It's pretty common to use a primer before you start painting. However, there are some brands and types of paints that don't require primer. Are you using Benjamin Moore paint for your home but don't know whether a primer is necessary? We have done plenty of research to find you the answer.
Benjamin Moore does offer self-priming paints, specifically these product lines:
- Aura
- Natura
- REGAL Select
Other Benjamin Moore paints typically need a primer beforehand. In general, Benjamin Moore recommends using one of their primers before you paint, but this depends on the condition of the wall surface, pre-existing paint color, and the intended finish.
As we begin, we will cover all things Benjamin Moore paints. Whether you want to switch brands or use Benjamin Moore regularly, it is essential to know whether your paint needs a primer. With that said, let's jump right into this post!
Is There Primer In Benjamin Moore Paint?
When it comes to Benjamin Moore paints having a built-in primer, this is not always the case. According to Benjamin Moore's online product guide, they do offer paints with primer included, although this is not the same for all their products.
Specifically, their Aura, Natura, and REGAL Select lines will all include a built-in primer, so you do not need to buy an additional product. That said, if your current walls are very dark, you might want to consider using a primer anyways.
Benjamin Moore Regal Select Interior Latex Paint And Primer
This interior paint has a built-in primer, high-quality latex formula, ultra-matte finish, and comes in a one-gallon container.
Check out this paint on Amazon here.
Do You Need To Prime Before Using Benjamin Moore Paint?
Although using a primer with Benjamin Moore paint is not always required, it will give your walls a higher quality look. Regardless of which Benjamin Moore paint you use, priming your walls beforehand is a great way to ensure your paint goes on smooth and covers your existing wall color.
On top of that, Benjamin Moore also makes a high hiding primer, which is perfect for anyone with darker walls.
How Do You Use Benjamin Moore Primer?
For those using one of Benjamin Moore's primers for the first time, this is pretty simple. Follow these steps:
- Clean your existing walls with a warm soapy sponge.
- Sand down uneven areas and remove any chipped or peeling paint.
- Using a paint roller or brush, evenly apply your primer to your walls.
- Allow your primer to dry for one to two hours, and you're ready for paint!
Fandeli Grit Multi-purpose Sandpaper Sheets
These multi-purpose sandpaper sheets are high-quality aluminum oxide material, work on wood, paint, metal, and plastic surfaces, and come in a pack of 25.
See these sheets on Amazon here.
Benjamin Moore Sure Seal Multi-Purpose Primer
This multi-purpose primer works on painted wood, plywood, drywall, and ceiling tile, is splatter resistant, has low odor, and comes in a one-gallon container.
Follow this link to view it on Amazon.
Benjamin Moore Primer Tutorial
Here is a video tutorial on using one of Benjamin Moore's primers from their official YouTube channel. This video covers all things priming and discusses what types of walls/surfaces will need a primer before you paint them.
How Do I Know My Walls Need Primer?
There are some signs to look out for when it comes to knowing whether your walls need a primer. A few key indicators include:
- Porous walls or surfaces
- Semi or high gloss walls
- Stained, miscolored walls
- Walls with strong odors
- Walls with existing paint
Although these are just some of the signs your walls will need a primer, make sure to have them as smooth and clean as possible before applying new paint.
What Does Primer Do?
Functionality-wise, primer essentially covers any imperfections your walls might have and blocks existing stains from affecting your new paint. Primer also gives your walls a smooth surface to paint on, which will result in a more professional-looking, high-quality paint job.
Another thing to note is that using primer improves paint adhesion, which is important for anyone painting over darker-colored walls/surfaces.
What Happens If You Don't Use A Primer Before Painting?
When it comes to skipping primer before painting, this can result in a poor-quality paint job. Like we covered earlier, older, uneven walls need a primer before new paint, so skipping one can end up wasting time and money.
Furthermore, if your walls are super dark and you want to paint them lighter, skipping primer can show your old color through your new paint. Of course, every wall is different, but in general, we recommend using a primer before applying any fresh paint.
Do You Need A Primer If There Is Already Paint?
Generally, as long as you use the same color paint on your walls, you don't need to re-prime them. With that said, this will depend on how old your existing paint is and whether it's in good shape, but touch-ups rarely require primer.
On the other hand, if you want to paint your walls a new color that is lighter than their current shade, it might be worth it to prime them. Remember, there isn't one way to do this, so inspect your walls for any stains or damage and use a primer if you think it will improve the quality of your paint job.
What Type Of Primer Should I Use For My Walls?
Formula-wise, we would recommend using a water-based latex or an oil-based primer on your walls. According to Home Depot, water-based latex primer is more all-purpose, while oil-based primers work best on wood/porous surfaces.
Between the two, we would say an oil-based primer will be more durable, while a water-based latex option will be easier to clean. Of course, this comes down to your walls, but we think an oil-based primer will hold out the best.
Does Benjamin Moore Make An Oil-Based Primer?
From what we found, yes, Benjamin Moore does make an oil-based primer. Their Fresh Start All-Purpose Oil Based Primer is one of their most popular options and has a premium quality alkyd formula.
On top of that, you can also use this primer over latex or oil-based paint, which makes it great for covering your existing wall color. This primer also promises to block stains and increase paint adhesion, so it might be a good option to consider.
Does Benjamin Moore Paint Need Two Coats?
Most times, you should only need to use one or two coats of Benjamin Moore paint on your walls. Their website recommends using at least two coats of paint for optimal hide-and-color development, so keep that in mind while painting.
They also mention how important it is to let your paint dry between coats, so give your walls a few hours to settle before repainting them.
How Long Does Benjamin Moore Primer Take To Dry?
Typically, you can expect Benjamin Moore primer to take between one and three hours to dry and about three to four days to develop. Depending on your primer's formula, this timeline can be slightly different, so it is essential to read your product's instructions before using it.
That said, an oil-based primer will take a little longer to dry versus water-based, so try to give it closer to four hours between recoating/painting.
You now know the time it takes for a primer to dry, but what about the paint coats? Take a look at this article for more guidance: How Long Should Benjamin Moore Paint Dry Between Coats?
To Wrap It Up
Whether you want to repaint your entire home or take on a small DIY project, knowing whether Benjamin Moore paints will need primer is important. Not all Benjamin Moore paint requires using a primer, but this depends on their formula.
When it comes to which Benjamin Moore paints don't need primer, their Aura, Natura, and REGAL Select lines all include one, so no additional primer is needed. Formula-wise, we recommend using an oil-based or water-based latex primer for your walls and giving them a few hours to dry before recoating/painting. Regardless, keep an eye out for one of Benjamin Moore's paints with a built-in primer, and don't forget to clean your walls before painting them.
Want to know more about Benjamin Moore and primers? Check out these helpful posts below!
How Many Coats Of Primer And Paint For Bathroom Cabinets?
How Much Is A Gallon Of Benjamin Moore Paint? [A Cost Breakdown By Type Of Paint]