Pohjamaalattu

Pohjamaalattu is a Finnish term describing a surface that has been coated with a pohjamaali (primer) prior to applying a finish coat. The primer improves adhesion, seals porosity, blocks stains, and helps achieve a uniform appearance for the topcoat.

Primers are formulated for different substrates, such as wood, metal, plaster, or masonry, and they come in water-based, oil-based, or shellac-based variants. A pohjamaalattu surface tends to absorb subsequent paint more evenly, reduces paint consumption, and can prevent tannin or resin bleed from wood.

Application is performed after surface preparation: cleaning, drying, and light sanding. Depending on the material and product, one or more coats may be applied, with light sanding between coats as recommended. Drying times vary with product and environment.

Choosing the right primer and ensuring compatibility with the topcoat are essential. Some primers are tinted to control the final color, while others are white or gray. In exterior applications, considerations include weather resistance and mildew resistance; in interiors, odor and VOC content may be relevant.

After priming, the surface is considered pohjamaalattu and ready for the finishing paint. The term does not indicate a final color or finish; it denotes the preparatory coating stage.