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Do I Need A Primer

Certain paint colors, especially bright yellows, greens, reds and oranges, as well as some darker accent colors, are considered “poor hiding” colors. That means, these colors are not good at hiding the color they’re covering, so they need a colored primer to be applied first. Please contact us to find out how to order.

Using a grey primer (under dark colors) or a tinted primer (under light “poor hiding“ colors) can help avoid the need for multiple coats of paint. ECOS colors that benefit from a colored primer are indicated in our color library (Fan Deck View) with a roller icon

Still trying to figure out if you need a primer? Click below to print a zig-zag patterned card you can use to test your paint sample.

PLEASE NOTE: this guidance relates only to the use of primers with specific colors. Primers are also required when painting repaired, or uneven surfaces, or bare substrates that have not previously been coated.

Questions? Contact our customer support team: 866-587-3586 or [email protected]

Painting Tips to Improve "Hide"

  • Choose a high-quality paint like ECOS
  • Stir paint thoroughly before painting
  • Don’t thin or dilute the paint with water
  • Combine multiple cans of the same color before painting
  • Spread the paint evenly and smoothly
  • Allow the full drying time between coats
  • Use high-quality brushes, rollers, and tools
  • Use the correct primer as described above, especially when painting porous surfaces

Paint Card Instructions

Apply a single coat of paint across the middle of the card, covering at least the area within the rectangle marked with ABCD. Once the paint has dried thoroughly, apply a second coat. If the zig-zag lines remain visible after you’ve applied the second coat of paint, we’d recommend a primer for your paint color.