Prime the Staircase
From Anti-Slip Steps · Step 3 of 6 · Video by Benjamin Moore Paints
Showing 1:08–1:35 of the source video. Watch the full video with every moment.
What happens in this clip
Before starting to prime, keep in mind that you will need to avoid stepping on the stair surface until the product is fully dried. Plan your work schedule accordingly to ensure proper drying time and maintain access to other parts of your home if necessary. Next, apply Fresh Start High Hiding All-Purpose Primer to all surfaces you'll be painting. Begin at the top of the staircase and systematically work your way down. Use a small paintbrush for precise work on fine details and for cutting in along taped edges. A large paintbrush can be used for broader areas, while a paint roller is effective for priming spindles and handrails. After applying the primer, be sure to wait for it to fully dry according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding to the next coat.
Goal: Apply a base coat to all paintable surfaces
What's used
Tools
- large paintbrush Benjamin Moore
- paint roller
- small paintbrush Benjamin Moore
Materials
- Fresh Start High Hiding All-Purpose Primer Benjamin Moore
About the full video
This DIY project provides step-by-step instructions on how to transform a tired staircase with a fresh paint job. It covers everything from preparing the surface, priming, and applying multiple coats of paint to different staircase components like treads, risers, handrails, and spindles. The project emphasizes proper cleaning, sanding, and taping techniques for a professional finish and highlights specific Benjamin Moore products recommended for durability.
Step 3 of 6: Prime the Surface
Apply a high-quality exterior primer suitable for the step material (e.g., concrete or wood). Use a brush for edges and corners and a roller for larger flat areas. Ensure even coverage and allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This step is crucial for good paint adhesion and durability, especially if the steps are bare or have been sanded down to the base material.
Every video in Anti-Slip Steps
Step 1: Clean the Steps
- 3:28–4:20 Rinse and Dry Stairs
- 0:08–0:14 Clean Porch and Steps
- 0:19–0:32 Clean Outdoor Wooden Surfaces
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
- 0:07–0:09 Inspect and Scrape Loose Material
- 2:15–4:46 Surface Preparation and Grinding
- 4:46–6:13 Patch Concrete Imperfections
Step 3: Prime the Surface
- 3:11–4:18 Apply Oil-Based Primer
- 1:08–1:35 Prime the Staircase (this video)
- 0:35–1:12 Continue Priming Stairs
Step 4: Apply Anti-Slip Paint
- 0:26–0:28 Apply Anti-Skid Paint
- 0:01–0:09 Apply First Coat of Non-Slip Paint
- 0:08–0:24 Apply First Coat of Patio Paint
Step 5: Apply Second Coat of Paint
- 0:10–0:11 Apply Second Coat of Non-Slip Paint
- 0:01–0:09 Apply First Coat of Non-Slip Paint
- 0:26–0:28 Apply Anti-Skid Paint
Step 6: Clean Up
- 0:06 Clean Up
- 1:22–1:32 Clean Up and Dispose of Materials Properly
- 3:39–4:21 Clean Up As You Go
Questions about Anti-Slip Steps
Do I absolutely need a high-powered pressure washer for cleaning, or can I just scrub the steps manually?
While manual scrubbing with the Shurhold 6 in. Marine Mate Stiff Brush and Klean-Strip Liquid Concrete Degreaser is an option, a pressure washer like the Westinghouse WPX 3800 psi significantly enhances cleaning efficiency. It ensures the removal of embedded dirt, loose paint, and grime, creating a superior surface for the DAICH Textured Bonding Primer and BEHR PREMIUM anti-slip paint to adhere to, which is crucial for durability.
What are the most important safety precautions to take when using the pressure washer and chemical degreaser?
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, chemical-resistant gloves, and closed-toe shoes when operating the Westinghouse pressure washer or handling Klean-Strip Liquid Concrete Degreaser. Ensure adequate ventilation, especially in basement areas, and keep children and pets away from the work zone during chemical application and pressure washing to prevent accidental exposure.
Why does a 'beginner' project like anti-slip steps take two full days, and what factors might extend this timeframe?
The 2-day estimate accounts for crucial drying and curing times for each layer: degreasing, patching (with Quikrete or PC-Lumber Putty), priming, and applying two coats of BEHR PREMIUM anti-slip paint. High humidity, low temperatures, or extensive repairs that require longer setting times for patching compounds can all extend the project duration. Rushing these steps will compromise the final finish and durability.
What's the most common mistake DIYers make when applying anti-slip paint, and how can I avoid it?
The most common mistake is inadequate surface preparation, which leads to poor adhesion and premature peeling of the paint. To avoid this, thoroughly clean the steps with Klean-Strip Degreaser, pressure wash all debris, fill and sand all cracks and imperfections using Quikrete and PC-Lumber Putty, and apply DAICH Bonding Primer as directed. A clean, smooth, and primed surface is key to a long-lasting finish.
Can I use standard outdoor patio paint instead of the specific BEHR PREMIUM anti-slip paint listed?
While you could technically use other outdoor paints, the specified BEHR PREMIUM 1 gal. #420C-2 Textured Low-Lustre Enamel is designed with integrated anti-slip properties, significantly enhancing safety. Standard paints may become slick when wet or icy, defeating the primary purpose of this project. For optimal safety and durability, using the recommended anti-slip product is highly advised.
When should I use Quikrete Concrete Patching Compound versus PC-Lumber Putty Epoxy for repairs?
Use Quikrete 1 Qt. Concrete Patching Compound for larger cracks, spalls, and uneven areas in concrete steps, as it's formulated for robust concrete repair. PC Products 2 oz. PC-Lumber Putty Epoxy is best suited for smaller chips, divots, or repairing wooden step components where strong adhesion and sandability are required. Always ensure patches are fully cured and sanded smooth before priming.
Anti-Slip Steps
This project involves preparing and painting outdoor or basement steps with anti-slip porch paint to improve safety and durability.
Read the full guide Browse all guides
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