Water based primer is usually used for walls and ceilings where there is new work and preparation is required, and oil based primer is primarily used for doors, windows, metal or woodwork.
That answer is also dependent on what surface you are working on. I would recommend an oil based primer on woodwork with a higher tannin percentage. Specifically exterior millwork like Cedar or Redwood. A water based primer is more appropriate for composites as opposed to real wood.
Painting is a popular and rewarding way to spruce up a room or outdoor space, but the fumes from oil-based paint primer can be dangerous. Some of the paint fumes' side effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and even more severe health problems.
Oil-based primers are ideal for painting wood and metal surfaces, as they seal porous surfaces and provide excellent adhesion.
Oil based primer is about as universal a product as exists. Latex, acrylic and alkyd regardless of sheen are all fine on top of it.
Latex Over Oil: Yes, with Proper Prep
On the other hand, you can use latex paint over oil-based primer, but proper preparation is essential. Before applying latex paint over oil-based primer, make sure to sand and clean the surface thoroughly.
When the oil-based primer is completely dry, the surface may still have a few small imperfections. This is typical even if you are a pro. The surface may feel chalky or even slightly rough. Using a Sanding Sponge, lightly sand the entire surface.
Although each surface and base color will be different, it's a safe bet that two coats of primer will achieve any priming goals you have.
Natural fiber roller covers made with mohair or a blend of polyester and lamb's wool are usually recommended for oil-based paints, varnishes and stains. Synthetic fiber roller covers, on the other hand, are most often recommended for applying latex paints.
CAN YOU USE OIL PAINT OVER WATER-BASED PAINT? Yes. In fact, this option works so much better than the opposite: painting with a water-based paint over an oil-based layer. This is quite common when you use primers to prepare a wall, cabinet doors, or trim for the final paint layer.
While primer is an important step, it's not always necessary. You don't need to use a primer if your paint project has all of these conditions: You're painting drywall surfaces that are smooth, clean, and don't need repair. Surfaces were previously painted with latex in a flat or eggshell finish.
Painting with oil based enamel paints is still a popular choice among painters because they produce a hard, glossy, and smooth finish once they have been dried. In this case, they make a great choice for high-traffic areas like doors, windows, and trim, since they are extremely durable.
Oil-Based Primers: Oil-based primers are highly durable and provide excellent adhesion to the cabinet surface. Additionally, they are great for sealing off any moisture or stains on the cabinet surface, which is crucial for preventing mould or mildew growth.
Water-based paints do not perform as well when applying paint in adverse weather conditions. Humidity and lower temperatures can extend drying times, whereas higher temperatures can cause the paint to dry too quickly.
Water-based primers are ideal for those with oily or combination skin. These hydrating primers offer a breathable canvas for your makeup. But here's the kicker—be sure to pair them with water-based foundations to avoid any messy mishaps like pilling or patchiness.
After priming, allow to dry 4 hours, test a small area for bleeding by applying the topcoat before painting the entire project. If the stain bleeds through, apply a second coat of primer and allow to dry overnight and retest before topcoating. Use Multi-Purpose Latex Primer over solvent sensitive stains.
Placing Latex Over the Oil Primer
Generally, two evenly applied layers of latex paint will be required over the primer. Allow between two and four hours for each layer to dry. A room will take approximately 16 hours of drying between the primer and two latex layers.
Natural bristle is the best choice for oil-based paints, varnishes, shellac, alkyd enamels, oil stains and oil-based polyurethanes. The highest quality bristles come from mainland China. Experienced, traditional painters will say there's nothing like the finish that a China bristle can provide for oil-based coatings.
Many painters “break in” a roller cover by priming it with water or thinner. In our lab we never prewet a cover before painting. If you choose to, you must spin it out with five or six strong pumps so it is only lightly damp. Then take even more moisture out by blotting the cover with a paper towel.
The general recommendation is to wait 1 to 4 hours before applying a topcoat after primer.
It's recommended to wait at least 24 hours before adding a coat of paint over your primer. Painting over it soon could cause your paint to adhere to the wall improperly, flaking and peeling.
Water based primer is usually used for walls and ceilings where there is new work and preparation is required, and oil based primer is primarily used for doors, windows, metal or woodwork. Enamel is hardier so surfaces that require heavy traffic or exposure to the elements are usually painted in enamel.
Can you paint over primer without sanding the car? Technically, yes, you can do that. Some circumstances don't require sanding the existing paint and primer before repainting. If you choose this route, the car's surface might show minimal damage like puncture holes, body scratches, dents, and cracks.
Once you've completed your last coat of primer, you should go ahead and sand before applying your first coat of base color. However, there is no reason at all to sand between coats of primer. It will only add more work to your plate with no visible benefits.
Most latex primers dry to the touch in 30 minutes to one hour. But for best results, don't paint until the primer completely dries—which can take up to 3 hours, depending on temperature and humidity. Once the primer is completely dry, it's prime time for painting.