Sikkens Alpha Primer

Which brush do I need?

Sikkens Alpha Primer is best applied with a mix fibre gold brush. This brush is specifically designed for water-based paints. These brushes ensure an even application of the primer and help prevent streaks and irregularities, resulting in a professional finish.

Which roller do I need?

Sikkens Alpha Primer is best applied with a wall paint roller suitable for water-based paints. Preferably choose a short-pile roller, such as a microfibre roller or a short-pile fleece roller (e.g., 8-12 mm). These rollers ensure an even application of the primer and help prevent streaks and irregularities, resulting in a professional finish. In our Paint Roller Blog, we have described which wall paint roller is best for your project.

When should I use this primer?

Use Sikkens Alpha Primer when painting a new or untreated wall, as this primer helps ensure excellent adhesion between the surface and the finishing coat. Sikkens Alpha Primer is also ideal for isolating light stains such as moisture marks, nicotine, and soot after thorough cleaning. This ensures an even finish and prevents stains from showing through the paint layer. If you are dealing with a porous or uneven surface, this primer helps reduce absorbency, contributing to better coverage and a more uniform paint finish.

When refurbishing an existing surface, using Sikkens Alpha Primer can help create a stable base for the new paint layer and ensure better adhesion. If you plan to finish your interior walls with Sikkens Alpha interior wall paints, using this primer ensures optimal compatibility and a durable, high-quality finish. Sikkens Alpha Primer is best used when you need a high-quality base coat for your interior walls, providing a durable and professional finish with excellent adhesion and isolating properties.

Benefits of Sikkens Alpha Primer

Sikkens Alpha Primer is a high-quality primer that offers numerous benefits for a professional and durable finish on your interior walls. One of the key benefits is the excellent adhesion it provides on various untreated surfaces, resulting in a long-lasting and consistent finish with the topcoat. Additionally, Sikkens Alpha Primer has isolating properties that are effective in isolating light stains such as moisture marks, nicotine, and soot after thorough cleaning. This ensures an even finish and prevents stains from showing through the paint layer. Moreover, the primer reduces the absorbency of the surface, contributing to better coverage and a more uniform paint finish.

What is the coverage per m²?

The coverage of Sikkens Alpha Primer is between 8 and 12 m² per litre, depending on the surface and application method. Keep in mind that the exact coverage may vary based on factors such as the porosity and roughness of the surface, as well as the thickness of the applied layer. It is recommended to test a small area on the specific surface to determine the exact coverage.

What are the drying times for this primer?

The drying times of Sikkens Alpha Primer depend on the temperature and humidity during application. At a temperature of 20°C and a relative humidity of 65%, the drying times are as follows:

1. Touch dry:

   The primer is touch dry after approximately 1 hour, meaning you can carefully touch the surface without paint sticking to your fingers.

2. Repaintable:

   After approximately 6 hours, the primer is repaintable, meaning you can apply the finishing coat at this time.

Keep in mind that drying times may vary depending on factors such as the thickness of the applied layer, the surface, and environmental conditions. In colder or more humid conditions, the drying time may be longer, while in warmer and drier conditions, the drying time may be shorter. Ensure you have enough paint to apply the primer to the surface.

Step-by-step guide

We have created a step-by-step guide to help you correctly apply Sikkens Alpha Primer to your interior walls.

1. Step 1: Preparation

   Ensure the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust, dirt, grease, and loose particles. Remove any old paint layers that do not adhere well, and repair any damage or unevenness in the surface if necessary. Cover floors and furniture with protective sheeting to avoid paint splatters.

2. Step 2: Stirring

   Thoroughly stir the Sikkens Alpha Primer with a paint mixer or wooden stirring stick until it achieves a homogenous consistency.

3. Step 3: Dilution (if necessary)

   If required, dilute the primer with water as directed on the packaging. Usually, the primer does not need to be diluted, but in some cases, adding a small amount of water can improve application.

4. Step 4: Application

   Use a brush or roller to evenly apply the primer to the surface. Work from top to bottom and from one corner to the other. Apply enough primer to ensure good coverage, but avoid applying a layer that is too thick, as this could cause drips or prolong drying times.

5. Step 5: Drying time

   Allow the primer to dry according to the recommended drying times. At 20°C and 65% relative humidity, the primer will be touch-dry in approximately 1 hour and can be painted over after 6 hours. Keep in mind that drying times may vary depending on environmental conditions, thickness of the applied layer, and the substrate.

6. Step 6: Finishing

   Check that the primer is completely dry and well-adhered before proceeding with the finishing coat. Apply the desired Sikkens Alpha interior wall paint in one or more coats as instructed on the packaging.

7. Step 7: Clean up

   Clean all used tools with water and soap, and store them for future use. Remove the protective sheeting and clean up any paint splatters.

   By following this step-by-step guide, you can apply Sikkens Alpha Primer properly and achieve a professional and lasting finish for your interior walls.