Painting over dark colours can be one of the most challenging tasks in any decorating project. Whether you’re refreshing a deep navy wall or covering a bold red feature, going from dark to light requires the right strategy—and the right primer. Without proper preparation, those darker shades will bleed through, requiring multiple coats of paint and resulting in a patchy, uneven finish.
At Nevis Paints, we understand how frustrating this can be. That’s why we always recommend using a quality primer specifically formulated for covering dark colours. With the right product, you can save time, reduce the number of topcoats needed, and achieve a vibrant, even result with less effort. For best results, pair it with our interior paint range designed to provide excellent coverage and a smooth finish.
Why Primer Is Essential for Covering Dark Colours
Dark paint colours are notoriously difficult to hide, especially if you’re switching to something lighter like white, cream, or pastel. Applying a light paint directly over a dark wall usually results in dull, uneven colour and visible streaks. Primer acts as a neutral base, helping block out the underlying pigment and allowing your new colour to shine through properly.
Here in the UK, where older homes often feature rich or dated colours, painting over dark tones is a common part of many home renovation projects. That’s why choosing the best primer for the job is key to getting professional-looking results.Top Features to Look For in a Primer
When selecting a primer, especially for covering dark or stained surfaces, it’s important to choose one with the right features to ensure a smooth, professional finish. Not all primers are formulated the same, so consider the following key qualities.
High opacity is essential. A primer with strong hiding power can effectively cover dark or bold colors in just one or two coats, saving both time and paint. This not only ensures even coverage but also prepares the surface for the topcoat more efficiently.
Look for a tintable base. Tintable primers can be shaded closer to the final paint color, which helps reduce the number of topcoats needed. This is particularly useful when transitioning from a dark to a lighter color, or vice versa.
Stain-blocking properties are another vital feature. A high-quality primer should be able to seal in water stains, smoke damage, or previous wall markings, preventing them from bleeding through the new paint.
Finally, a quick drying time is highly beneficial, especially when working under time constraints. A fast-drying primer allows you to move onto painting sooner, making the entire process faster and more convenient without compromising the final result.
Our Recommended Primers for Painting Over Dark Colours
At Nevis Paints, we’ve tested and reviewed a variety of primers suited to this exact challenge. Here are some of our top recommendations available across the UK:
1. High-Hiding Wall Primer
This type of primer is specially formulated for extreme colour changes. It features superior coverage, meaning fewer coats of paint are needed. Ideal for covering colours like burgundy, charcoal, or forest green.
2. Tintable Acrylic Primer
For a smoother colour transition, a tintable primer is a smart choice. You can have it tinted in-store to a lighter version of your final colour. This reduces the number of topcoats required and helps ensure colour accuracy.
3. Stain-Blocking Multi-Surface Primer
If you’re painting over walls with smoke stains, old water damage, or any imperfections in addition to dark paint, go with a stain-blocking option. It seals the surface and creates an ideal foundation for paint to adhere to evenly.
All of these options are available from Nevis Paints, where we prioritise quality and ease of use for DIYers and professionals alike.
Tips for Success When Using Primer Over Dark Colours
- Clean the surface first: Remove dust, grease, or old flaking paint to help the primer adhere.
- Use a roller with good coverage: A medium-pile roller helps spread primer evenly, especially on textured walls.
- Allow proper drying time: Even if the primer feels dry to the touch, follow the manufacturer’s recommended drying time before applying your topcoat.
With a bit of prep and the right primer, even the darkest walls can be transformed into bright, beautiful spaces.
Conclusion: Don’t Let Dark Paint Hold You Back
Covering dark paint may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right primer, you can save time, reduce the number of coats, and enjoy a cleaner, more vibrant result. Whether you’re lightening up a small space or tackling an entire home makeover, Nevis Paints has the tools and advice to help you succeed.
Visit Nevis Paints online or in-store to browse our full range of high-quality primers. Our team is always happy to help you find the perfect match for your project—because a flawless finish starts with the right foundation.
