Why Primer Matters
Many installers focus primarily on selecting the right wallpaper adhesive, but a successful installation starts long before the adhesive is applied. Proper surface preparation is essential to achieving a durable, professional finish.
A high-quality primer creates the ideal foundation by improving the condition of the substrate and ensuring optimal adhesion. It helps create a more uniform surface, reduces the risk of installation issues and enhances the long-term performance of both the adhesive and the wallcovering.

Using the right primer can help you:
- Improve adhesive bonding
- Create a smooth and uniform substrate
- Regulate surface absorbency
- Reduce the risk of bubbles, lifting and seam failure
- Increase the durability of the wallcovering installation
- Achieve more consistent professional results
Whether you’re working on new drywall, renovating existing walls or preparing challenging non-porous surfaces, selecting the appropriate primer is one of the most important steps in ensuring a successful wallcovering installation.
| Project Type | Recommended Primer | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Old or porous walls | PRIMER STO-B | High-build white acrylic primer that consolidates absorbent surfaces and creates a uniform base before wallpaper or paint application. |
| Non-porous surfaces | PRIMER STO-R | Adhesion-promoting primer that dries with a permanent tack, providing excellent bonding on sealed or non-porous substrates. |
| Damp walls with mold risk | PRIMER STO-SP |
Mold & mildew resistant acrylic primer designed to protect walls in high-humidity environments while creating the ideal surface for long-lasting wallpaper installations. |