Hi, Lettie.
I have walls I previously painted with Acrytex as the primer and Permacoat Latex as the topcoat. Can I repaint using Acrytex as primer again?
Thank you.
From,
Boysen User K
—
Hi to you too, Boysen User K.
There’s a short answer to your question. Nope, unfortunately, you cannot. A simple rule to keep in mind when repainting is to always follow paint compatibility.
Paint compatibility ensures that the elements in your project go well together and will not result in unwanted outcomes. This includes checking that all the products you use for your project are compatible. Use a primer that’s not compatible with your topcoat, for example, and you could end up with an unwanted adverse reaction.
It doesn’t stop there. Paint compatibility also includes making sure you apply the products you’ve chosen in the right order. Yes, you can use Acrytex as a primer and Permacoat Latex as a topcoat, even though the former is solvent-based and the latter is water-based. But—and this is important—you cannot go about it the other way around.
Typically, a water-based paint can be applied on top of a solvent-based paint. You cannot, however, apply them the other way around; such as in your case where you’re thinking of applying Acrytex over Permacoat Latex. This will cause a paint problem called saponification or kumukulong pintura.
You’ll notice saponification on your walls when the paint you’ve applied does not seem to dry. When you touch it, the paint will feel sticky or tacky even days after you’ve finished painting. You might even notice it as you’re painting—the paint you’ve just applied doesn’t seem to sit right or isn’t as smooth as it should be.
So, what should you do? If you would like to reprime your wall, you can use Boysen Permacoat Flat Latex B-701 White as primer followed by Boysen Permacoat Latex again, in any color and sheen you want, as your topcoat. These are both water-based products and can be applied on top of your existing paint.
Hope this helps and good luck!
Your painting partner,
Lettie
Need advice? Paint TechTalk with Lettie is here for you. Comment your painting question below or send an email to ask@myboysen.com.
