What kind of primer should I use before painting?

The primer you use depends on the surface and the type of paint you'll be using. If you're painting over a previously painted surface, you can often get away with using a <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/Universal/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0ut90?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">general-purpose primer</a>. However, if you're painting over a bare surface, you may need a primer specifically designed for that surface.

Should I use a brush or a sprayer to apply primer?

While <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/Roller/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0ky1u?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">rollers</a> are great for larger areas, <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/Brush/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0ky1w?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">brushes</a> are best for tackling smaller areas and corners and achieving a more precise application. <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/Paint-Sprayer/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0kg49?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">Sprayers</a> are also an option, especially for large projects, requiring careful handling and proper ventilation.

How do I know which primer works with my paint?

You want to make sure your primer and paint are compatible. We offer primers with features like <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/1-Quart/Sealer/Dries-Clear/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0oepeZ1z1dqtdZ1z1rxhm?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">dries clear</a>, <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/1-Quart/Sealer/Waterproof/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0q3moZ1z1dqtdZ1z1rxhm?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">waterproof</a>, and <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/b/Paint-Primers/1-Quart/Sealer/Rust-Preventative/N-5yc1vZbt0tZ1z0kxdwZ1z1dqtdZ1z1rxhm?emt=plpfaq_2408_primers" style="text-decoration: underline;">rust preventative</a>.