Primers can be water or oil-based and are used primarily to seal unpainted surfaces and prevent future coats soaking in. As such only one coat is usually required, however apply the paint liberally to ensure the entire surface is covered.

Tips for calculating amount of paint required

• 1 Litre of Primer covers approximately 11 SqM.
• This figure refers to one coat of paint only.
• If painting a round object, such as a fence post or bannister rail, calculate the object's width by measuring the length of a piece of string needed to wrap once around the thickest part. Multiply this figure by the length of the object to calculate the surface area.

Paint Calculator

Use the matrix below to help decide how many Litres of Primer paint you will need.

Further information and useful links

• Guide to paint
• Painting Tools & Tips
• More painting & decorating topics

• Find a Decorating Store near you