Color Swatch LabGear · CSL–G13
Primers and stain blockers
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Primer does three jobs: it helps paint stick, it seals porous surfaces so paint dries evenly, and it blocks stains from bleeding through. You do not always need it, but the situations where you do are predictable.
Always follow the manufacturer's label for ventilation, drying times and compatible topcoats. Oil-based and shellac primers have stronger fumes, so wear a respirator and ventilate; see our safety page.
Water-based multipurpose primers
Who it is for: most interior walls and trim.
These are low-odor and clean up with water.
- Water-based multi-surface primer, quarta water-based primer for many surfaces. (Search on Amazon)
- KILZ 2 water-based sealer-primer-stain blocker, 1 gala latex primer for sealing and stain control. (View on Amazon)
- Adhesion bonding primer for glossy surfaceshelps paint stick to glossy surfaces. (Search on Amazon)
Stain-blocking primers
Who it is for: water stains, smoke, marker and tannin bleed.
Oil-based and shellac primers block stubborn stains.
- Zinsser Cover-Stain oil-based stain-blocking primer, 5 galan oil-based primer used for stains. (View on Amazon)
- Oil-based sealer-primer-stain blocker, quartan oil-based stain-blocking primer. (Search on Amazon)
- Zinsser B-I-N water-based stain and odor blocking primer, flat whitea shellac-based primer for tough stains and odors. (View on Amazon)
Specialty primers
Who it is for: damaged surfaces and damp rooms.
Sealers firm up chalky or damaged surfaces; mold-resistant coatings suit bathrooms.
- Zinsser Gardz water-based problem surface sealer, clear, 1 qtseals damaged drywall and plaster surfaces. (View on Amazon)
- Mold and mildew resistant paint for damp roomsfor damp rooms such as bathrooms. (Search on Amazon)
- Primer spray for furniture and trimsmall primer jobs on furniture or trim. (Search on Amazon)
Tools for priming
Who it is for: anyone priming walls.
Use cheaper brushes and covers for primer so you do not clog good ones.
- 27-piece paint roller kit with 2 to 4 ft extension pole, rollers and brushesa starter bundle with frame, covers, brushes and an extension pole. (View on Amazon)
- Sponge (foam) brushes, 2 in., wood handle (10-pack)disposable brushes for sample boards and small touch-ups. (View on Amazon)
- Bates 9 in. paint trays (3-pack)a deep 9-inch tray for roller work. (View on Amazon)
- Bates 9 in. paint tray liners (10 pcs)makes tray clean-up faster when you switch colors. (View on Amazon)
Surface prep before primer
Who it is for: any surface with dirt, grease or gloss.
Primer does not replace cleaning and sanding.
- Savogran Trisodium Phosphate (TSP), 1 lbdegreases walls and cabinets before paint. (View on Amazon)
- Klean-Strip Easy Liquid Sander deglosser, quart (2-pack)dulls a glossy finish before priming. (View on Amazon)
- 3M aluminum oxide sandpaper, assorted grit 100-150-220 (5 sheets)smooth patched areas and rough spots. (View on Amazon)
- Tack cloths for dust removal (20-pack)wipes sanding dust off before priming. (View on Amazon)
FAQ
- Do I always need primer?
- No. Clean, sound, previously painted walls with a similar color often do not need it, while stains, new drywall and glossy surfaces usually do.
- Can I tint primer?
- Many primers can be tinted to a gray shade close to your topcoat, which can improve coverage with deep colors. Ask the retailer or check the label.
- Is paint-and-primer in one the same as primer?
- It combines both functions in one product, but it is not a substitute for dedicated stain-blocking primer in problem areas.
- How long should primer dry before painting?
- Follow the product label because times vary by primer type and conditions.
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