Painting seems simple enough — but skipping steps can cost you. One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is overlooking primer. Whether you're painting drywall, wood, or masonry, using the right primer is one of the most important things you can do to ensure a long-lasting, professional-quality finish.

At Altona Painting, we treat surface preparation as the foundation of every job — from new builds in Ajax to older homes in Oshawa. Here’s why primer should never be skipped.

1. It Helps Paint Stick (and Stay)

Primer creates a smooth, consistent base that helps paint bond properly to the surface. Without it, paint is more likely to peel, flake, or wear unevenly — especially on:

• Bare drywall

• Unfinished wood

• Masonry or stucco

• Stained or glossy surfaces

It’s especially critical for any job involving wallpaper removal or fresh repairs.

2. It Evens Out Coverage

Ever painted a wall and noticed the finish looks patchy? That usually means the surface absorbed paint unevenly.

Primer helps seal the surface so your topcoat spreads smoothly and looks consistent — no blotches, no dull spots. It also helps you use less paint overall.

3. It Blocks Stains and Discoloration

Some surfaces (especially older walls or wood) can bleed through paint. Common culprits:

• Water stains

• Smoke damage

• Tannins from wood

Use a stain-blocking primer to lock these in and stop them from ruining your topcoat. This is a must for painting over dark colours or repairing ceiling damage.

4. It Makes Colours Pop

Primer creates a neutral base — which means your chosen paint colour looks exactly how it should.

This matters when painting:

• Over dark or saturated colours

• With lighter shades or pastels

• On uneven or multi-toned walls

Want colour clarity in every room? Don’t skip this step.

5. It Adds Durability and Protection

Primer doesn’t just help with adhesion — it also helps protect your painted surfaces from:

• Moisture infiltration

• UV damage (especially outdoors)

• Premature fading or chipping

It’s particularly important for high-moisture areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. You can read more about painting in high-traffic or moisture-prone areas in our recent blog.

6. It Saves Time and Money in the Long Run

Skipping primer might seem like a shortcut, but you’ll likely spend more time fixing flaws, applying extra coats, or repainting sooner than you expected.

In short: primer pays off.

Painting Done Right with Altona

Primer is one of those behind-the-scenes steps that separates a rushed job from a professional one. At Altona Painting, we use high-quality primers matched to each surface — whether we’re working on a brick exterior, trim, or cabinets in a Durham Region home.

Need help choosing the right primer or just want the job done right from the start? Get a free quote from Altona Painting today.