One cannot stress enough how important it is to apply at least one coat of primer before applying paint. If you ever looked at a wall or any other surfaces with a leveled and smooth finish and wondered the reason behind such a professional look, then it is probably because of the use of both paint and primer. Then came in the market paint and primer in one.
One must believe what is better than having a product that has the virtues of both a paint and a primer. Unfortunately, it is not always the best choice.
It is so because these are not very efficient in hiding stains or old paint of different colors. Still, using primer and paint in one is beneficial when you need to repaint a surface with a similar color again.
As this product cannot be used for all painting purposes thus, it becomes even more crucial that you have the best paint and primer in one which is perfect for you as no matter how easy it is to apply, if you use the wrong one, then you will need to do the entire process again.
If you are looking for a paint and prime in one and need some assistance, this article might be useful.
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Table of Contents
5 Best Paint And Primer In One Reviews
1. The Spruce Best Home by KILZ Paint With Primer for Interior, Calming Gray, Semi Gloss, 1 Gallon – Top Pick
It can be hard to find different colors than gray, white, and black in primer and paint in one, but that is not a problem with this product by KILZ.
The top on our list has to be the Spruce Best Home paint plus primer. It is from one of the leading paint brands, KILZ.
If you are looking for paint or primers, it is highly probable that you will come across the brand KILZ.
Manufactured with experience of over forty years, its products are best-in-class and known for their reliability.
Technical features and performance
This has the best variety of unique colors from persimmon orange to unique teal or from spectral blue to black with overall 32 colors.
If you want the decorative color to make the interior of your house more elegant and modern, then this is the paint plus primer you would want to choose. Also, It is mostly fragrance-free.
Semi-gloss, matte, and eggshell are the kind of finish you can choose from, while the drying time is barely two hours.
Each gallon of a spruce best home can be used to coat an area of 250-400 square feet. This is water-based paint, and hence, it can be cleaned using only soap and water.
Is this product recommended?
Almost every buyer stated that this the best paint primer they have ever used. With its almost buttery texture and proper thickness, it was easy to spread and apply.
The color precision is also fantastic, and the high quality has won the appreciation of numerous customers. The buyers highly recommend this product to others.
Pros
- Great coverage.
- Outstanding texture and consistency.
- Worth the price.
- Available in a multitude of colors.
Cons
- More than one coating may be required.
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2. Glidden Interior Paint + Primer: Gray/Elephant Gray, One Coat, Semi-Gloss, 1-Gallon – Best Price
This primer and paint in one by Gilden are reputed for their stain hiding quality, which is quite rare to find in such products.
Available in black and multiple other shades of gray, this offers a color accuracy like no other.
The budget-friendly primer plus paint is easy to apply with the proper tools, even for inexperienced people and hence, saving the money of hiring a professional. Therefore, making it a great choice.
Technical features and performance
One gallon of this paint plus primer will cover an area of roughly four hundred square feet. You can choose any color from the nineteen that it is available in. one of its special attributes is its stain covering capacity.
It can cover light to mild stains on the surface in lesser coats compared to other products. Besides that, you can choose matte, eggshell, or semi-gloss finish as per your demands.
When applied using a 2.5-inch brush or roller on a dry and clean surface, the finish will be leveled and professional-looking. It will cure in around seventy-two hours.
With its negligible odor, you will find it less challenging to work with. Also, once dried up, you can simply clean it with soap and water.
Is this product recommended?
With the outstanding performance and result that this primer plus paint delivers, it is one of the favourite of the customers.
It is delivered in secure, leak-free packaging and works perfectly, as stated by the users. It rejuvenates life in dull walls, whether old or new. Thus, the user would recommend it to others.
Pros
- The price is reasonable.
- Extremely simple to clean.
- Offers great durability.
- Precise color finish.
Cons
- The package is difficult to open.
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3. Prestige Interior Paint and Primer in One, Dove Gray, Semi-Gloss, 1 Gallon – Best Moisture-Sealer
Third, on our list is the interior paint by Prestige. Prestige is one of the trustworthy paint manufacturing brands.
They produce a wide variety of paints, primers, and paint plus primers with the motive to make painting jobs simpler for their customers.
This paint with primer are sold in an amazing number of over forty hues of grey. They are available both for exterior and interior purposes.
With good reliability, it also has a premium finish and thus, making it one of their best products.
Technical features and performance
This paint contains very low VOCs, and hence, the odor it has is almost insignificant. It is available in all four finishes, matte, semi-gloss, eggshell, and satin.
Depending on the place you are painting on, you can choose any one of them. This paint is suitable for anywhere around the house. One gallon of this paint and primer and can cover around 325 square feet.
Make sure that the surface is completely clean and has no imperfections. It will completely cure in four hours. This will provide a finish that is durable due to its moisture-sealing capacity.
One does not require special products to clean the surface with this coat and can just use warm water and a non-scratching brush.
Is this product recommended?
There is no doubt that this is a paint plus primer whose performance has impressed many customers. The resultant color looks warm and beautiful.
Some users did not even need to apply a second coat of this paint due to its high-grade quality. Most people are satisfied by its finish and suggest it to others.
Pros
- Good thickness.
- Pretty simple to apply.
- Finishing is praiseworthy.
- Mildew resistance.
Cons
- The color is not always accurate.
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4. KILZ TRIBUTE Paint and Primer in One, Interior Matte, 1 Gallon, Tender Shoots (TB-71) – Best color Precision
Yet another versatile paint plus primer by KILZ, this can be applied on previously painted or unpainted surfaces like drywall, concrete and more.
Similar to Spruce Best Home, this is also present in some unique colors like vintage green, American pine, and others.
It is made using the latest technology to make it resistant to stains and is reliable.
This an acrylic paint, and thus, it is also simple to clean compared to other oil-based coverings. Thus, making it one of the best primer paint.
Technical features and performance
One special feature of the paints and primers by KILZ is that they have a very limited amount of VOCs. Thus, they do not release a lot of toxic chemicals into the air and are safer to use. This paint plus primer is available in four sheens or finishes: matte, eggshell, semi-gloss, and satin.
Once completely dried, it will not peel or scrape easily. You can use a brush to clean it along with soap water without worrying about abrasions.
The area one gallon of this paint and primer in one can cover is approximately four-hundred square feet. It cures completely within a couple of hours of applying. Moreover, this will protect the surface from the deteriorating effects of mildew and mold. Hence, making it long-lasting.
Is this product recommended?
As the feedback of customers suggests, this paint and primer in one give a smooth and velvety finish and rich colors. It worked out just as promised. Moreover, it was relatively easy to apply. Therefore, the buyers would advise others to invest in this product as well.
Pros
- Brilliant color precision.
- Moisture-blocking virtue.
- Easy to apply and use.
Cons
- It is overpriced.
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5. Prestige Interior Paint and Primer in One, Cozy Sweater, Semi-Gloss, 1 Gallon – Most Easy to Clean
Another paint plus primer by Prestige, this primer plus paint comes in different warm shades of blue like misty night, ocean surf, electric plum, and many more. It is ideal for most interior work.
On the proper application of this primer and paint in one, the finish is polished and without any unevenness.
It can be applied using a ⅜ inches roller or brush of your choice. Moreover, you can even use these in bathrooms, laundry, or other places where they are exposed to moisture due to its moisture-sealing feature.
Technical features and performance
Prestige paint and primer in one has only 5 grams per liter of VOCs, which is a small quantity, and thus, it hardly has any odor.
Stir well before use to get an even color throughout and proper consistency. Moreover, it is quick to dry. After one hour of applying, it is ready to recoat. After 14 days of application, it can be cleaned using a soft brush.
There are four sheens of this product, eggshell, satin, gloss-free, and matte, while the coverage is 325 square feet.
There are different versions of this paint made especially for exterior or interior purposes. It is an acrylic paint plus primer in one, and thus, one can expect it to be quite durable.
Is this product recommended?
It may be last on the list, but its performance is better than many other paint plus primers that are available in the market.
As per the customers, the thickness of the paint was just right, making it simple to spread around. Therefore, it is a recommended product.
Pros
- Moisture-sealing primer plus paint.
- Wide coverage.
- Low amount of VOCs.
- Easy to clean with just soap and water.
Cons
- It may peel off.
- More than one layer may be required.
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Buyer’s Guide
In this section of the article, you will find the key factors which are necessary to keep in mind while buying paint and primer in one. These factors are there to help you find a product that is fit for your requirements.
1. Coverage
Every paint and primer in one will only cover a limited area. The area a product will cover will be mentioned in its specifications. The area it covers will depend on its thickness. You have to make sure that the product you are buying has the right coverage according to the space you are planning to paint.
You might even need to coat a surface more than once, and hence, the coverage will decrease. Thus, you will be required to buy more than one unit of the product. So, do check that you have the paint as per the area you need to cover.
2. Color
Primer and paint in one come in a variety of colors, from simple gray to red. You might be tempted to buy the most unique and decorative color. Unfortunately, you cannot just choose any color. Primer and paint in one are not very effective in covering up stains, paint on old surfaces, or the original color of the surface.
The stains will be clearly visible even if you apply more than one coat of the product. Consequently, you need to choose a color that is the same shade as the surface unless you are applying a separate primer coat before using a primer and paint in one.
3. Finish Type
There are mainly four types of finish available in primer and paint in one: matte, semi-gloss, eggshell, and satin. These finishes are not only different in appearance but also have different properties. Thus, you cannot select a finish type just on the basis of looks.
Matte, commonly referred to as flat, provides a shine-free and leveled finish. These have the maximum coverage out of the four and are recommended for fixing nail holes or other unevenness on the surface.
Semi-gloss, as the name suggests, is a shiny finish. It is known for its resistance against moisture and stains. Hence, saving the surface from the damage caused by mildew or mold.
Eggshell lies somewhere between semi-gloss and matte. An eggshell finish is glossier and durable than matte but less than semi-gloss.
Satin is a highly dependable and shiny paint finish. Due to its velvety and smooth texture, it is pretty simple to clean. It is widely used in interior surfaces. The type of finish you should choose depends on what virtues you want in your paint, whether durability, luster, or ability to fix imperfections.
Also, not every color or brand will offer every finish. Thus, you will also have to check whether the color you want is even available in the kind of finish you would like to have.
4. Cure Time
Cure time is the total time that a primer and paint in one takes to dry up entirely before exposing it to foot traffic. Make sure that you know the cure time of the product you are using so that you give enough time for the paint to dry for the best results. Thus, do check the cure time before selecting the primer and paint in one.
5. Price
There are hundreds of primers and paint in one present in the market, and it can be hard to decide which one is worthy of its price.
You do not need to invest in an expensive one to get the result you want. You can easily find a primer and paint in one which offers more at a lower price if you do sufficient research.
First, be sure what attributes you want in your product, for instance, mildew-resistance or shine. After that compare different brands which offer the same features.
Analyze the reviews to ensure that whether the performance is as good as advertised. This will assist you in identifying the products which offer great value for their price. Then you can buy the one which fits your budget.
When to Use Self-Priming Paint?
When you need both a paint and primer in one product, look for a self-priming paint. These are ideal for new construction projects or when making significant changes to the appearance of your home. Here are some tips on when to use self-priming paint to get the best results.
1. Re-painting
When it’s time to repaint a room or a piece of furniture, you might be wondering if you should use self-priming paint. Here are some things to consider when making your decision.
Self-priming paint can be a great time-saver, since you don’t have to apply a separate primer before painting. It can also be a good choice if you’re painting over a dark color, since it will help to cover up any underlying colors more effectively.
2. Drywall
you want to paint new, unfinished drywall without priming it, why not consider trying self-priming paint? You just have to prime drywall in some form or another before painting it. However, if you don’t want to use a traditional primer, consider using self-priming paint instead.
Self-priming paint is a newer product on the market that is designed to adhere to surfaces without the need for a separate primer. This can save you time and money since you won’t have to buy or apply a separate primer before painting.
3. Interiors
Self-priming paint is ideal for use in high traffic areas, such as hallways and kitchens, where durability is important. It can also be used on new construction projects or when painting over bare drywall or wood. When selecting a self-priming paint, be sure to choose one that is specifically designed for the type of surface you are painting.
Will Paint and Primer in One Save Money?
Self-priming paint is a type of paint that can be used without a separate primer. It is often used on new construction projects because it can help save time and money. There are some situations when self-priming paint is not the best option, however.
If you are painting over an existing paint job, for example, self-priming paint may not adhere well to the surface. In this case, it is best to use a traditional primer before painting.
When NOT to Use Primer (and When You Must)?
In some cases, you might not have to paint and prime all your surfaces with any primer or paint in a single step in one or several cases. Ideally, all surfaces should be patched, primed, and then painted twice, but since that is a realistically unattainable goal, you may be able to omit priming.
Clean, dry, and dehumidifier-prone surfaces without bubbles are appropriate as a primer. These walls typify the layout of the interior of a room, such as a bedroom, living room, dining room, or hallway.
Your first coat of paint typically covers most or all of the area you cover with clear primer to hold patterns when re-painting a color.
How Much Paint, Coverage and Drying Time?
Low and high gloss shades of a coat of paint can supply various outcomes regardless of whether the coating is not thick enough or completely dry. The drying time depends on the skin as a function of the surface area.
Waxes with flat to medium sheen or paints from matte to flat take much longer to dry than those with glossy surfaces or substances close to a liquid consistency. It’s more time-consuming and more steps taken before the paint job starts than painting consumes more pressure after the paint has been applied.
Ask yourself how much paint you need before buying one paint coat and compare how much you require.
How Paint And Primer In One Different From Ordinary Paint?
Paint and primer in one may look very similar to regular paint, but in reality, their properties are very different. Speaking about paints, they do not have good adhesive power. This is the reason a person needs to apply a coat of primer in the first place.
On the other hand, paint and primer in one can stick exceptionally well to many surfaces, be it metal, concrete, drywall, or wood. It creates a powerful bond between the surface and paints for a leveled finish.
Ordinary paint has more chances of being peeled or scratched without a primer. Conversely, paint plus primer coating is much more durable than paint.
When you are painting a previously painted surface, then a primer plus paint provides greater coverage. You might only have one coat to get a polished finish. Using only paint will not give much coverage to you.
Here we have reviewed a few of the Best Primer For New Drywall in case in you are looking to buy one. It will help you make an excellent choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How to select the right kind of finish?
Flat– It is the concealer of paints and contacts more pigment than any other finish. This finish suits best in low-traffic areas with a lot of lightings like an office room or a formal sitting room.
Satin– The best finish when talking about durability, it is best for rooms with dark surroundings or humid areas such as bathrooms, basements, laundry room, etc. So if you are looking for a self-priming paint for any such room, then it is recommended.
Eggshell– This finish is between the glossy and matte finish but is easier to clean. This finish can be used for everyday spaces such as bedrooms, living rooms where the foot traffic is medium to high with usually less moisture, etc.
Semi-gloss– This type of finish is best for high moisture areas like bathrooms or kitchens or even on crown moldings and trims. Moreover, it can withstand high foot traffic areas around the house.
Q2. When is it recommended to use a primer plus paint?
If you are repainting your wall with the same color it was painted before; it is advisable to use paint plus primer to get a clean and smooth finish. But if you are applying a different shade or color, use a separate primer first and then apply paint.
Q3. Why is primer important?
For example, if you paint wood without applying primer, the surface will look dull and uneven patches of paint would appear. The primer prevents cracks, peeling, or fading of the paint.
Primers will speed up the job as they dry quickly, and modern primers are water-based. The primers also provide a base for the paint and cancel out any existing color so that you get the true color on the wall. The color of the paint lasts longer with the primer applied underneath.
Q4. Should one use primer even with a self-priming paint?
However, if the color is different or there are stains on the surface, then they will eventually bleed through the primer plus paint. In that case, it is vital to use a primer first. In fact, self-priming paints are effective in hiding light to mild stains only.
Moreover, certain self-priming paint manufacturing brands suggest customers use a primer as a base if you are painting on surfaces like metal to save it from rust.
Not every paint plus primer will shield the surface from mildew and mold, especially when the moisture exposure is very high. In such a scenario, too, you will have to apply a coat of primer before the self-priming paint.
Q5. Is Best Primer not beneficial For Bare Wood ?
The best primer for bare wood is one that will not only protect the wood from moisture and other environmental factors, but also help to preserve the natural color of the wood. There are many different primers on the market, but not all of them are created equal.
When choosing a primer for your bare wood project, be sure to select one that meets your specific needs.
Q6. What is the Best Bonding Primer for Kitchen Cabinets?
Conclusion
Primer plus paint may not be the best option for all painting purposes, yet it has some great benefits to offer when used for the right purpose, like for repainting surfaces. Other than this, it is always advisable to use a primer before painting, even if you are using the best paint and primer in one.
The most striking feature of these products is the premium and high-grade finish that they provide. Moreover, a prime and painter in one will save you a lot of time and money buying several cans of paint just to cover a few hundred square feet of area.
Travis is a painter by profession. His valuable painting tips help customers know how to do painting hassle-free. He is an expert in handling painting tools and loves sharing his experiences with customers. Travis has been in the painting business for the past 20 years. He is now on the verge of early retirement, passing on the secrets.