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Priming MDF with latex or oil?

17 years ago

Hi all:

In constructing a second story addition, two steel beams were installed in the ceiling of the kitchen (first floor). My contractor wrapped these beams in unprimed MDF. It's my job to paint, and I have read conflicting advice as to oil vs. latex primers. One website said Kilz Latex was perfectly fine, while another said that latex primers can cause the MDF to swell and therefore look.... junky?!? What have you all found?

Thanks,

Kim

p.s. any additional tips you want to give me would be way appreciated too!

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Comments (2)

Michael
17 years ago
I've always used BIN, alcohol based primer by Zinsser. I recommend that for best results on the initial step. After priming, 100% acrylic latex is fine.

If you want the cut edges to be smooth and uniform in appearance, coat the edges with a thin coat of drywall
compound or heavy spackle. Sand the compound smooth, then prime and paint.

Michael
0
kitnguye
Original Author
17 years ago
Thanks so much Michael. I actually used wood filler to coat the seams/edges. It's good to know I can use drywall compound as the wood filler is sticky and hard to work with.

Kim
0
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