Primer Surfacer vs Primer Sealer – How They Differ??
A primer surfacer is a form of urethane primer that is used to fix the damage and reinstate the factory coat. On the opposite, primer-sealers are transparent in color, and no pigment is presented in them. Usually, they are used to guard against UV radiation and paint deterioration. Before installing projects, primer should be applied to surfaces including wood, PVC, concrete, ceramic tiles, plaster, and metals like aluminum or steel. The primer performs a separate and crucial function in each of these locations. Hence, choosing the appropriate kind of primer might have a significant impact. So, let’s compare primer surfacer vs primer sealer in this article to assist you in selecting the right one for your upcoming projects.
What is a Primer?
A primer is a substance that is used to create other chemicals and materials. Primers serve as the initial coats that are applied directly to bare substrates.
They are applied to wood, canvas, or metal to prevent the absorption of layers below the paint or the formation of rust. It is used chiefly before painting, but it can also be used for other things. Binders are typically included in primers as an ingredient.
More importantly, the primer you intend to use must include binders that are compatible with the substrate. They also prevent moisture from penetrating the substrate.
There are different types of primers that vary according to the purpose and surface on which it is applied.
The primer surfacer and the primer sealer are primers that differ in purpose. There are 3 main types of primers available in the market that vary according to the surface to which they are applied on.
- Oil-based Primer – These primers work with both latex and oil paints.
- Latex Primer – Latex primer is a water-based acrylic primer that is used for plaster, drywall, masonry, etc.
- Shellac Primers – Shellac primers are used to cling to and mask away stains on problematic surfaces.
Primer Surfacer
The primer surfacer is a pre-coating that is applied to the surface before painting or in any other project to fix the damages or to adjust the surface better for the final outcome. Although it looks like paint, this substance serves to preserve the surface and serve as a foundation for better adhesion.
How Primer Surfacer is Used in Automotive and Industrial Applications?
The first coat of paint is Auto Primer surfacer. It has a rougher surface, allowing automobile owners to apply multiple levels of top coats. Car manufacturers use primer surfacers to reestablish old parts to the factory finish before priming them again with sealer primers.
Benefits of Using Primer Surfacer
Because primer surfacer has a higher adhesion than primer-sealer, it is preferable for car owners who want to paint their vehicles in different colors. Because car manufacturers use primer surfacers as an adhesive cover for old parts, car owners should only use surfacers if they intend to restore their old car parts to factory specifications.
Primer Surfacer is perfect for improving the adhesion of the topcoat and improving the color of the paint. This high build, sandable, and rust-resistant formula hides scratches and fills uneven surfaces when brushed or sprayed onto surfaces.
Primer Sealer
Primer sealers are commonly used to guard against Ultraviolet radiation and paint deterioration. And, primer sealer is commonly used by vehicle manufacturers who produce vehicles with a gloss finish or shiny paint. Primer sealers are used to make a porous surface to a non-porous. These products are also useful for concealing knots and mildew and preventing them from glowing through a finished coat. Typically, these are oil-based or consist of adhesive and reactive resins.
How Primer Sealer is Used in Automotive and Industrial Applications?
Primer sealer is used as the 2nd coat of paint to shield car exteriors from UV rays. It also improves the smooth texture and shine of the car’s exterior. When producing vehicles with clear layers or semi-glossy paint finishes, automobile manufacturers use a primer-sealer.
Benefits of Using Primer Sealer
Sealers are specialized primers used to recondition uneven surfaces so that a top coat can be applied evenly for a consistent finish. Prime sealers, in particular, work effectively on surfaces with cracks or holes filled in with putty. Also, primer sealers provide protection against UltraViolet Radiation rays. So, it helps to avoid color degradation.
Differences Between Primer Surfacer vs Primer Sealer
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Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Primer Surfacer and Primer Sealer
Primer sealers and primer surfacers are mostly used in the automotive industry. So, we will consider the factors related to that.
- Vehicle owners must determine if their vehicles’ exteriors are matte, glossy, or semi-glossy.
- If they plan to paint their cars yellow, red, or orange, a priming surfacer is an ideal choice.
- If you intend to modify the color of your automobile frequently and want it painted in semi-glossy hues, a primer sealer is recommended.
- Automobile owners who intend to paint their vehicles in matte or glossy paints could use either a surfacer or primer sealer, as long as the surface of the existing parts is adequately prepared before applying any primer.
- They should also inspect the car body for dents and scrapes before priming it. Small scratches on the car can be covered by both car primer surfacer and primer-sealer.
When to Use Primer Surfacer and When to Use Primer Sealer
Primer Surfacer?
If you’re doing minor body work and need to scrape or grind away a defect, it’s critical to preserve the area and ensure the paint will connect with the surface to prevent future rust or peeling. The only occasion you won’t require primer surface is if you’re not exposing any bare metal.
Primer Sealer
As the second layer of paint, a primer sealer is applied to protect car exteriors from UV radiation rays. It also improves the gloss and luster of a surface’s exterior.
To produce surfaces with clear coatings or semi-glossy paint finishes, you need to use a primer-sealer. While painting, for instance, it preserves the paint on the wood, improving the paint’s adhesion. Corrosion and oxidation are all prevented by applying on metal.
It helps in avoiding spots from forming and preventing humidity on plastered surfaces or concrete.
To use primer surfacer vs primer sealer, the following factors should consider in brief
- Nature of the surface
- Purpose of the using primer
- Adhesion of the primer with the surface
- Gaining the final product in a quality manner
In consideration, primer surfacer vs primer sealer could be used to prepare the surfaces for painting. They both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages that we must evaluate when deciding between the two. The main conclusion is that it all comes down to personal choice and the fact that various jobs require different sorts of primers.
Just Take A Look At This Video
Video Credits – Paint Society
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My name is James, I work as an Automotive Designer with 9 years of experience. I also work as a mechanic and vehicle inspector. I love deciphering complicated car exteriors and interiors and resolving fluid and oil troubles. InstaMotoring.com is here to help you troubleshoot your car with dependable and expert help.
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