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What type of primer should be used on new drywall before applying latex paint?

Correct Answer

C) PVA (polyvinyl acetate) primer

PVA primer is specifically designed for new drywall as it seals the porous surface and provides proper adhesion for latex paint. It prevents the paint from being absorbed unevenly into the drywall.

Answer Options
A
Shellac-based primer
B
Oil-based primer
C
PVA (polyvinyl acetate) primer
D
Epoxy primer

Why This Is the Correct Answer

PVA (polyvinyl acetate) primer is specifically formulated for new drywall because it effectively seals the porous paper surface of drywall and the joint compound. This primer prevents uneven absorption of the topcoat paint, which would otherwise result in a blotchy appearance with varying sheen levels. PVA primer also provides excellent adhesion for latex paints and dries quickly, making it the industry standard for new drywall preparation. It's water-based, making it compatible with latex paint systems and easy to clean up.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

Option B: Oil-based primer

Shellac-based primers are primarily used for stain blocking and sealing problematic surfaces like knots in wood or water stains. They dry very quickly but are more expensive than necessary for new drywall and don't provide better performance than PVA primer for this application.

Option D: Epoxy primer

Epoxy primers are designed for high-performance applications like metal surfaces, concrete floors, or areas requiring chemical resistance. They are unnecessary and overly expensive for standard new drywall applications and may not provide optimal adhesion for latex paint.

Memory Technique

PVA = 'Perfect for Virgin Applications' - new drywall is a virgin surface that needs PVA primer's sealing properties.

Reference Hint

Florida Building Code, Chapter 14 - Interior Finishes, or painting specification sections in construction standards

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