Can You Paint Latex Over Oil-Based Primer?

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Navigating the world of paints and primers can feel like a maze. Ever been stumped at the store, staring at countless cans, not sure which ones play nice together? Nobody wants to splash out on the wrong combo and get a disappointing wood finish as their reward.

Fear not! In this guide, I’ll tackle the burning question: can you really layer latex paint over an oil-based primer? Plus, I’ll throw in some golden nuggets of advice you won’t want to miss. 

What You Need to Know About Latex Paint

Latex paint is among the most popular options for homeowners and professionals alike. Produced in a water-based medium, they have colored pigments and synthetic polymers bound together.

The Brazilian rubber tree’s sap (also known as “latex rubber”) was originally utilized as a binder in the production of these paints, thus the name “latex.”

latex paint

Acrylic resin and Vinyl Styrene are the two most common plastic polymers used today for binders. Thus, you may come across items branded as “Acrylic latex paint” or “latex paint.”

What About Oil-Based Primers? + Why Use Them?

An oil-based primer is compatible with latex and oil-based paints. Since you can apply oil-based primers over latex paints, this expands their range of uses and surface compatibility. 

Additionally, primers made from oil-based materials can be effective stain killers. So fresh layers of oil paint are unaffected by previous stains.
 
Primers like these are ideal for indoor and outdoor bare wood because they seal the porous surfaces, allowing the new layer of paint to cover the whole surface virtually. In addition, they are great for:

Patching Stains and Discolorations

The material you’re painting may have wood grains and deep stains that, no matter how much effort you put into removing them, you won’t be able to get rid of. It could also have an unpleasant odor that spread across the room.

In such a situation, priming with oil before painting is highly recommended. The high hiding capabilities of oil primers prevent stains and odors from penetrating the paint for a longer period.

Patching Stains and Discolorations

Great for Coating Wood or Metals

Unfinished surfaces are more susceptible to water damage because they lack a protective layer like paint. A latex primer naturally has higher moisture content and can wreak havoc on wood and metal.

As a result, the best oil-based primers are the safest choice. After that, you can use any paint you wish as a finish coat.

Preparation for Oil-based Paint

It is always best to begin with oil-based primers when working with oil-based paints. In general, oil-based primer and paint work together because they share many commonalities. The finish will deteriorate more quickly if oil paint is used with different primers.

oil based primer

Shellac Primers

Shellac primers are recognized for their quick drying time, usually taking less than an hour to dry fully. You can prime surfaces with them much more quickly than with a latex primer. One drawback is that you’ll need denatured alcohol to dilute the primer and disinfect the equipment.

The odorless vapors released by the denatured alcohol [1] might not be pleasant to those with hypersensitive noses. Since shellac-based primers are the most effective when cutting or sealing the wood, you should still use your protective gear to keep the fumes at bay.

Reasons Why Oil Paints Do Not Mix

Oil paints don’t go together since they take so long to dry. They take a long time to cure compared to paints made with acrylic or latex. Also, you shouldn’t apply them on top of other paints because they don’t blend well.

For instance, oil and latex paints will result in damaged paint since the two paints dry at different rates.

painting separately

Although it is challenging to use latex paint over oil-based primers, the results are well worth the effort if done properly.

Why You Need to Apply Latex Paint Over Oil-Primer

Applying latex paint layer directly over oil-based primer has its benefits. But without priming the entire surface, the likelihood of paint cracking and not sticking well will increase.

Therefore, you must prepare the surface properly before you use latex paint. Doing so will yield excellent results in a durable and long-lasting painted surface. That includes using sandpaper to lightly sand the oil primer to create a flat surface on which the top latex paint layer can meld.

Here are the other advantages of using them together:

Speeds Up Painting Process

Oil-based paint and primer take quite a while to dry. If you use them together, brace yourself for a longer project time. Those extra drying hours can really add up!

Painting Furniture with Latex Paint

But if you use high quality latex paint over oil-based primer, it will shorten the time of projects without compromising durability.

Stronger and Smoother Surface

Anyone who works with latex paints knows they aren’t as long-lasting as oil paints, so they’re always thinking of new techniques to extend their useful life. 

A high-quality primer with a lower-quality topcoat will yield great results because primers determine the adhesion, durability, and strength.

Since oil primers are durable and offer better adhesion, they let the latex paint remain on the surface for longer and prevent surface imperfections.

Environment Friendliness

Oil-based products are infamous for their high amounts of VOCs—those pesky chemicals that hurt our environment. When you layer oil paint over an oil primer, it’s like piling on even more of those harmful vapors. 

Think of it this way: it’s not just bad for your space; it’s bad for our planet. Let’s be in the know and make wiser choices!

Cabot Australian Timber Oil paint test

Latex paints are also preferable to oil paints because they emit fewer harmful fumes.

How to Know if the Surface Has Been Coated With Oil-Based or Latex Paint

Never attempt to paint over an existing color without first identifying the paint you’re using. Understanding the type of paint you’ll use is crucial because it dictates how you prepare the surface.

Before starting new painting projects, read the paint label to know what type it is. However, if you will be painting over an existing paint requires you to identify the paint type, which can be done using an alcohol test. For the alcohol test, do these simple steps:

cleaning supplies

9 Steps to Paint Over Oil-Based Primer With Latex

Step #1: Prepare Your Work Area

Deep cleaning and organizing your work area is a prerequisite to priming surfaces. It is important to have a well-ventilated workspace to prime your surface, wear protective clothing to keep fumes at bay and crack windows and doors to allow air circulation.

Put on your mask, gloves, and coveralls before applying latex paint over an oil-based primer to shield yourself from toxins and harmful substances.

Breath Buddy Respirator Mask

To prime your surface, you’ll need a big, flat surface, preferably an unused part of the wall or ceiling that you can cover with plastic to keep dust from settling on the primed surfaces and have a smooth and lasting finish.

Step #2: Wipe the Surface Clean

Before painting, the surface must be well-cleaned. Primers will stick properly to clean surfaces without dirt, grease, pollutants, and grime.

For 30 minutes, soak the sticky surface in soapy water. Use a degreasing pre-paint cleanser of excellent quality if you need to do extensive cleaning before painting.

A pressure washer can speed up the cleaning process for large items of furniture or the exterior surfaces of your home. The area needs to dry before you can continue.

Step #3: Wipe Off the Old Paint

You’ll have to scrape off the old layer of oil-based paint. Remove any chips of paint, dust, filth, and grime chips with a wire brush accessory for your electric drill.

wiping old paint

Always wear safety goggles and masks before working with potentially dangerous substances like dust or chemicals.

Step #4: Sand

After scraping off any loose paint with a putty knife, sand the top coat of latex paint to eliminate any brush marks. Using sandpaper, rub the entire area in a circular motion.

Apply enough force in this sanding process for the sandpaper to enter the wood’s groves without tearing it. 

You should keep going; if you find any remaining shiny areas in the wood, you’ll need to eliminate them. Sanding dust can be removed with a damp tack cloth and then let dry.

After the coat has dried, you can paint over it by sanding the surface again, this time with fine grit sandpaper.

Miady 120 To 3000 Assorted Grit Sandpaper

Step #5: Spread the Primer Evenly

Use the primer as directed on the bottle. The latex can adhere to the oil because of the priming layer. Apply two thin layers of primer in quick succession, waiting for each coat to dry in between. Primer can be any color you like.

Step #6: Sand the Surface Again

Once you apply the primer, you’ll need to sand it down, so it’s flush with the wood. Any imperfections in the wood should be smoothed out using sandpaper with a 100-grit grade. Having the latex adhere effectively to the primer layer is a must.

Step #7: Apply the Paint

Then, apply a single coat using your favorite latex topcoat with an airless sprayer, roller, or brush, apply a single coat. You can never have too many layers, so don’t skimp! The process may require as many as five thin coats of paint over an oil primer.

You might want to check out: Applying Paint to MDF: Step-by-Step Guide

applying single coat

Step #8: Apply Sealing Coat

Finally, apply a good clear coat for wood to seal porous surfaces to extend the life of your paint job. When the latex has completely dried, you can seal it by rolling it on or brushing it on. Don’t be stingy with the paint; the more coats you put on, the longer your work will last.

Step #9: Allow it to Dry

Even if the first coat of latex paint is dry to the touch in an hour, you will have to wait four hours before applying a second coat. Don’t touch your finished project for at least 48 hours so it can dry.

Thin coats of oil paint could potentially shorten the drying period. To hasten drying time, use a thinner paint consistency. Using a fan, space heater, or hairdryer might also help.

air drying wood stain

Tips + Reminders for Painting Latex on Oil-Primed Surfaces

Primers made with oil might take up to eight hours to dry. To improve primer bonding, you may need to sand it slightly. It’s also important to clean the surface of any dust left behind from sanding and give it time to dry before painting.

The basic rule of thumb is to apply two coats of latex paint over an oil-based primer and give each coat two to four hours to dry completely after applying an oil-based primer.

Oil-Based or Water-Based Primer: Factors to Consider

Drying Process and Time

If you’re using a water-based primer, give it just about 30 minutes to an hour to set. But, if you’re working with an oil-based one, be patient and let it dry for at least four hours. Why the wait? Well, oils take their sweet time to dry up compared to water.

Durability

When dry, oil-based primers form a more solid layer that is difficult to scratch off, making them more durable than primers that are water-based. Though water-based primer is similarly long-lasting, it degrades more quickly under the same conditions as oil primers.

oil based primer

Adhesive Strength

Both primers improve paint adhesion, but oil-based primers are superior, especially when used with suitable paints. Water-based primers are highly flexible, as you can use them on various substrates.

Formula and Consistency

Water-based primers are easier to mix and apply since they are thinner than oil primers. And oil-based primers are thicker and better at covering surfaces with fewer coats and preventing bleed-throughs than their water-based counterparts.

How Long Will it Take for Oil-Based Primers to Dry?

Thickness

Since the primer’s solvent evaporates more quickly when applied to thin coatings, you can move on to the next coat more quickly. While thin layers dry quickly, the solvent in thick coats takes a long time to reach the surface, hence a longer drying period.

using oil based primer

Humidity

As the oil cannot evaporate in humid conditions, the primer remains sticky for a considerable time. A humidity of around 50% is ideal for priming, however, you should double-check with the brand’s recommendation to be sure.

Temperature and Ventilation

Oil primers dry faster in extreme temperatures. If the temperature drops, the oils won’t escape, and the primer will remain wet longer. Follow the product’s temperature requirements for perfect results.

Tips to Speed Up the Drying Process

Get an Oil Primer With a Faster Drying Time

Modern oil-based primers feature additives that speed up drying. Prioritize “Fast-Drying” primers while shopping.

Dry in a Well-ventilated and Less Humid Space

master dehumidifier

If your painting area is excessively humid, utilize a dehumidifier. If you don’t have a dehumidifier, prime it when it’s less humid.

my Top Latex Paint Recommendation: Rust-Oleum 1992502 Painter's Touch Latex Paint

Rustoleum Spray Paint

Painter’s Touch Semi-gloss Acrylic Latex Paint is good for metal, masonry, wood, plaster, and exterior and interior paint. It is the best latex paint pick because it’s non-toxic or has low VOCs. It dries in 30 minutes, and you may handle it in 1 hour. Drying time between coatings is 2-4 hours.

It applies easily and gives you a glossy surface with no brush strokes left behind. A single quart of this product can cover as much as 120 square feet. You won’t need to thin this paint unless you’re painting in extremely hot and dry weather.

Our Top Oil-Based Primer Recommendation:
Rust-Oleum 3554 Zinsser High Hide Cover Stain Primer and Sealer

Zinsser Primer

Zinsser Cover-Stain oil primer-sealer is excellent at covering up severe stains and preparing surfaces for subsequent coats of paint. 

It is ideal for cedar and redwood because it prevents tannins from soaking into paint finishes, rendering those woods unusable. You can also apply it to concrete and metal. Although this product dries in just an hour between applications, you should still leave it up to 24 hours to fully cure before painting over it.

You won’t need much of this primer because one quart is sufficient for covering a 100-square-foot area.

FAQ

What paint can I use on surfaces coated with an oil-based primer?

Latex paint is the finest option for covering an oil-based primer. Keep in mind that you cannot apply an oil-based paint over latex. Surface preparation is especially important if you plan to use latex paint over an oil-based primer. 

How do I choose between oil-based and water-based primers?

That depends on your intended application for each one. Primers made from oil have a foul stench but are useful for masking smells that water might otherwise carry. In contrast, water-based primers don’t contain oil and are simple to apply.

Can you use acrylic paint over oil-based primer?

Yes, because acrylic paint is compatible with an oil-based primer. You can use latex paint or acrylic to cover an oil-based primer, but acrylic is preferable. You can use a bonding primer before you use latex paint as a base coat.

How about oil-based primer over a surface painted with latex?

Primers made from oil are compatible with latex paint. Be cautious to sand and clean outside areas before applying the oil-based primer. If the surface is properly prepared, you may now swap between oil-based and latex primers.

Are oil-based primers safe?

The use of oil-based paints is safe. They pose no health risk. But prolonged exposure to VOCs might harm your body. Thus, you should probably use a respirator if you use a lot of oil-based paint.

Can I paint water-based paint over oil-based primer?

You can paint water-based paint over oil-based primer. Primers made of oil are universally compatible with topcoats of any kind, including water-based paints.

Conclusion

We hope our guide helped you with your general painting projects. Remember that you can paint latex over oil-based primer but the surface must be adequately prepared for the latex paint.

Sanding creates dust, so wipe it away and let the surface dry before painting. Then, use latex paint over oil primer and ensure each coat is done evenly.

robert headshot

Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.

Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.

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