Finishing brings out the beauty of any surface. Paintings and epoxy coatings are beautiful but applying an epoxy primer is an important technique that cannot be overlooked. More than just for aesthetics, it helps to preserve the surface.
However, with the different types of epoxy primers on the market, finding the best for your needs might be difficult. This article presents 5 of the best epoxy primers you should consider in 2022.
What is an epoxy primer?
An epoxy primer is a sealer used for finishing surfaces before applying the final coat. They are waterproof materials made from epoxy resins through chemical processes. Two-part epoxy primers are compounds of zinc phosphate used to prevent corrosion and preserve the lifespan of the material.
Where can you buy an epoxy primer?
There is a demand for epoxy primers and as such, they are readily available. Epoxy primers could be gotten either in the hardware store or you could order them online. Shopping in a physical store allows you to have a feel of what you are purchasing. However, by buying from an online store, you get to review the product and assess the experience of other buyers.
how to use an epoxy primer?
To use epoxy primer, you will first need to clean and prepare the surface that you want to paint. This may involve sanding the surface to remove any imperfections and cleaning it with a degreaser to remove any oil or grease.
Once the surface is clean and dry, you can mix the epoxy primer according to the instructions on the label. This typically involves mixing equal parts of the epoxy resin and the hardener together in a clean container.
Once the epoxy primer is mixed, you can apply it to the surface using a brush, roller, or spray gun. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the best results. After applying the primer, allow it to dry completely before applying any additional coats or topcoats of paint.
It’s important to note that epoxy primer is a strong and durable product, but it can be difficult to work with. Be sure to read and follow the instructions carefully, and wear gloves and other protective gear as needed to avoid skin irritation or other problems.
Benefits of the epoxy primer
You would find choosing an epoxy primer an easy option for the following reasons:
Moisture resistant
Many epoxy primers can withstand moisture and hence could be used in concrete flooring as a replacement for Damp Proof Membrane. This helps to prevent paint from peeling off walls. Epoxy primers are water resistant and thus are more tolerant to corrosion making them a better alternative in fixing cars than regular primers.
Cost efficient
Unlike regular primers, using an epoxy primer saves a lot on future repairs. Primers create a smooth surface and a realistic view of floors making it easy to rightly decide the type of epoxy floor to be installed. Also, these floors are easy to maintain
Better bonding
Epoxy has a very strong adhesive property making them ideal for applying as the base coat before paints. It has a strong chemical composition that allows it to hold down particles of materials
As filler
Epoxy primers can be used to fill porous concrete or cement floors. Because they are thick, they can fill up this space and create a stronger bond saving time, cost and effort of applying multiple resin layers. They do this without tapping any air bubbles.
Recommended epoxy primer for 2023
There are numerous epoxy primers in the market from different brands so choosing the best for your project might be difficult. From the choices of many customers, here are some of the best epoxy primers to try out in 2022.
Rust-Oleum Automotive 2-in-1 Filler and Sandable Primer
Rust-Oleum is a popular 2-in-1 oil-based filler and primer for automobiles. Like with other epoxy primers, this one is sandable allowing easy adhering of paints. With the mix of a filler, it allows a perfect finish on all surfaces filling in small fractures and dents.
This 12 Oz pack gets dry to the touch in about 10 minutes providing excellent protection for your
surfaces. It boasts of a high formula that can fit in minor imperfections on the surface. Not just that it is rust-resistant, but it also helps to stop rust on the applied surface.
Pros👍
- It is a quick-drying primer that can be handled after an hour of application
- It is very durable and can last longer on the surfaces applied.
Cons👎
- The consistency is very thin and may require several coats on a surface to achieve optimum protection
- Some users have reported that the spray nozzle gets clogged and hence does not last as long as it should
Spray Max 2K Activated Epoxy Primer Black
Check out the price on Walmart.
It comes in a 13.5 Oz bottle and is an excellent premixed and ready-to-use epoxy primer. This inexpensive epoxy primer works on several surfaces and adheres very well. Adhering and curing take just 24 hours for a beautiful and nicely done surface.
Yes, you would need to sand it down if you want to apply a coat of paint to allow it to adhere better. While this comes already premixed and could be used directly as a spray, you could also mix it if
you have to fill holes. Once applied, you could add paint for a brighter finish
Pros👍
- It is very affordable as it comes at a very low price
- It can be used on several surfaces and still adhere strongly
- It comes in a spray bottle with a wider nozzle than most bottles. This makes application easier as you can apply directly by spraying instead of working a mix.
Cons👎
- It comes in a small bottle and is not enough for big jobs
- The consistency is very thin thus, you would need to apply a large amount to properly coat any surface.
- It cannot be stored in a hot environment because the pressure inside could bud up and cause the bottle to burst
Raptor Anti-Corrosive Epoxy Primer
Raptor epoxy primer is a highly effective 2K anti-corrosive primer that can be used on rusted surfaces. This is because it is built with a high salt resistant capacity making it usable across different surfaces. It comes in a spray bottle and with a hardener.
This high-performing epoxy primer has high adhesive properties and can adhere well to bare metals and makes inter-coating easier. It can be used over a large surface area compared to several epoxy primers.
Pros👍
- It is resistant to salt and hence is very resistant to corrosion. Thus it not just prevents rust but could also be used to stop rust on the applied surface
- This primer can be used over several surfaces such as metals, glass and even on rusted surfaces
- A big advantage is that paint coatis can be applied to it even while wet
Cons👎
- It requires the mixing of a hardener which must be mixed in a precise amount.
- The prices vary as they are priced by gallons and could be high
Speedokote Epoxy Fast Dry Primer and Sealer
Epoxy primer is an interesting option for use in spray guns. The primer comes in different sizes depending on your need to accommodate large and small surfaces. It can be used on surfaces such as steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. This epoxy comes with its hardener to be mixed usually in a 4:1 composition for the best results.
This primer has excellent finishing properties that can be used over worn surfaces to restore a perfect look. Speedokote epoxy also has sealing capabilities that make it perfect for closing cracks or flaws on surfaces. It comes in different colors and is easy to sand down both in its wet and dry state when applied.
You can check if the item is in stock here.
Pros
- The drying time is faster than many regular primers, about 10 minutes.
- It is versatile and can be used on many surfaces.
Cons
- When stored for a while, it can thicken and separate making it unusable
- It comes with a very thick consistency when mixed This texture makes the application a bit tactical
- Also, the thickness could clog spray guns if not cleaned immediately after use.
In The Swim Epoxy Primer
This durable primer is perfect for surfaces that are often in contact with water A common usage is in pools to seal off cracks and for resurfacing You would find this useful on numerous surfaces such as concrete, plaster, or fiberglass
The Swim works well by seeping into the interior surfaces to clog off cracks that might cause leaks. Working on damp surfaces is not a problem as the surface or pool can be prepared and worked on at once. Yes, just like other epoxy primers, the surface has to be prepared to allow proper adhesion
Pros👍
- It is ideal for damp surfaces
- It saves time as the surfaces can be painted within 48 hours of applying the primer
Cons👎
- A downside is that the primer might take too long to dry and remain tacky for a long time
You can check out the price of the item on Ebay.
FAQS
Can I paint over epoxy?
Yes, you can paint directly over epoxy. However, you have to prepare the surface of the epoxy usually through sanding to receive the paint well. Also, it is important to paint on the epoxy only when it is completely cured. This might take up to 7 days for the primer to cure completely.
How long can you leave epoxy primer before painting?
This depends on what you are using the primer for As an adhesive or sealant, the primer would sit indefinitely. Often the primer is usually sanded and left for about 7 days before painting. The sanding allows the coat of paint to adhere to it well.
What is the difference between epoxy primer and regular primer
Regular primers are used to cover scratches or blemishes on the surface. Epoxy primer on the other hand is much thicker and can be used as a non-porous sealer. With epoxy primers, you do not might not need more than one coat of paint and these extend the life of the paint on the surface
Does epoxy stop rust?
Yes, One big advantage of using epoxy is that it prevents and in some cases stops the rusts and corrosion. This is because many epoxy primers come with anti-rust properties that help bind the rust particles together. Notwithstanding proper preparation of the surface to be primed must be done.
