Best primer for bare plaster?

Discussion in 'Painters' Talk' started by rogerk101, Jan 13, 2020.

  1. rogerk101

    rogerk101 Screwfix Select

    I have a huge amount of newly skimmed plasterboard, on walls, horizontal ceilings and sloped ceilings.
    We haven't decided yet what the final paint will be for each of surfaces, but I'd like to get a primer onto them now.
    All plaster is now fully dry, at least 5 weeks since skimming, and well ventilated, but not heated.
    Ideally the paint we use will act as a vapour barrier, so I'm not looking for a breathable primer or paint at all.
    What would be the best paint for me to use as a primer now, onto which I can eventually apply a good quality, washable soft sheen or satin paint in a few weeks time?
     
  2. DIYDave.

    DIYDave. Screwfix Select

    A simple ‘Mist Coat’ is all that needed (a frequent topic on this forum)

    Can’t see anything wrong with basic white matt emulsion (no vinyl as in ingredient)

    Leyland Trade Emuslion, often on special offer if you shop around, either 12lt for price of 10lt or 2 tubs for x£ amount

    Thinned down with tap (or bottled water if you prefer :)) it will do a magnificent job at sealing your new plaster, ready for top coats going on

    Possibly some sanding and filling required inbetween ?? All depends on the job and your expected finish

    Can’t see the point in using anything else ,,,,, new plaster paint, plaster sealers, acrylic undercoats, etc

    Others will have their own preference and I’m only diy so, yep, let’s see :D
     
  3. jackelliott07

    jackelliott07 Active Member

    Yep, mist coat will do the job. Also does a great job at highlighting any minor dings n dents as Dave mentions. Best time to fill/sand and sort those.
     
  4. Hans_25

    Hans_25 Screwfix Select

  5. Alwaysworking

    Alwaysworking Active Member

    If you do go for bottled water, don't use sparkling!
     
    Flora789 likes this.
  6. rogerk101

    rogerk101 Screwfix Select

    Many thanks everyone. I knew that this topic had been discussed many times, but couldn't find a nice succinct answer ... which I've now got. Much appreciated.
     
  7. Wayners

    Wayners Screwfix Select

    What's going on as final top costs? Always look at spec as some paints don't like going over contact emulsion as very porus. I'm priming a wall I skimmed today with a acrylic primer thinned about 30%. This seals and won't let wall breath vs contract emulsion which will. So many factors to consider but what ever you apply read the data sheet.
     
  8. rogerk101

    rogerk101 Screwfix Select

    Actually that's a big factor for me. Downstairs ceilings can breath as much as they want ... I don't care, but upstairs ceiling need to be as much of a vapour barrier as possible, as I don't want any moisture getting into the insulation space. Yes, it is very well ventilated in there, but it's better for it to be as dry as a desert in there rather than risk any condensation.
     

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