Can Primer Be Used as the Finish Coat When Painting?

Ask Danny, Painting & Finishing by Danny Lipford

I am planning to paint my shed. Could I use some leftover primer as the exterior finish coat? -Aaron

Hi Aaron,

Primer is not formulated to stand up to the elements and should be topcoated within several weeks to ensure proper bonding. If left uncovered for an extended period of time, primer will tend to deteriorate and chalk, which could prevent future coats of paint from adhering properly.

Also, primer comes with a flat sheen to promote bonding between the substrate and top coat, which does not hold up as well to sun, rain, and dirt as satin or glossy paints.

Good luck with your project,

Danny

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3 Comments on “Can Primer Be Used as the Finish Coat When Painting?”

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  1. Jacky Says:
    December 30th, 2009 at 10:24 pm

    Can a primer be used as the finished coat in a bedroom?

  2. Jacky Says:
    December 30th, 2009 at 10:32 pm

    To be more specific…I painted my room with a primer and then a finished coat. After a few thoughts, I realized that I like the colour of the primer more. Is it possible to repaint the room with the primer over the finished paint?

    Thanks

  3. Official Comment:

    Ben Erickson Says:
    December 31st, 2009 at 12:14 pm

    Hi Jacky,
    While primer should not be used as a finish coat, you could paint a scrap with it, let it dry, take it to a paint store, and have the color and gloss matched to a finish paint.

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