How to primer the ceiling
Most users know that any apartment renovation starts from the ceiling, which must be primed before painting (with the exception of suspended or tension structures). Moreover, the primer material, which is a solution of a certain consistency, is usually applied to the ceiling in the form of a thin coating consisting of several layers. But before priming the ceiling, it is necessary to decide on the choice of a suitable primer for each case.
Note! The choice of primer depends not only on the type of ceiling, but also on the quality of its surface.
Types of primers
According to the method of application, all known primer mixtures are conventionally divided into the following classes:
- special purpose (deep penetrating compositions);
- the strengthening primers;
- general purpose formulations (leveling).

Deep penetration mixtures are used when it is necessary to reinforce the base of the ceiling, which has a porous structure (for example, gypsum cardboard ceilings). They are able to penetrate into the material to a depth of 0.3–2 cm and may contain special additives that prevent the spread of any fungal formations on the surface.
Note! Such mixtures are recommended to be used to protect the finished surface in any case (even if in the future it is supposed to be closed with decorative materials).
Reinforcing primers are used when additional reinforcement is required for repaired surfaces that are not rigid enough.

Well, leveling primer compositions are usually used in the presence of irregularities on the surface of up to 3 mm, allowing to reduce the consumption of materials used for finishing. As a rule, they are applied immediately before putty or painting the finished surface.
Note! The choice of one or another brand of primer mix depends on the type of coating used previously on the ceiling.
Priming procedure

As a confirmation of the considered classification of soil mixes, two examples are given below, which will make it possible to understand how different types of ceilings are properly primed:
- In the process of priming a concrete ceiling, a layer of deep penetration primer is first applied and after that you can use a special reinforcing compound (if necessary).
- When processing wooden ceilings, primers of leveling type are used primarily, which reduce the absorbing properties of wood and allow saving on painting. After this, special impregnation can be used to protect the ceiling from mold and rot.
The process of priming the shelf surfaces includes the following steps:
- trimming the ceiling;
- primer preparation;
- direct application and drying of the coating.

Consider each of these steps in more detail:
- At the preparatory stage of the work, the old whitewash, paint, wallpaper is removed, the ceiling is thoroughly washed and dried well. Then a wet cleaning is done in the room to prevent dust from entering the ceiling surface.
- Before you start applying your chosen primer, you need to prepare it for work. The finished liquid mixture is poured into a pre-prepared bath with a ribbed pad (dry powder is diluted according to the instructions of the instruction).
- The primer is applied to the ceiling in an even layer using a special elongated roller with a nozzle (in hard-to-reach places a small brush is used). Before applying the roller is first dipped in the finished composition, and then (to remove excess), rolled over a ribbed surface. The first layer of primer is applied in the chosen direction (from the door to the window, for example), and the second across the first one and only after it dries. Work should be in special protective clothing and glasses, precluding the ingress of the composition on the skin and eyes.
Drying the ceiling before painting (with large volumes of finishing work) is a mandatory procedure. To speed it up, you can use a regular household heater or a special air dryer installed in the center of the room.