Hello painters! In this article, we are going to discuss oil-based paint over the water-based primer. Before going on to the main topic firstly we will discuss sub-topics like What is meant by oil-based paint? What is meant by water-based primer? Difference between oil-based and water-based? What are oil-based paints? What are water-based primers? We will give information to you in the form of video and images in an interesting way. Keep on reading for more details in this article. Before completion of this article, we will include the main details you require easily.

Oil-Based Paint Over Water-Based Primer

Have an overall idea on the topic of oil-based over water-based primer in the form of a video

Oil-Based Paint Over Water-Based Primer: In Detail

What Is Meant By Oil-Based Paint?

We are actually talking about the type of solvent used in the paint, which is the liquid component of the paint that evaporates as the paint dries. Oil-based paints (often incorrectly referred to as enamel) use an organic solvent in the makeup of the paint, which is typically mineral turpentine. Oil-based paints can achieve a higher sheen level when applied due to the makeup of the paint; however, the sheen does become duller over time. Oil-based paints dry harder which provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.

What Is Meant By Water-Based Primer?

Water-based primer is usually used for walls and ceilings where there is new work and preparation is required, and oil-based primer is primarily used for doors, windows, metal, or woodwork. Enamel is hardier so surfaces that require heavy traffic or exposure to the elements are usually painted in enamel. Water-based primers have a hydrating effect. So they are perfect for people with dermatitis or dry skin. And because they don’t obstruct the pores, water-based primers are ideal for people who suffer from acne breakouts from time to time. This non-comedogenic variety is also perfect for sensitive skin.

Oil-Based Paint Over Water-Based Primer: What’s The Difference?

When you’re referring to oil-based paint and water-based primer, both are the same but we are actually talking about the type of solvent used in the paint, which contains a liquid component that evaporates as the paint dries. Oil-based paints (often incorrectly referred to as enamel) use an organic solvent in the makeup of the paint, which is typically mineral turpentine. As the name suggests, the solvent used in water-based paint (also known as acrylic paints) is almost all water.

Characteristics of Oil-Based Paint and Water-Based Primer

Sheen Levels of Oil Based-Paint Over Water-Based Primer

Oil-based paints can achieve a higher sheen level when applied due to the makeup of the paint; however, the sheen does become duller over time. While water-based paints achieve a lower sheen finish, water-based paints can typically maintain this sheen level over a longer period of time.

The Durability of Oil-Based Paint Over Water-Based Primer

For providing wear and tear the oil-based paints works well as they dry harder. As they dry harder it provides excellent resistance, and there is not a lot of flexibility within the paint, which means oil-based paints hell to crack and become dry and chalky over time. These oil-based paints are also known to yellow over time. Compared to oil-based paints water-based paints dry quite hard and be effective when resisting damage and wear and tear. One of the flexibility afforded to water-based paints is that they are able to expand and contract with weather conditions. As they contract with weather conditions it makes them less susceptible to cracking.

Exterior Use of Oil-Based Paint Over Water-Based Primer

On exterior applications, water-based paints work well. This happens because water-based paints are much more resistant to UV rays, as it is much more resistant this allows them to retain sheen levels and color over long periods. This water-based paint is flexible which means the paint can move with the substrate and contract in different weather conditions, making it the perfect choice for exterior uses. Whereas Oil-based paint does not perform well in exterior conditions as it breaks down in UV light and develops a chalky surface.

Common Mistakes When Using Oil-Based Paint Over Water-Based Primer!

The most common mistake we see is people will try to apply their oil-based to their water-based primer before the primer has dried. As you know that oil and water tend not to mix well and the same applies to oil-based paint and water-based primer. Hence you have to wait for the water in your primer to evaporate before you start adding your oil layer.

We know that beginners are often excited and want to pitch in and get started with their painting so one trick we have seen people recommend is to have two pieces of artwork on the go at the same time. One that is on some old canvas that has already been primed or on paper that does not need to be primers so you can work on that while your new canvas has its primer dry.

Oil-Based Primer or Water-Based Primer Paint

Primer paint gives your finished paint job a smoother finish. If you did not use a primer at all because paint grips better and it will last much longer. Primers will, even though relatively expensive, save you a lot of money in the long run. What you use to prime depends on the surface that you are painting – wood, metal, or concrete. Modern primers are often water-based primers and dry very rapidly. Some can be recoated with finish paint in less than an hour. Using a paint primer will actually speed up the job, not slow you down. It is recommended you always use a primer before plunging into a painting job.

Also Read: Oil Based Spray Paint

Conclusion

That brings our article going over how to use an oil-based paint over a water-based primer to an end. We hope that you have found it helpful and that we have been able to point out the various mistakes people make time and time again when using a water-based primer and an oil-based paint in the same piece of artwork. Although some people do claim that you should totally avoid using an oil-based paint over a water-based primer, provided the primer has been left to dry fully, it can work well and deliver great end results.