When it comes to auto body repair and painting, using the right primer is essential. Generally speaking, primers serve two primary purposes: ensuring proper adhesion to bare metal and creating a smooth, level surface for the final paint job. Understanding the different types of primers and their applications is essential for achieving a professional-quality finish.
Why are Automotive Primers Important?
Automotive primer helps new paint adhere to bare metal. Your paint needs to bond effectively to your car to ensure a perfect paint job that stands the test of time. Without primer, your car will be more susceptible to peeling, flaking, and other flaws in your paint job.
Several automotive primers exist, each with unique benefits that make them well-suited for specific jobs and applications. In the next section, we’ll break down some popular types of automotive primers.
Types of Primers
Depending on your project, you might need a specific kind of automotive primer. At CAPS, we carry epoxy, etch, and high-build primers. We also have both primer spray paints and lacquers. Keep reading to learn what type of primer is right for you.
Acid Etch Primer
This type of primer contains acid, which provides corrosion resistance and promotes adhesion to bare metal. It is suitable for small spots. For larger areas, epoxy primer is generally preferred. Etching primer typically needs to be sanded before applying a high-build primer. This type of primer is low-build, meaning it should be paired with a high-build primer to fill any scratches, dents, or areas with an uneven surface.
Ideal for: Adhesion to bare metal in small areas.
Epoxy Primer
Epoxy primer contains zinc phosphate, which enables it to adhere to bare metal. It is a non-sanding primer, meaning a high-build primer can be applied directly on top after the recommended drying time. Epoxy primer can also be used on a complete car in bare metal, and body filler can be applied over it. However, if left for an extended period, it may need to be scuffed for better adhesion. Epoxy primer is excellent for corrosion resistance and adhesion to metal.
Ideal for: Corrosion protection and superior adhesion large projects.
High-Build Primer
This type of primer is used to level surfaces, especially after bodywork. It is applied after the initial primer for bare metal and creates a uniform base for block sanding. Typically thicker than normal primers, a high-build primer is critical for achieving a smooth and level surface. Remember that high-build primers do not offer much corrosion resistance, which is why they should be paired with an epoxy or acid-etch primer.
Ideal for: Leveling surfaces, filling surface scratches, and layering on top of other primers.
CAPS: Your Source for Automotive Primer, Paint, and More
Are you still unsure which automotive primer is right for you? Chat with one of our experienced team members about your project, and we can give you a personalized recommendation based on your project. Visit our website or one of our locations for more information.