Do I need to prime before painting the walls ( Already builder painted walls)

[ppp]

Hello Members,

I'm thinking to paint my son's bedroom with different colors. 

The house is 4 years old and has white color paint done by builder. So I'm not sure exactly what they would have used.

So my question is, Do I need to prime these walls before painting a color ?

Should I go for water based OR oil based paints, as builder had already painted (Don't know which type they used) ?

Your suggestions please ?

Thanks

[EricL · Accepted solution]

Hello @ppp

In order to identify what kind of paint you have on your wall. You'll need to do a Diggers Methylated Spirits - 1L test. Grab a clean rag and dip a corner in the Methylated Spirits. Rub the wet portion on your wall, if the paint comes off it is water-based paint, if the paint does not come off then it is oil-based. If you're not keen on priming your walls, I suggest using British Paints 4L White Low Sheen Interior Paint And Prime tinted to your preferred colour. On the condition that the old paint on your wall is water-based. 

However, if it is an oil-based paint, you will have to use an oil-based primer before painting the topcoat on. Please keep in mind that the regular steps of sanding and prepping will still need to be done before painting your wall.

Here are some handy guides:

• How to prepare walls for painting

• How to paint like a professional by @Peggers

• How to paint

• How to undercoat a wall

• How to paint trims

Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing the start of your painting project.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ppp]

Hi EricL

I found that the paint in my room is water based as per your suggested methylated spirit test.

I have decided to paint 2 different colors ( Blue Passion, Portal Grey).

Now my question is, how can I tint to get these colors ? OR should I buy these colors directly form bunnings ?

Sorry I've never done that. I would like to know step by step for making a specific color.

Thanks

[EricL]

Hi @ppp

It's great that you've decided on the wall paint colours. Your next step is to measure each wall that you will be painting. Once you have the total measurement of the walls, the paint specialist will be able to calculate the number of cans you'll need. You can then proceed to the store and show the paint specialist at the counter the colour sample that you want. The colour sample is a rectangular piece of cardboard with the colour of your preference. If it's not on the sample board, show the paint specialist the name of the colour. They will mix it for you. The paint you're after is not pre-mixed it will have to be tinted at the store.

Make sure to bring the list of tools and materials you will need to do the painting. You can show the list to the paint specialist or you can choose the tools yourself.

Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing the start of your painting project.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric