Paint planning

When Do You Need Primer and Extra Paint?

Primer and waste are where simple paint estimates usually go wrong, especially with stains, bare drywall, and dark color changes.

Use primer for bare drywall, patched areas, stains, smoke damage, raw wood, and big color changes. A self-priming paint can still need a dedicated primer when the surface is uneven or stained.

A 10 percent paint buffer is usually practical for roller loss, touch-ups, and small measuring mistakes. Raise the buffer when walls are textured, damaged, or broken into many small sections.

For the best color match, buy enough finish paint for the whole room at once and keep the label or formula for future touch-ups.