Priming a Floor FAQ
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You may have many questions about the benefits of priming a floor. Do you really need to use a primer? Why? We answer those questions for you.
The ‘First Coat’ is also known as the ‘Primer Coat’
Both of our flooring systems, the Single-Pack System and the Two-Pack System, have a recommended first coat. This is also sometimes referred to as a primer coat, floor sealer or floor primer.
Why do I need to apply a primer sealer first coat?
We always recommend the use of a floor primer sealer rather than (i) using none or (ii) trying to cut the primer out by applying two coats of a top coat. Quite often, people will think that a priming and sealing the floor is overkill and that a topcoat can be used straight onto the substrate. This is simply not true. Priming and sealing a concrete floor prior to the application of floor paint is key to preparing for a long-lasting and therefore cost-effective finish.
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What is a floor paint primer and how does it work?
A primer, whether it is a single or two-pack primer, will dry with different properties to a top coat. A floor primer is a base coat which penetrates the surface of the substrate and acts as an anchor for the top coat. When priming a floor, the primer dries with a microscopically undulating surface i.e. it is bumpy, and gives the floor paint top-coat something to grip onto, creating a cross-link. The use of a primer ensures adhesion to the floor and a strong, long-lasting surface, when used in conjunction with a floor paint top-coat.
Can I use a first coat from a different floor-paint system?
When priming a floor, always use the correct first coat (primer) for each system. The single-pack flooring system is made using one type of resin and the two-pack flooring system is made using a different resin. The two are not compatible and will not bond. In other words, the if you use incompatible products, the top coat will simply sit on the surface of the first-coat (primer) leaving it prone to delamination or peeling.
Why can’t I choose the colour of the floor primer?
Our floor primers are purposefully produced as a non-standard colour. They are usually either a pinky-red or khaki-grey colour; sometimes other colours. The purpose of the floor primer is purely to seal the floor and act as an anchor for the topcoat. The primer is designed to be seen whilst applying the topcoat, so that the contractor can see the areas that have and haven’t been covered. Do not be alarmed by the colour of the primer.
Can I seal my floor with PVA?
Do NOT use PVA on the floor prior to applying any of our products.
We cannot stress strongly enough that PVA is a not compatible. Should you apply a Regal Paint product over PVA you risk delamination of the paint and non-adherence to the floor. PVA itself is only a temporary measure to seal dust. If you were to use it prior to priming a floor with our products, you would essentially be putting a temporary product onto the floor (the PVA) and then painting a semi-permanent coating over the top (Regal products). If you are painting a concrete floor, PVA will sit on the surface of the concrete and will act as a barrier between the concrete and the floor-system first coat. As the PVA is not durable, it will peel and will take the paint with it. Also, because our products are solvent based, they will react with the PVA and make a mess of your floor.
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