When painting or repainting drywall, a primer base is significant. Priming drywall will make the paint very well due to the adhesive property of primers. Hence, provide an elegant and levelled finish. Also, it hides any blemish or stains present on the surface.
Aside from the great looks that the primer offers, it also increases the surface’s life by protecting against the degrading effects of moisture, dust, mould, etc. For these reasons, applying a base of primer on drywall prior to painting becomes a crucial step. With the vast number of primers available, selecting one from them may look like a confusing task.
To avoid any confusion, it is advisable to do proper research when buying a primer. This article includes the reviews of the best primer for new drywall present in the market. Also, refer to the buying guide section to find out what to look for in a primer for drywall. Without further delay, let’s get straight to the topic.
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Table of Contents
11 Best Primer For New Drywall Reviews
1. KILZ L211101 Adhesion High-Bonding Interior Latex Primer/Sealer, White, 1-Gallon, 1 Gallon, 4 l – Best Overall
The first on our list is the bonding primer, which is from KILZ. KILZ is one of the best brands when it comes to primers. With the experience of forty years, it is hard to find any other brand that can match their products’ performance.
This primer, too, is one of their best products. It is a latex-based primer ideal for hard-to-paint surfaces.
Technical features and performance
This primer acts as an adhesive between the paint and the surface. If you need to paint a surface like metal etc., on which paint does not stick easily, then this primer is for you.
Besides the high-bonding virtue of this primer, it also acts as a sealer. You can apply any latex or oil-based paint over this primer. Also, it works with topcoats containing solvents like xylene.
Before applying this primer, ensure that the surface is clean and does not have grease, chalk, dust, mould, or any other loose particles to get the optimum results. You can apply it using the tool of your choice, whether a brush, roller, or spray gun.
Stir the primer well for an even consistency and wait for half an hour before recoating. One gallon of this primer can easily cover an area of up to three-hundred square feet.
Is this product recommended?
There is absolutely no doubt that this product is highly recommended by its users. The buyers state that this primer works perfectly.
Also, it was easy to apply. Keeping in mind the primer’s features and performance, buyers believe this is a primer worth buying. Hence, one can buy this product without hesitation.
Pros
- An ideal solution for difficult to paint surfaces.
- The price is reasonable.
- Has an almost negligible scent.
- High durability.
Cons
- Not for stain-blocking.
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2. KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Interior/Exterior Latex Primer/Sealer, White, 1-Gallon – Best for Moisture-blocking
Packed with a number of great features, this primer by KILZ is the second product on our list. Whether speaking of stain hiding or moisture blocking, this primer excels in both aspects.
This is a high-performing water-based primer that works on almost all interior and exterior surfaces. It is a good primer for surfaces that are exposed to a lot of humidity or moisture consistently.
Technical features and performance
It is ideal for drywall with light to average stains, an uneven surface, or screw/nail holes. This primer will hide the stains with its high stain-blocking feature and make the surface even for the paint.
The moisture-blocking feature of the primer creates a kind of barrier between moisture and surface to keep it from problems like mould. It can be used in bathroom and laundry walls.
The absence of any VOC ensures that the primer does not have a strong odour and is easy to work with. It is manufactured in a way to reduce the effects of colour changes; this water-based primer can be applied using a roller or spray gun. One gallon of this primer by KILZ is sufficient to cover an area of three to four hundred square feet.
Is this product recommended?
Almost every buyer believes that this is the best stain-blocking primer they have ever used. It filled their old and imperfect drywalls with new life.
The smooth finishing provided by this primer is unmatched. Not only do the customers suggest this primer to others, but they are also willing to repurchase it in the future if they need to.
Pros
- Its thickness is perfect.
- Easy to spread throughout the surface.
- It can be cleaned with just soap and water.
- Provides good adhesion.
Cons
- One needs to apply two or more coats of it.
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3. Rust-Oleum 286258 Primer, 31.5 oz, Gray – Most Versatile
This versatile primer can be used on multiple surfaces. The proper thickness of this primer makes it easy to apply on any surface.
Not only it improves the beauty of the surface, but it also offers high dependability by protecting it from mildew, mould dust, and even rust. Thus, if you are looking for durability, then it is a product you might want to use.
Technical features and performance
It is a latex-based primer that offers the combined features of both oil-based and water-based primers. The odour is relatively insignificant, and hence, you do need to arrange for ventilation. It includes features like stain-resistant, moisture-blocking, and rust-proof.
Therefore, it is not just for household purposes but also for commercial and industrial use. Due to its strong adhesive nature, it is perfect for shiny surfaces, which are usually difficult to apply paint on.
You can apply any paint over this primer, whether oil-based or water-based. 31.5 oz of this primer can cover around 100 square feet.
Apply it on a clean and dry surface using a brush or roller and let it dry for one hour before you start applying the next layer. As it is grey, it will provide better colour accuracy for the dark topcoats.
Is this product recommended?
As per the buyers, this primer is brilliant at stain-blocking and moisture-blocking. Thus, the surface where this primer is applied looks new and freshly-painted for a long period.
The users say that this primer provides a professional-looking finish, and thus, they would recommend others to buy it as well.
Pros
- Super simple to clean.
- Block stain and moisture efficiently.
- Any topcoat can be used with this primer.
- The smell is not so potent.
Cons
- Not enough value for the price.
- Coverage is less.
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4. KILZ Restoration Maximum Stain and odour Blocking Interior Latex Primer/Sealer, White, 1-gallon – Best at Odour-blocking
Want a primer that can cover even the toughest stains on the drywall? If yes, then there is nothing better than this primer. Yet another primer by KILZ, this product is known for its high stain-blocking feature.
Moreover, it has a unique virtue of odour-blocking, which reduces foul odours from smoke, pets, etc.
Technical features and performance
KILZ restoration primers will hide any average to heavy stains, whether of rust, grease, pencil, ink, nicotine, or stains caused by a pet. Now you do not have to worry about your little ones creating crayons art on the wall.
One can simply clean it using just soap and water. This will effectively block the water from reaching the surface and hence, preventing mildew and mould.
Moreover, it emits less smell and is non-combustible. When applied to a properly cleaned surface, it yields a levelled and matte finish. Remember to mix it well to get the right consistency.
One gallon of this primer can be used to coat an area of three hundred to four hundred square feet. It is cured just after an hour of applying and can then be recoated.
Is this product recommended?
The customers had only good things to say about this primer. It is truly a great primer for those who have little children or pets in their homes.
Its performance was so outstanding that many buyers had bought this primer multiple times. Thus, the users would suggest it to others.
Pros
- Odour and stain-blocking primer.
- Prevents mildew and moulds.
- Pretty simple to use.
- Not volatile.
Cons
- A minimum of two coats is required.
- It is a little pricey.
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5. 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair, All in One Applicator Tool – Most Easy-to-use
Coming in an easy-to-apply bottle, this primer is highly suitable for drywalls. No matter what kind of unevenness or holes you want to cover on the drywall, this is going to cover them efficiently.
Hence, providing a flat and smooth surface ready to be painted. The smart design of the bottle makes it easier for the user to apply the primer without the help of any other tool.
Technical features and performance
From a small nail hole to hiding any stain, this primer has got you covered. The small opening on the bottle allows the only limited quantity of primer to come out, making it easier to apply a primer in small holes.
The putty knife-shaped end of the bottle will enable you to level the primer after applying. The bottle cap’s sandpaper base can be used to sand the surface even once the primer is dry.
This applicator is three times better than a conventional vinyl spackling. Suitable for both interior and exterior work, this finishing delivered by this product will not shrink or scrap.
After it is dried completely, it is robust enough to support nails or screws. The paint will stick properly on this primer and leave behind no bubbles.
Is this product recommended?
The unique design of the bottle makes the task of fixing the holes on the wall a piece of cake. According to the buyers, this primer gave an outstanding performance.
It successfully filled the small gaps in the drywall and gave a beautiful finish. Hence, this product is a great choice.
Pros
- Worth its price.
- Extremely easy to use.
- Good thickness.
- Ergonomic design.
Cons
- Only suitable for small holes on drywall.
- Contains harmful chemicals.
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6. Rust-Oleum 2004 Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer, 1 Quart, 946 ml, White – Best Durability
This is a great water-based which is ideal for individuals who have never primed a surface before. Its thickness is just right and does not drip.
If you have trouble working with a brush or roller, then you have the option of an aerosol spray paint formula for easier application. Also, it is available at a very reasonable price.
Technical features and performance
This primer has rust inhibitors, which saves the surface from the damaging effect of rust. It covers light to average stains and prevents tannin bleed.
Also, it separates the moisture from the surface, and thus, it will avoid the growth of moulds. It is highly adhesive and will stick without the need for sanding.
After applying this primer, it will not peel or scrape easily. One can use either roller or gun spray to apply it. One quart of the primer will be enough to apply on one hundred square feet.
It dries up completely in an hour and ready for another layer of primer or topcoat of oil or latex paint. Moreover, it hardly has any odour.
Is this product recommended?
The reviews given by numerous customers make it clear that this product is definitely one of the best drywall primer. The users state that they were able to prime the surface without any trouble with this product. The finishing looks great and even. Owing to its great performance, it is highly recommended.
Pros
- The cost is feasible.
- It can be cleaned quickly.
- Easy to apply.
- It is rust-proof.
Cons
- Not great at masking the surface colour.
- Thicker than required.
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7. KILZ 2 Multi-Surface Stain Blocking Interior/Exterior Latex Primer/Sealer, White, 1-gallon – Best Price
Last but not the least, another primer by KILZ, this product has all the features you would expect in a good primer.
It makes the paint stick easily to the surface and reduces the amount of paint you need to get a smooth and flat finish. Also, it’s a versatile primer that can be used on numerous surfaces, including drywall.
Technical features and performance
One can use this primer on both the exterior and interiors. It has an outstanding stain-resistant and blocking property. Even if the surface was painted before, it will not be visible through this primer.
The coating of this primer evens out the surface for the paint and has a high adhesive nature, due to which the paint particles stick better to the surface. Therefore, you do not need to put multiple coats of paint to get the proper colour.
You do not need to have a specific tool to apply this primer and hence, it is easy to apply. One gallon of this primer can coat about three hundred to four hundred square feet of the area once.
It takes only thirty minutes to dry to touch, and after an hour, you can apply another layer of primer or paint. Any oil-based or water-based paint will work with this primer.
Is this product recommended?
It might be at the end of our list, but it is better than most primers. Its stain-blocking attribute works amazing. Also, it is pretty inexpensive as compared to other primers, which have the same features. KILZ is a trustworthy brand, and hence you would not regret purchasing this water-based primer.
Pros
- Consistency is appreciable.
- The price is low.
- Highly stain-resistant.
Cons
- Not very reliable.
- It can be challenging to use.
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8. INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer, 1 Quart, White – Best PVA Primer
The INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer is an exceptional product that you can consider for home projects. The premium quality primer is a waterborne & acrylic urethane primer-sealer.
It works primarily on most surfaces with prime ease. Some of them include plastic, PVC, vinyl, glass, tile, pre-coated siding, fiberglass, and galvanized metals. It provides you with a hard film when cured.
Technical Features And Specifications
The primer is good for drywall, plaster, drywall, and wood. This is when you require a low ambient that can cause problems for most other primers. It is not the case here. The primer is able to bond “hard-to-coat” surfaces.
You can use it as a topcoat for any product that you want. It is able to completely cure in temperatures as low as 35 °F. The coverage offered by the primer is outstanding. You can now work in a 75 – 100 square foot area.
The primer comes with low VOC and is easy to clean once you have finished working on it. The enamel holdout is exceptional, offering you with an outstanding base for a topcoat finish. Additionally, the primer is suitable for a wide range of surfaces including glossy surfaces, shutters, masonry walls, wood, cement block, aluminum, and other challenging surfaces.
Is This Product Recommended?
In our opinion, this product is the best primer for new drywall. It comes with a wide range of features and benefits that you would find hard to ignore. You can make use of the low VOC, water cleanup, and magnificent enamel holdout. Besides, it provides you with an outstanding topcoat finish.
Pros
- It works on the most challenging surfaces without hassle.
- The product completely cures in temperatures as low as 35 °F.
- You can work on a 75 – 100 square foot coverage.
- It comes with a low VOC for easy water cleanup.
- The primer offers you a magnificent enamel holdout.
Cons
- You may not want to use it over wallpaper.
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9. 1 gal Zinsser 01501 White Zinsser, Drywall Primer Seals New Drywall – Best Drywall Primer-Sealer
The Zinsser 01501 White Zinsser, Drywall Primer Seals New Drywall is another outstanding product that you can consider using for your drywall projects. The primer is simple to use and work with.
Besides, it is a GAL WB Drywall Primer that is most ideal for sealing new drywalls. Moreover, the primer dries quickly, enabling you to make the second coat. You would be delighted to know that the product is produced in America itself.
Technical Features And Specifications
The primer is a GAL WB Drywall unit that is simple and easy to use. You would be already with your work before you know it. Another element is that the product is manufactured in the United States of America.
It is most appropriate for using and sealing drywalls. The primer also dries quickly enabling you to prepare another coat. Moreover, it won’t raise the nap on the drywall. Since this is a water-based product, you can clean up effortlessly after you have completed your project.
Is This Product Recommended?
Yes, we highly recommend this product. You can use it for indoor and outdoor projects as well. However, it is ideal for sealing the drywalls. When you are keen on sealing your property walls, you know what to do now.
Pros
- The primer is simple to use.
- It is a GAL WB Drywall product.
- It is suitable for sealing the drywalls.
- The product is able to dry quickly.
- A primer is a water-based unit that is easy to clean up.
Cons
- It may not be ideal on all surfaces.
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10. 1 qt XIM Products 11022 White XIM, 400 White Solvent-Based Primer Bonder/Sealer – Best Primer To Cover Drywall Imperfections
Our next primer is the 1 qt XIM Products 11022 White XIM, 400 White Solvent-Based Primer Bonder/Sealer. This is a top-notch solvent that is produced to meet the Federal and State VOC requirements.
Besides, you can find the solution for your paint bonding issues. It offers you phenomenal adhesion & sealing on several surfaces. You need to clean the surface and then sand it. Then you can apply the coat.
Technical Features And Specifications
This primer is a solvent base white bonding sealer. The product can be used for both indoor and outdoor projects flawlessly. You can work with it using alkyd or latex topcoats. It works like a charm on most surfaces, including tile, formica, metals, glass, glazed block, fiberglass, etc.
The manufacturer has not recommended it for use under strong solvent topcoats. They could be lacquers or two-component epoxies. Apart from that, it is good to use.
Is This Product Recommended?
The primer is a worthy product for indoor and outdoor projects. It comes with a host of features that are suitable for painting projects. Moreover, it provides you with the results that you want.
Pros
- The model is a solvent base white bonding sealer.
- The primer can cover the imperfections on the walls.
- The product is suitable for interior and exterior work.
- It can be used with alkyd or latex topcoats.
- It works well on most surfaces, including tile, formica, and metals.
Cons
- You may not want to use them under strong solvent topcoats.
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11. Rust-Oleum 276087 Mold Killing Primer Quart White 32 Fl Oz – Best Primer For Killing Mold
A reputable maker in America produces the Rust-Oleum 276087 Mold Killing Primer. It is not surprising to see that their products are recognized and used in most home painting projects.
Zinsser provides you with spectacular products that can help you seal the drywall and get rid of the mold as well. You can use them on challenging surfaces and substrates. They come with quarts/gallons for effective application on the walls.
Technical Features And Specifications
The primer is produced mainly for getting rid of mold, fungi, and mildew. When you are working on a project that needs to get rid of these, then you would want to use the product. They can get rid of the stains and odor as well.
The primer does not come with odor and is a water-based solution. You can now effectively clean it. It can cover more than 160 square feet, and it can dry within 30 minutes. You can now recoat in 1 hour to complete your project.
It comes with an EPA registered antimicrobial. You can be assured that the mold and mildew are drastically prevented once applied on your walls. For best results, you can use it with the ZINSSER perma-white.
Is This Product Recommended?
The product is a big yes from us. Besides, it is also affordable, under $35. The coverage provided is good, and it dries quickly. You can complete your projects on time. Moreover, it comes infused with the EPA registered antimicrobial. It binds chalky siding, metal, and masonry.
Pros
- The primer can seal difficult-to-paint surfaces.
- The product covers surface problems present due to mold and stains.
- It prevents topcoat paints from peeling off.
- It provides you with a smooth texture.
- The primer is able to protect from damage when used with paint.
Cons
- There might be issues with using it on slippery surfaces.
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What Is Drywall Primer?
A drywall primer is produced from gypsum plaster along with more additives. They include mica, cellulose, and clay. The drywall is a combination of these components and is applied mostly in construction purposes & drywalls.
The primer is simple to use and easy to apply on a wide range of walls. Besides, it comes with a wide range of colors that can easily blend with the surrounding use. The Drywall primer can be used for both indoor and outdoor purposes.
You can also repair it as and when needed. You will be delighted to know that the drywall comes durable. A primer is required when you want to paint on a surface like the drywall. It could be a new wall or a recoating job.
The product is perhaps the best primer for new drywall. It is interesting to note that the component is similar to that of glue. It is ideal for users to seal the drywall. That is because it operates well on drywall surfaces.
Drywalls are generally permeable surfaces, and ordinary primers may not work well in comparison to the drywall primers. They can easily cover up the surface and ensure that it comes nicely balanced for you to paint on it as well.
It does the job better than most paints. Most people feel that merely applying a few layers of paint should do the job, might want to reconsider doing that. That is because your paint will peel out in a short while and needs to be redone because of unevenness.
Hence, you might want to consider using a drywall primer for your walls. That way, you can prime the surface that you want to paint. This ensures that the paint job is done well, the appearance is enhanced, and moreover, it is durable.
Types Of Drywall Primer
We have discussed some of the types of drywall primers briefly:
- Primer-Sealer: The primer-sealer seal’s drywalls. Besides, you can also prep the drywall too.
- High-Build Primer: It is a product that provides you with ample flexibility. Now, you can apply on a large surface on your drywall. Moreover, you can also fill all the cracks that are present on the drywalls. You can get an opulent undercoating by making use of thick coating. Additionally, you can get a proper finish to it.
- Tinted Primer: The tinted primer is mainly used for designing a tinted surface. You can make use of this product to paint that does not come as a similar color of the top-layer. However, it resembles almost the top layer of the surface. You need to place only one layer of paint to get the desired results.
- Bonding Primer: The bonding primer is another product that provides you with an exceptional bond on porous & smooth surfaces. You can notice that it has a thick coating for better usage.
- Acrylic Primer: Though it is somewhat expensive, it has the capability of sealing the drywalls of cracks and smoothens the surface. Now, you can easily paint on the surface. When money is not an issue, then you can make use of this primer.
- BIN Primer: The BIN primer is a shellac-based product. You will be delighted to know that it can dry pretty fast. Most primers take close to 30 minutes to dry. It can be used to remove the stains present on the surfaces too.
- Alkyd Primer: It is another outstanding type of primer that is produced from oil. That means it can dry faster and it works splendidly on water stains. You can now use it effectively on the surface of the drywall.
- Skim Coat: It is a drywall primer that can be used on drywall. The product provides you with an exceptional smooth feel to it and besides, the paint job is done in an elegant manner.
The above were some of the types of the primers for the drywall. You can choose the one depending on your preference and budget. The best choice of primer for new drywall is the primer-sealer option.
This primer will not just seal the surface; it will also cover any imperfections or variations, ensuring you have an even surface to paint on. It is important that drywall is prepared nicely before you plan on doing the paint job.
That ensures the drywall surface becomes effective for you to paint on it. Besides, it saves you money. You can either use a PVA drywall primer because it is cheaply priced, and the components are most ideal for drywalls.
But you can also make use of the primer-and-paint option. The product comes with the thickening agents. They are also called self-priming paints. That is because they contain the consistency that is much thicker and along with PVA.
It is thicker than the traditional paint, and you do not require to make several coatings. Using 2-3 coats, you can get an ideal surface.
Pros And Cons Of Drywall Primers
The above products reviewed are the ones that are most commonly used in the market. There are two options to choose from. You can either make use of the oil-based or water-based unit. You can use the tint to drywall primer to blend with the paint that you have selected.
You can also tint your primer if you want to. However, it may cost slightly more than what you had anticipated. Below are some of the pros & cons of drywall primers.
Pros
- The primer can prevent and block stains.
- The primer helps you to attain a smooth work.
- The primers enable you to enhance the quality of the work done on the surface.
- You can sand the surface flawlessly.
- Using water-based primers help you to clean the surfaces.
- The water-based products come with lower volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
- Using primers requires a few coats on the surface of the drywall.
- The primer enables you to create a balance on the surface of the drywall.
Cons
- They contain high levels of VOC and have a pungent odor.
Table Of Drywall Primers
Below is a table that contains the types of drywall primer. We have also given the main purpose of each of them. When you do not want to use the primer, then your paint might peel out quicker than you think.
Besides, you can have an uneven finish. It makes it challenging to clean. You may want to take some time to prep the wall. Doing that ensures the paint is evenly balanced and appears elegant to look at.
| Types of Primer | Purpose of the Primer |
| Drywall Sealer/Primer | It was designed for drywalls. Besides, the product comes in both water & oil-based options. |
| Tinted Primer | It provides you with a color similar to that of the paint color. This gives you a sublime texture. |
| Bonding Primer | It provides you with the ability to bond the primer on challenging surfaces. |
| High-Build Primer | This product offers you exceptional coverage on the surface. |
| BIN Primer | It is a shellac-based product that can easily remove stains and seals effectively. |
| Skim Primer | It offers you with a smooth and even finish on the surface. |
Tips On How To Use Drywall Primers
Knowing how to use drywall primers can help you effectively perform the paint task at hand. When you have completed taping and mudding, then all you have to do is apply the primer on the drywall.
Besides, you also have sand on the surface of the drywall for best results. It does not have to be as difficult as you think. Below are a few tips and ideas on how you can use the primer on the drywall.
- You must make sure that you fill those cracks and imperfections.
- You need to make the surface of the drywall as smooth as possible for the paint job to be stunning.
- After sanding the surface of the wall, avoid using a wet cloth. That can cause adverse effects on the surface. Instead, you might want to use a thick cloth.
- Use the lint-free paint roller because it allows you to work smoothly and efficiently. Knowing how to make use of time and more coverage is the key element here. Besides, use top-notch tools.
- After you have prepped the surface, you can paint the walls in 2-3 days. We suggest that you make use of a 220-grit paper to sand down.
- When you are repainting the wall, then we strongly advise you to use a tinted primer. That way you can get the job done easily.
- Please make sure that the area has sufficient lighting to work. Avoid working at night or when it is dark. When it is raining too much or there is a storm in the area, then it is best to wait.
- You might want to cover the floors and the furniture present with plastic sheets or the drop clothes.
- Lastly, you need to make sure that the room comes with good ventilation. You do not want to work in areas that have poor ventilation. That is because most primers come with a strong odor to them.
When Should You Use A Paint Primer For Drywall?
You should always use a paint primer for drywall. That is because fresh drywall is challenging to cover up when you do not prime it. The reason for that being the surface can be porous causing a lot of holes and unbalance in the texture.
When you paint the surface, the imperfections will be very obvious. It ruins the looks and appearance of the surface, when it is not prime. You would want to prime the surface so that the dirt, dust, and other elements are removed from it.
This makes the surface ready to paint and more importantly, gives you the ability to get the expected results after painting. You may want to splash one coat of primer on the surface before painting it for the best results.
What Specifically Should You Look for In A Primer For Drywall?
As we read in the above paragraphs, priming the surface of the drywall is crucial for getting the optimum results. Since the surface is new and quite porous, you might want to prep it for the new coat of paint.
Having said that, all primers for drywalls are not different from other primers. But the ideal primer is the one that comes with sufficient adherence to stick to the drywall being painted. You do not want to use a primer that cannot stick properly on the drywall.
Otherwise, prepping the drywall is going to be a sheer waste in the first place. If you prime the surface of the drywall, it provides you with a smooth and clean finish that you want. You do not want the surface to be uneven and unbalanced.
However, when it comes to restoring or repairing a drywall, then you might want to make use of a stain-blocking primer/sealer. It can provide you with a top-notch surface for you to coat the fresh coat of paint.
Here is a small fact, using the primer saves you money. It designs a sublime surface for you. This way you are actually saving on the paint. You can choose a stunning paint primer for your project by knowing the answers to these questions.
- What is the condition of the surface you plan on painting? In the sense, is it stained, damaged, new, and so on?
- Are you using a sprayer or roller? For a large surface a roller is used for quick coverage. For a smaller area, sprayers are more effective.
- Lastly, what is the kind of paint you plan on using on the primer? We don’t have to remind you to use a top-notch quality paint material.
When you plan on painting a new surface of drywall, then we suggest that you make use of a latex primer/sealer. That is because, you may not have any stains to paint upon. Hence, it does not have to be a stain-blocking primer.
How To Prime Drywall?
Unlike what most of you think, priming the drywall is a simple task, provided you know some simple ideas on how to do it. There is no need to make use of expensive tools and primers. Just the traditional primers and methods would suffice.
The new drywalls come without those nagging cracks, holes, and stains. You can get ready straight to work. However, when you have to paint an existing drywall, then you might want to get rid of the holes, stains, and other debris before painting the drywall.
Given below are some easy methods that can help you when painting your drywall.
- It is vital that you take a close look at the wall before painting it. That will help you detect the holes, cracks, and stains present on it. On an existing wall, they can be visible the moment you see them carefully.
- When you see those cracks and holes, then you will have to sand them using the right kind of sandpaper. Sanding is a simple process that ensures the surface becomes quite smooth and easy to paint.
- You can either vacuum the surface or use a thick cloth. Please avoid using a wet cloth for doing that. You might consider using a Swiffer Sweeper that can genuinely help you perform other cleaning tasks at home too.
- Now, you are ready to prime the drywall. We do not recommend using regular paint to prep the wall. That is not how it works. Moreover, your drywall will most likely start peeing before you know it.
- A combination unit of paint and primer can be used if your home is not more than 2-3 years old. Otherwise, you may want to prime the wall using a top-notch primer.
- You can begin slowly and cover the wall using the primer. You can either use a spray or brush. You can also use a roller. Whatever is convenient. When the area of work is less, then a spray works just fine. But when the area of coverage is more, then you might consider using a roller.
- Of course, when you are not sure about doing the task, then you can call a professional and get it done.
A good quality primer usually takes around 30 minutes to dry. You may want to see the instructions to find out the drying time. Besides, the temperature and the humidity level where you are living has a say in that.
Once the first coat has dried, you can then apply the second coat. Then you can apply the third coat on the surface. The drying time of the primer is the most crucial element of these products, so please keep an eye on them.
Paint And Primer In One: Not The Best Drywall Primer!
The paint and primer in one may not be the best choice for an existing wall that is a few years old. That is because you will not be able to get the desired output. Your walls might most probably have few cracks, holes, and stains on it.
You can, however, use them on walls that are brand new or are in a good condition. However, they do not guarantee any results. Sometimes, you may not think that it is necessary to use a primer and then paint it.
Perhaps, you want to save time. But please understand that the paint might peel off pretty soon and you will end up spending more money. It will not give you the same result that the 3-coat layer will.
Mold Or Mildew On Interior Walls
- Whether you are residing in a hot or cold locality, mold and mildew are part of your life. If your home or property is a few years old, then you can easily see the mold or mildew growing on the walls.
- Though you may think of them as harmless or worthless, think again. That is because they will keep spreading throughout your house. Besides, they are dangerous for kids and elderly people.
- You must do something about it to make sure that it stops spreading. All you have to do is use a brush, get a good quality primer, and coat the surface of the wall. In this case, you might consider using the BIN primer.
- When you are allergic to chemicals, then you may want to take the help of a professional painter. They can complete the work in no time and besides, you know that you do not have to see them for a long time.
- Some of you might consider using bleach. Well, we may not suggest that you do so. That is because the mold can survive despite using bleach. If at all you do want to use bleach, then your room must be airy and nicely ventilated.
- You can prep the wall. Then you can spray on those spots where you are noticing that there is a lot of mold or discoloration. Some primers provide you with resistance to moisture and stains. When you want to work in the bathroom or kitchen, then you have to use moisture resistance.
How To Find The Best Primer For Drywall? [Buyer’s Guide]
A buying guide contains the key factors that one should be looking for in a product they plan to buy. These factors are essential as they help you find a product which is as per your requirements.
Hence, one should always consider the buying guide while purchasing anything. Discussed below are the significant attributes of the primer.
1. Coverage
Coverage refers to the area which a fixed amount of primer can cover. In the description of the product, you will find the area one gallon, quart, or oz of primer can cover. The primer you buy is according to the area you want to prime.
However, you might have to put more than one layer of primer on the drywall, and then the area it can cover is going to decrease. In that case, you might have to get more quantity of primer. Thus, have enough primer to cover the entire area which is to be primed.
2. Colour
Primers are available in two colours, grey and white. Most people do not know that the two colours of primer are used for different purposes. Grey primers are used as a base for dark topcoats. Applying a grey primer makes the dark colour of the paint appear more clear.
On the other hand, white primers are advisable for topcoats of bright colour. With a white primer, the light colour will look vibrant and unaffected by the colour of the surface.
Another method used for better colour accuracy is to get the exact colour of the paint by adding a small amount of the paint in the primer. Add one part of paint in four parts of primer and stir well. The end mixture will have a tint of topcoat colour.
However, for this process, the primer should be white. Whichever method you are using, make sure that you have the right shade of primer for your topcoat.
3. Type of Primer
The primer can either be oil-based or water-based/acrylic/latex. These types have different positives and negatives. Oil-based are pretty durable, good at moisture-blocking and stain-sealing, but they have a strong smell and can take one day to dry.
The water-based primers are more versatile and can be used on multitudes of surfaces. Also, maintaining them is pretty simple. However, they are not efficient in hiding stains.
Though this is not the case always, there are primers that are oil-based but have a less potent odour. Consequently, some primers have features of both oil and water-based. But they are expensive. Depending on your demands, you can choose the type of primer.
We have this awesome review on Best Paint And Primer In One. You must check it. It will increase some options for you.
4. Cost
At what price you are buying the primer is very important. You do not want to spend a lot of money on a primer that does not fulfil your requirements.
Hence, the first thing you should do is make sure that you have a clear idea of what features you need in your primer.
Once figuring that out and compare different brands that offer the same features. Take the help of the reviews to determine whether the primer’s performance is as good as advertised.
Following this method will give you a list of products that offer value for money. Then you can buy the primer which falls in your budget or the one you think is worth spending money on.
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Q1. What is the difference between drywall primer vs paint primer?
The Poly Vinyl Acetate is a rubbery substance that separates the primer from the paint. But the drywall primer decreases the coats, seals the pores efficiently. It is not an ideal option for sealing raw wood & doesn’t block stains. The PVA primer enables you to seal unfinished surfaces on several materials.
But cannot block stains and can’t seal pores on raw wood. In conclusion, they are exactly the same, but should be used for their specific purpose.
Q2. How many coats of primer on new drywall?
However, it takes close to a few hours for the primer to dry. It is affected due to the temperature of your locality, the humidity, and the primer used. The number of coats will also depend on the product you plan on using on the clean surface.
Q3. Do you need to prime drywall and why?
Besides, when you are applying the primer, the smoothness of the application is noticed. When your first coat is not 100% smooth, then you can apply a second coating mildly. That is not required, if you have efficiently prime the surface.
Q4. How to prep new drywall for paint?
The main problem with a new drywall is that they come with a very uneven surface. That makes painting a dreaded task. The drywall usually comes with loads of mud, dirt, and other kinds of debris that you might not want to see there.
Q5. Can I use drywall primer on painted walls?
Q6. Do you need to prime drywall patches before painting?
However, when the repairs are large, then you need to use a top-notch primer. You can also think of using a sealing-type primer before painting. But when the patch has a self-priming patching already done on it, then there is no need to make use of this process.
Q7. How are oil-based primers different from water-based primers?
Oil-based primers are usually more challenging to work with. They require special types of brushes and have a very intense odour. Due to their high volatility, you would need to arrange for proper ventilation. Their durability is high, and hence, you can clean by proper scrubbing without damaging the surface.
Q8. What are shellac-based primers?
Moisture-blocking is also one of its essential virtues. People have been using shellac-based primers for a long time to save the wooden surfaces which are easily spoiled by moisture or water. Their adhesive property is also remarkable, and it dries up quite quickly. The only setback is that they are suitable for only limited surfaces.
Here are some of the best primer for bare wood. You can check them as well.
Q9. What are the safety measures to take while priming?
Cover the surface with tape or a sheet of plastic, which you do not want to get a primer on. For example windows, the furniture you cannot move to a different place.
Ensure that you have proper ventilation. The primer contains volatile compounds that can be harmful when inhaled in large quantities. Even if you are using primers with low VOCs, still leave a window open to be on the safer side.
Do not leave any part of the skin exposed to the primer as our skin can absorb chemicals. Cover your face using a mask, use gloves and wear long-sleeve shirts.
Q10. Are there any differences between drywall primer and paint primer?
They fill the tiny pores, don’t require a heavy coat, and give a smooth surface for painting. On the other hand, Paint Primers do the same as they also fill all the pores of the surface and reduce the number of coats required to achieve a uniform look but are often thicker and pricier than drywall primers.
Q11. Can I use Drywall Primer on wood?
Best Primer For New Drywall: Conclusion
No matter what surface you are painting, drywall, or some other, priming is an important step. A primer is a great base and adds to the beauty and durability of the paint. Therefore, one should not avoid the use of a primer.
We hope that the new drywall primer reviews were able to provide you with information that can assist you in finding a good primer. Also, take the help of the points mentioned in the buying guide to select a primer that fits your demands.
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.