent or with a slight shade. After application in a thin layer and drying, it forms a barely visible film, which increases the efficiency of subsequent finishing works. The composition of the products on the modern market is very diverse: it can contain latex, acrylic, alkyd, silicate components, as well as adhesive fillers, resins and antifungal additives.

The main purpose of primers:

  • increasing the degree of adhesion of finishing materials;
  • deep penetration of the solution into the base material;
  • protection of the base and decorative coating from drying out, cracks, waterlogging;
  • antiseptic protection against the occurrence of foci of fungus and mold;
  • masking small defects that have arisen after surface preparation;
  • creation of a completely finished base for applying the finishing lining.

The consumption of funds for 1 m² is indicated directly on the container (can, bucket or bottle). In addition, there you can find application instructions, storage recommendations, expiration dates and the date the product was manufactured. It is also deciphered here for which surfaces this type is intended and for what finish it is recommended to use it. There are special compounds for plaster, drywall, wood, concrete, brick and even plastic.

Primer types: which is best for the home

The choice of auxiliary material depends on the base on which it will be applied and on the decorative finish. We will find out which primer to choose for walls for wallpaper, for painting or for a putty, and the best way to prime wooden and plastered surfaces.

Alkyd

Alkyd primer is not the most common preparation option, as it has a limited purpose. It does an excellent job of protecting concrete and wood surfaces, preventing their porosity, but is absolutely not suitable for gypsum, drywall, plaster or putty areas. The alkyd solution interacts well with acrylic primers and paints, therefore it often acts as a pair with them, as the first layer.

Sample Inexpensive Anti-Corrosion Alkyd Primer

Unlike more penetrating analogs, the alkyd solution acts only on the surface of the processed material. It is often preferred for covering reinforced concrete structures. The fact is that under the influence of moisture, metal parts can become covered with corrosion, which, in turn, can spoil the appearance of glued or painted structures. An alkyd primer blocks the spread of rust, preventing rapid wear of the decorative layer.

Latex

Latex primer is classified as a natural type, since it contains the juice of a rubber tree. However, in the production of solutions to increase performance, chemicals are added to them - this should not be forgotten by lovers of environmentally friendly construction products. Latex is prized for properties such as elasticity, water resistance, wear resistance, resistance to changes in humidity and temperature.

Latex is the best material for preparing plaster for painting

Most of the commercially available formulations are based on synthetic latex. It is cheaper than natural material, but retains its properties. Outwardly, the latex mixture in cans looks like a transparent liquid, when applied to the wall it looks like a thin, almost invisible film. It has a high drying rate, but is inferior to acrylic counterparts in terms of adhesiveness.

Unlike alkyd primer, latex is perfect for loose, old, flaking surfaces: plaster, drywall, plaster. Due to its excellent water-repellent qualities, it is also used for wooden sheathing - beams, boards, lining, chipboards, as well as for concrete slabs and brick structures.

Epoxy

There are two types of epoxy primer:

  • for metal;
  • on concrete.

The first type is extremely rarely involved in finishing, since there are no metal parts protruding from the bearing structures and partitions, and the second is applicable to concrete surfaces. However, when buying, you may be faced with the fact that you are offered one-piece or two-piece samples. Two-component, consisting of a base and a hardener, are not suitable for preparing walls - they are usually used to increase the strength of a concrete base for self-leveling floors.

High quality epoxy primer is also suitable for wall decoration from the outside of the building

Therefore, if you wish to use an epoxy primer, you must purchase a one component mortar. Its advantages include good protection against moisture, a high degree of adhesion, fire safety, and wear resistance. If you are looking for which wall primer is best for paper or non-woven wallpaper, you can purchase an epoxy primer, but it is better to consider acrylic compounds.

Shellac

With the return of fashion for natural building materials, interest in the construction of private houses and summer cottages from wood has renewed. For interior decoration, most often they choose not wallpaper, but paint with an antiseptic effect. As a basis, experts suggest using compositions containing shellac.

White shellac is the best base for pale, pastel paint shades

A liquid solution, reminiscent of ordinary varnish, penetrates deeply into the structure of the wood, making it more durable and resistant to moisture. Shellac neutralizes the action of the resin, which, after some time, can discolor any finish. The pre-applied base improves the performance of a variety of paints, including decorative paints, varnishes and stains.

Is it worth wondering if the walls need to be primed before painting, if the shellac treatment protects the wood from mold and creates an excellent even base for the next finishing layer? The choice of modern shellac-based mixtures is extensive: from transparent, ideal for bleached surfaces, to colored ones that completely cover the natural pattern.

Phosphate

When looking for a good adhesive, you may stumble upon a phosphate (phosphating) primer made with orthophosphate acid. Immediately, we note that this type of primer is not suitable for repairing rooms. It is intended for the preparation of metal surfaces (steel, aluminum, copper, etc.) for the application of enamel or paint.

Phosphating agents are often found in garages.

For ease of application, the phosphate primer is sold not only in standard cans, but also in cans, with which you can evenly spray the product on complex metal surfaces.

Acrylic

Finally we got to the tool that is really more suitable for home use than others. The polymers that make up acrylic primers are absolutely safe, do not have specific odors, dry quickly after application and are suitable for all surfaces.

Benefits:

  • reduces the degree of hygroscopicity of the base for pasting or painting;
  • masks small irregularities and cracks, prevents the formation of new ones;
  • serves as additional protection against mechanical damage;
  • increases the service life of the decorative coating;
  • thick composition is easily diluted with water;
  • allows you to save money by reducing the consumption of glue or decorative paint.

If you are wondering how many hours after priming the wallpaper can be glued using an acrylic white wall primer, you will be pleasantly surprised. Just 3-4 hours is enough for the base to be completely ready for further finishing. There are also ultra fast-drying solutions, the readiness of which is determined by 1.5-2 hours.

Acrylic primer can be easily applied using a paint roller

Solid wood, crumbling plaster, porous concrete slab, plasterboard for the partition - acrylic works wonderfully on any surface. For loose bases, it is better to apply it in two layers; for processing even and reliable structures, one is enough.

Do I need to prime drywall before wallpapering? The only answer is yes. If you want to make repairs in a few years, when you dismantle the wallpaper, the untreated drywall will simply crumble, and the pre-impregnated one will completely retain its integrity.

Deep penetration

If you have relatively flat, smooth walls that held the previous cladding firmly, you don't need to buy deep penetration. However, it is useful for those who want to prepare surfaces that have the following characteristics:

  • high degree of water absorption;
  • crumbling or cracked structure;
  • fine porosity;
  • dustiness or soiling (arising from the use of gypsum, plaster).

As the name suggests, this type of primer penetrates deep into the structure of wood, concrete, brick, plaster, completely impregnates the top layer, making it durable and waterproof.

Deep penetration primer for decorative work

To learn more about the characteristics of a deep penetration primer, you can study the instructions of the popular brands "Optimist" and "Ceresit". The quality of the solutions can be judged by how much the primer for the walls costs. The price tag of really effective formulations is at least 550 rubles (10 liters). The cost of the most expensive alternative options reaches 6 thousand rubles and more.

Adhesives

Often, instead of ready-made primers, wallpaper glue or PVA glue is used. This possibility is allowed if the surface has no flaws, has increased strength and previously served as an excellent base for wallpaper or a layer of paint. In other cases, it is better to use special compounds, which not only serve as an ideal base for the decorative layer, but also create additional protection.

The only advantage of wallpaper glue solutions is the low price. But be prepared for the fact that with high humidity or constant drafts, the lining will move away, as a result of which you will have to make repairs again.

Wallpaper glue is not the best substitute for a special primer

The risk of using PVA glue lies in the gradual change in its color. Don't be surprised if your homemade plasterboard or plaster wallpaper primer suddenly turns yellow and shows through the decorative finish. This will be especially noticeable on light-colored paper wallpapers belonging to the single-layer category.

Choosing a primer for pasting

Many apartment owners, who have started renovations for the first time, are interested in whether it is necessary to prime the walls before gluing the wallpaper and what to do if such a need arises. Additional preparation never hurts, but not all types of auxiliary materials are suitable for processing walls if you want to decorate a room with expensive non-woven or vinyl wallpaper. We will try to understand this issue.

What surfaces are primed on

As you have already noticed, there are many different types of primers for all surfaces. If you wish, you can choose a special primer for materials that are usually used for building or leveling walls:

  • wooden beams;
  • brickwork;
  • concrete plates;
  • plasterboard partitions;
  • plastered surfaces, etc.

Sometimes, when building private houses or in the process of renovating apartments, oriented strand boards are used, made from wood chips, various resins and wax. Sticking wallpaper on a porous, paraffin-coated surface is quite problematic. It is better to prepare the walls with a primer under the wallpaper for OSB boards.

One of the ways to level the surface of the OSB board

We recommend using a special white primer for walls under the wallpaper, which completely prevents translucence (if painting is necessary) and creates an even, uniform base for sticking any category of wallpaper.

Primer instructions for use

It is not enough to choose the right solution, you must be able to apply it correctly. Suppose that the walls have been previously cleaned of old cladding, leveled and, if necessary, plastered. Let's consider how to properly prime the walls before wallpapering.

The process of applying a liquid solution is as follows:

  • put on a protective uniform (gloves, respirator or mask, work clothes);
  • pour the liquid into a container convenient for work - a bucket, a basin, a special tray;
  • dip the roller or brush into the solution, wring out so that the excess does not drain;
  • we apply the composition to the selected area from bottom to top;
  • after priming the surfaces with a small brush, we process hard-to-reach areas (in the corners, at the joints, behind the pipes);
  • wait for drying and repeat the procedure.

How long does the primer dry on the walls before wallpapering or painting? The answer to the question must be written in the instructions

Prepared surface - ideal base for wallpaper

How to prepare walls for painting

Wallpaper, especially textured and vinyl on a non-woven base, perfectly hide small irregularities in the base. This cannot be said about paint, which is not able to mask any cracks or depressions, and light shades are unlikely to paint over dark spots. It turns out that processing for painting is even more important than for wallpapering.

Remember that the surface to be painted should be not just flat, but perfectly flat. For this, the walls are pre-plastered or putty, and it is desirable that a professional work. It is very difficult to achieve a flawless picture on your own without previously practiced skills.

Smooth base suitable for embossing patterns

Do not forget that only complete drying of the mortar guarantees the required performance of the coating. On the prepared plastered surface, the primer is applied for painting in the same way as for pasting. However, if you are decorating walls with light-colored paint, it is better to stop with a white primer and apply it 2-3 times.

Videos about the types and characteristics of primers

Informative video about the types of primers:

Interesting material about the rules for applying primer:

Preparation of walls for pasting or painting is not necessary, but very useful: it will reduce the consumption of glue or paint, improve the adhesive properties and performance of the base. If you want your wallpaper to lie flat and the color of the paint to be juicy, we recommend purchasing a primer that fully matches the characteristics of your walls. Consultation of a seller or a designer will not hurt.