What primer means
Primer is the first coat that seals the surface and gives paint something to grip. Different primers block stains, seal bare wood, bond to glossy surfaces or seal new drywall.
Also called undercoat, sealer.
Where it matters on a painting job
Skipping primer on new drywall, patches or stains shows through as flashing and bleed. List primer as its own coat on the estimate so the customer sees what they are paying for.
What it costs
The interior painting cost guide has the typical job at $1,600 and the usual range at $980 to $2,200. The guide shows its sources and what moves the price. The paint calculator prices a job line by line.
Work it out
- Free calculator: Paint calculator
- Cost guide: Interior painting cost
- Tools, templates and guides: Free painting resources