When it comes to painting over oil-based paint, many people want to ensure that the new paint adheres well to the surface. This is because oil-based paint typically has a smooth finish, which can make it difficult for other types of paint to stick properly. In this guide, we’ll explore the best methods for successfully painting over oil-based paint—including the most effective primers to use and expert tips for achieving a flawless result.
How to Paint over Oil Based Paint
When oil-based paint dries, it becomes slippery and smooth. As a result, painting over oil-based paint with another paint becomes difficult. However, it is not impossible. It is essential to pay attention to the preparation steps when painting over oil-based paint. Here are the ways to paint over oil-based paint:
1-Transitional Primer
A transition primer is a type of primer that allows water-based paint to adhere to oil-based paint. That’s why using a transition primer is one of the best ways to paint over oil-based paint. Apply a coat of transition primer and let it dry for at least five hours. Then, apply two coats of water-based paint, waiting at least four hours between coats. A transition primer also helps cover dark colors. However, if a transition primer is not available in your area, consider the following alternatives.
2-Bonding Primer
A bonding primer is a specialized primer designed to adhere to difficult surfaces such as oil-based paint, glossy finishes, laminate, or metal. It creates a strong bond between the surface and the topcoat, eliminating the need for extensive sanding. Bonding primers work with both oil-based and water-based paints, making them a versatile choice for various projects. They provide an effective solution for painting over oil-based paint.
3-Glossy Surface Primer
A glossy surface primer is designed to help paint adhere to smooth, shiny surfaces like tile, glass, or high-gloss paint. It creates a strong base, allowing the paint to stick effectively without peeling. This primer eliminates the need for heavy sanding and works well with most types of paint. It is one of the alternative methods for painting over oil-based paint.
4-Sanding
Sanding creates a slightly rough texture on oil-based paint, helping water-based paint adhere better. However, to maintain a smooth finish, use fine-grit sandpaper. For larger areas, consider using a power sander.
How to Paint Over Oil Based Paint Without Sanding?
To paint over oil-based paint without sanding, use a bonding primer, transitional primer, or glossy surface primer. These primers create a strong bond between the oil-based paint and the new layer of paint, allowing you to skip the sanding step. Just clean the surface thoroughly before applying the primer, and follow up with your desired topcoat.
How To Paint Oil Based Paint Over Oil Based Paint
Generally, no primer is needed when applying oil-based paint over oil-based paint. You can paint directly over the oil-based paint with another layer of oil-based paint. However, this doesn’t mean the application won’t cause any issues.
If you’re painting oil-based paint over oil-based paint, you likely won’t encounter problems. However, if the oil-based paint has already been applied in too many layers or is dirty, you’ll need to use a synthetic primer. A synthetic primer is oil-based, making it the most suitable primer for painting oil-based paint over oil-based paint.
How to Apply Oil-Based Paint over Oil-Based Paint
There are 3 ways to make oil-based paint over oil-based paint.
- Paint directly with oil-based paint: You can apply oil-based paint directly over oil-based paint. If the paint is not too dirty and there haven’t been too many coats applied before, there is no problem with painting oil-based paint directly onto oil-based paint. However, it’s a good precaution to use the same brand of oil-based paint.
- Synthetic primer is an oil-based primer. The best way to paint oil-based paint over oil-based paint is by using a synthetic primer. This helps the oil-based paint adhere better and also assists in covering the old color. Apply one coat of synthetic primer 24 hours before painting oil-based paint over oil-based paint.
- Sand it: While oil-based paint can be applied directly over oil-based paint, fine sanding ensures better adhesion. Sand the surface lightly and wipe it with a dry cloth. Then, apply the oil-based paint over it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below, we have answered the most frequently asked questions about painting over oil-based paint. Feel free to ask any other questions in the comments section.
How to Paint over Oil Based Paint Without Sanding?
No matter what type of paint you paint over oil-based paint, it is best to use a primer before painting (except cellulosic paint).
Can You Paint Directly over Oil-Based Paint?
You can paint oil-based paint directly over oil-based paint. However, if you want to paint water-based paint, latex paint or acrylic paint over oil-based paint, you must sand or prime the surface.
What Paint Will Stick to Oil-Based Paint?
Oil-based paint sticks to oil-based paint. To apply other types of paint over oil-based paint, a primer is required.
What Happens if You Paint over Oil-Based Paint with Water-Based Paint?
The slippery surface of oil-based paint weakens the adhesion of the paint applied on it. For this reason, it is necessary to prepare the surface of oil-based paint by sanding or priming before painting with water-based paint.
Can I Paint Over Oil-Based Baint Without Primer?
If you plan to paint oil-based paint over oil-based paint, you do not need to use a primer. However, you should prime or sand latex water-based paint types before applying them over oil-based paint.
Do You Need Primer to Paint over Oil-Based Paint?
If you are going to paint oil-based, you will not need a primer. However, to paint latex and other water-based paints over oil-based paint, you should use a transitional primer or a general purpose primer.
Can you Paint Water-Based Paint Over Oil-Based Paint?
We do not recommend painting water-based paint directly over oil-based paint. Applying water-based paint directly over oil-based paint will cause the water-based paint to peel and crack. This can happen within a few hours, days, or weeks. “Related article: Oil based stain vs water based.”
