Composition and properties of latex primers, their advantages and disadvantages

When carrying out painting and puttying work, it is necessary to use mixtures of primers. They contribute to significantly improve and modify the surface properties. Usually the composition is chosen taking into account the base that is planned to be painted. There are compounds that can be applied exclusively to wood or metal, and there are universal products. Latex primers fall into the second category.

Latex primer: composition and properties of the material

Universal latex primers are applied to various types of surfaces - concrete, wood, plaster, brick, plasterboard. With the help of a specialized composition, it is possible to achieve the following effects:

• make the base more durable;
• improve protection against external factors;
• to increase base and finish adhesion settings.

Latex compounds are used for interior work. They are allowed to process various porous surfaces.These substances are well absorbed and penetrate deep into the structure. Thanks to this, it is possible to save subsequent finishing materials. Additionally, latex primers can be used to level joints in drywall and plaster surfaces.

If the composition is applied to the facade of the building, then it must be covered with latex paint. This primer forms a strong, yet thin, protective film that does not bubble or bulge.

Structurally, latex primers are an aqueous dispersion that contains additives and polymers. Using ingredients in a formula helps to give it the desired properties. Latex blends help hide tough stains. They are characterized by ease of application, are quickly absorbed and dry.

The specific variety must be selected taking into account the objectives of the preliminary priming. The main characteristics of the materials are as follows:

• Ability to withstand exposure to low temperatures. Thanks to this, it is allowed to use the substances for external and internal work.
• Suitable for loose and porous surfaces, as well as old paintwork or unprepared surfaces. This is due to the material's ability to penetrate deep into the base layers and strengthen them.
• High moisture resistance parameters. Therefore, it is permissible to apply primers in rooms with high humidity. They are used to treat kitchens, saunas, bathrooms.
• Universal goal. Primer mixtures can be used on different surfaces.
• Security. The mixtures do not have a strong aroma or toxic substances in the composition.
• Reliable protection against the appearance of fungus and mold.
• High adhesion to subsequent topcoats.

Another important property of such floors is considered to be quick drying. On average, the substance dries in 2 hours.

Principle of operation and scope

The latex primer achieves the following results:

• Reinforces the adhesive characteristics. This is the most important feature to help improve coverage. The polymer layer is reliably bonded to the processing surface - concrete, brick, wood, plasterboard or metal. It also bonds well to applied coating, including adhesive and paint coatings.
• Reduce the cost of finishing materials. Despite the fact that the wallpaper or tile has a strong and dense structure, they are fixed with liquid glue.
• Strengthens the superficial layer. The latex film binds microcracks well on concrete and brick surfaces. It also helps to increase the strength of the cardboard base. Thanks to this, it does not get wet under the influence of paints and varnishes.
• Carry out the waterproofing. The pores of the treated surfaces are filled during the application of the polymers.
• Neutralize the color spectrum of the base. To do this, add a white dye to the primer mixture.

Latex primers can be applied to the following types of surfaces:

• concrete;
• brick;
• cardboard;
• plaster;
• plasterboard;
• Aerated concrete.

Quite often, the substance is used for tongue-and-groove slabs, cement-sand screeds, gypsum surfaces and cinder blocks.

Advantages and disadvantages of latex primer

The primer must necessarily correspond to the type of support on which it is applied. This feature should certainly be taken into account when choosing a substance. So, for the treatment of porous substrates, it is permissible to use a deep-penetrating primer.There are also on sale special mixtures for wallpaper or anti-corrosion agents for applying to metal surfaces. The latex primer has the following advantages:

• Deep penetration into porous materials. As the liquid permeates the base well, its resistance increases.
• Respect for the environment and safety. The soil contains exclusively natural ingredients. Therefore, during the application and subsequent use of the coating, harmful elements do not enter the air.
• Significant reduction in base porosity. The latex primer saturates the surface of the material. For this reason, it does not absorb so many substances used for finishing.
• Fast drying. Latex substances dry in 2 hours. This saves time on repairs. After a few hours, the coating can be painted, putty or plastered.
• Increased adhesion rate. The primer bonds well to any topcoat.
• Make the surface water repellent. This prevents moisture and water absorption. As a result, fungus and mold do not grow inside. Latex substances are allowed to be used in rooms with high humidity - in a bathroom, toilet, kitchen.
• Economic consumption. On average, it is 100-120 grams per square meter. With the rapid absorption of liquid by the surface, the maximum cost is 200 grams.

What are: varieties and recommendations for choosing

Latex primers are available in the following varieties:

• universal;
• deep penetration;
• antiseptic.

The specific type of material is selected taking into account the purposes of the primer surfaces. At the same time, it is important to focus on well-known brands with a good reputation.

Ranking of the best brands

Primer mixtures are produced by different brands. The highest quality formulations include products:

• Axton;
• Bayramix Astar.

Thus, Axton manufactures reliable and economical formulations. At the same time, Bayramix Astar products are suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Features of use

For a substance to give the desired result, it is important to apply it correctly. In this case, it is worth preparing the surface.

Surface preparation

Before applying the primer, you must do the following:

• Prepare all the necessary tools and materials. Applying latex primer may require rollers, brushes, trays and primer containers. It is also recommended to use rags, newspapers and plastic wrap.
• It is recommended to thoroughly clean the substrate to prepare it. Any rust should be removed from metal surfaces, and the walls should be cleaned of dust with a brush. It is also recommended to wash greasy stains. If necessary, you should use antiseptic agents that protect surfaces from rotting. After that, the coating must be dried.
• To open cracks and treat them with plaster. It is also allowed to use a specialized composition.
• Cover furniture and floor with plastic wrap.
• Monitor humidity and temperature parameters. Temperature indicators should be at least +10 degrees, and humidity - up to 75%.

Calculation of consumption and preparation of the working solution

The consumption of the primer mixture is influenced by many factors - the type of base, the presence of pores, the number of layers that it is planned to apply. The average consumption of latex is 150 grams per square meter.

To achieve the formation of a solid film on the base, the solution should be used in 2-3 layers. In this case, each subsequent layer can be applied only after the previous one has completely dried.

After preparing the surface, it is recommended to start preparing the solution. In this case, it is important to focus on the manufacturer's recommendations. Before application, the primer should be mixed well.

Application of a primer coat

To prime the surface, it is recommended to proceed as follows:

• Pour some primer into a palette or small container.
• Treat all hard-to-reach places with a brush. These include joints between walls and ceilings, between walls and floors and areas near batteries. It is also recommended to pay attention to the slopes of windows and doors.
• Continue the surface treatment with a roller. To prevent the floor from dripping, it is important to wring the fur coat from the tool into the pallet.

To create a durable layer, the primer must be applied 2 times. Only in this case will it be possible to saturate the pores of the surface with matter.

How long does the primer dry

At room temperature, the primer dries for 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Precautions and safety measures

When using the floor, it is important to observe a number of rules:

• When working at height, create a solid structure. For this, it is recommended to use special scaffolding.
• Always wear protective clothing and closed shoes. It is also recommended to use a hat, a respirator and goggles.
• You should not work if you are not feeling well.
• If the mixture gets into your eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
• Keep the composition out of the reach of children.

Mistakes allowed and tips from the masters

When using the earth, beginners make various mistakes:

• choose the wrong composition;
• do not prepare the surface for the primer;
• failing to follow safety precautions;
• do not dry out each layer of soil.

Professional masters advise to follow the following recommendations:

• Apply paint over the primer once it is completely dry.
• Apply primer only to dry surfaces.
• In case of contact with skin or eyes, rinse immediately with water.
• Wash tools thoroughly after use.

Latex primer is a versatile compound that can be used on a variety of surface types. In this case, it is important to strictly follow the instructions and safety precautions.