Using different paint brands for primer/undercoat and top coat?

[Madelon]

We are just about to get the keys of our 100yr old queenslander and with that the huge internal (and external eventually...) painting job. I have a airless paint sprayer and done the numbers of paint liters needed (+/- 65 L per coat for walls and 25 L for ceilings). We will be repairing some cracks and wash/sand the walls before spray painting it all - there are multiple bright colours (blues pinks purples greens in the rooms...). I have choosen the colours and want to complete the topcoat with Dulux wash & wear.

But to save a few dollars, could I use the British Paint primer & undercoat for the first coat on walls and ceilings and then Dulux top coats? Or do you really need to use the same brand for best coverage?

Thanks!

[EricL]

Hello @Madelon 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about painting your home.

It is possible to use the British Paints White 4L Water Based 4 In 1 Prep Primer Sealer Undercoat as a primer and use Dulux Wash & Wear as a topcoat. However, the price difference between the British Paint Primer and the Dulux 4 in 1 primer is not that significant. From a quality and compatibility point of view, I propose investing in the Dulux 1Step Prep Primer, Sealer & Undercoat 4L. Using similarly branded products means that they have been tested together to produce the best possible quality. 

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Please remember to wear gloves, goggles and a paint rated mask when paint spraying.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[Madelon]

Thank you! You're right, it's only 2 dollars difference on 15 liters for the undercoat - but for one coat (65L) it's a $130... Like you said this comparable small investment will be worth it 👌. 

Another question; Do you recommend covering the already white (and very high) ceilings with an undercoat as well or go straight over it (after prep ofcourse with the Dulux ceiling paint (possibly two coats)? 

Thank you Madelon 

[MitchellMc]

Hi @Madelon,

Without more details about the condition of the ceiling paint, it's difficult to suggest whether it needs an undercoat. Undercoats are a good investment to ensure the paint sticks to the surface adequately. With newish paint, you don't need an undercoat when painting over it, but the older it gets, the more likely you need one to ensure everything binds well together.

Mitchell

[Madelon]

Thanks! It was painting last at least 20yrs ago... so I won't take the risk and will give the both walls and ceilings an undercoat. Rather playing it save than regretting not having it done right the first time 😀. Thanks for the sound advice!