When it comes to painting your porch or floor, using the right paint and prep work is key to achieving a long-lasting and durable finish. Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel is a popular choice for exterior and interior floors due to its durability and glossy finish. However, there is some debate around whether or not primer is required prior to applying this enamel. In this article, we’ll take a close look at Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel, when primer is needed, what types of primer work best, and tips for proper prep and application.
Overview of Sherwin-Williams Porch and Floor Enamel
Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel is an oil-based alkyd enamel paint designed for use on exterior and interior surfaces like concrete, wood, metal and masonry floors. It provides a hard, glossy and weather-resistant finish that stands up well to foot traffic and exposure to the elements.
Here are some key features and benefits of Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel:
- Oil-based formula provides a durable, abrasion-resistant finish
- Excellent adhesion to properly prepared surfaces
- Glossy finish enhances visibility of surface imperfections
- Withstands weathering, scuffing and pedestrian traffic
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Can be used for both exterior and interior floors
This enamel paint provides good protection and is fairly easy to apply by brush, roller or airless sprayer. Proper surface prep and priming is important for best results.
When Primer is Required
In general, Sherwin-Williams recommends using an oil-based primer when applying their porch and floor enamel. However, primer may not be absolutely necessary in every situation. Here are some guidelines on when primer is required:
On New, Unpainted Surfaces
For new exterior wood, concrete, masonry or metal that has never been painted, an oil-based primer is highly recommended before applying the porch and floor enamel. The primer will seal the bare surface and provide enhanced adhesion for the enamel topcoat.
On Previously Painted Surfaces
If repainting a surface that already has an existing coating of enamel or another paint, priming first is usually not mandatory. You can prep the surface by cleaning, light sanding and spot priming as needed before applying the fresh enamel coat. However, if the existing paint is old, peeling or doesn’t adhere well, apply a full oil-based primer coat.
On Treated Wood Surfaces
Wood that has been pressure treated with preservatives like creosote or CCA contains chemicals that can interfere with proper paint adhesion. An oil-based primer designed for treated wood provides an isolation barrier so the enamel topcoat sticks well.
When Switching from Latex to Oil-Based Paint
If you are painting over a previous coating of latex or water-based paint, it’s very important to use an oil-based primer before applying the oil-based porch and floor enamel. This prevents peeling or delamination between the layers.
On Surfaces with Stains, Rust, Grease, etc.
For surfaces that are stained with grease, oil, rust or have other types of deep-set contamination, primer helps block these issues so they don’t bleed through the finish. Use the appropriate stain-blocking primer for best results.
So in summary, primer is always recommended on new, untreated surfaces, when changing paint types, or when painting over stains or problem areas. On previously painted surfaces in good condition, primer may not be mandatory but can still provide added protection. When in doubt, it’s better to be safe and prime first.
Recommended Primers
If you do decide to use a primer, Sherwin-Williams recommends their own oil-based options designed to pair well with the porch and floor enamel:
| Primer Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Exterior Wood Primer | Provides maximum adhesion to exterior wood surfaces |
| Concrete and Masonry Primer | For priming concrete, stucco, brick and block prior to painting |
| Metal Primer | Sticks well to galvanized metal, aluminum, iron, etc. |
| All Surface Enamel Undercoater | An oil-based primer suitable for multiple surface types |
These are all high-quality primers that work excellently with the porch and floor enamel. Some other oil-based primers also work well, such as Zinsser Cover Stain or Rustoleum Professional Primer. Make sure to choose the right primer for your specific surface type.
Prep Work and Application
Proper prep work before painting is crucial for getting great results with Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel. Here are some top tips:
Surface Prep
– The surface must be entirely clean and free of dirt, grease, oil, wax and other contaminants that can interfere with paint adhesion. Wash with a degreaser if needed.
– Remove any loose, cracked or peeling existing paint by scraping, sanding, wire brushing, etc.
– Sand glossy surfaces to dull the sheen and allow for better enamel adhesion.
– Repair any holes, cracks, joints or other damage.
– Allow freshly poured concrete or masonry to cure for at least 30 days before painting.
Priming
– If priming, apply an even coat according to the manufacturer’s directions. Allow primer to fully dry before painting.
– Spot prime any repaired areas, knots in wood, etc. with an appropriate primer.
Paint Application
– Stir the enamel thoroughly before and periodically during use to prevent settling.
– For best durability, apply two or three medium coats rather than one heavy coat.
– Use a high-quality natural bristle brush, roller with 1/4”-3/8” nap, or airless sprayer.
– Maintain a wet edge and avoid lap marks by brushing/rolling into previously painted areas.
– Allow at least 24 hours between coats and 72 hours for full cure before heavy use.
Maintenance and Recoating
With proper prep and application, Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel provides long-lasting protection for outdoor and indoor floors. However, all surfaces require periodic maintenance and touch-ups:
– Sweep or mop floors regularly to prevent buildup of dirt and debris than can wear down the coating.
– Place mats at entryways to reduce tracking of grit, sand and moisture.
– Periodically check for areas of thinned or worn paint and spot repaint as needed.
– If recoating the entire surface after several years, lightly sand to improve adhesion then clean and apply fresh enamel.
– Avoid chemical cleaners and detergents which can break down paint over time.
By providing your porch, patio, basement floor or garage with a tough, glossy coating of Sherwin-Williams enamel, you can keep it looking great and protected from heavy use for many years. Paying attention to proper priming and prep work will help ensure you achieve the very best results. Your investment of time and care will pay off in a durable, appealing finish that withstands the elements.
Conclusion
In summary:
– Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel is a versatile, durable oil-based paint designed for use on exterior and interior floors.
– Oil-based primer is recommended before applying the enamel on new, untreated surfaces and when painting over existing coatings in poor condition. This enhances adhesion and durability.
– Proper prep including cleaning, light sanding and repairing any damage is crucial prior to priming and painting.
– Apply the enamel in several medium coats using proper brushing, rolling or spraying technique to build up a resilient finish.
– Regular maintenance like sweeping and spot recoating of worn areas will keep your painted floors looking their best.
So take the time to properly prep surfaces and prime when needed, and Sherwin-Williams porch and floor enamel will deliver long-lasting beauty and protection for all your exterior and interior flooring surfaces. The results will be worth the effort!