So you have a few drywall repairs in your home, and you walk into Home Depot to have the guy behind the counter tell you need to apply a paint and primer in one before you paint.
They show you a regular PVA drywall sealer and then show you the expensive paint and primer in one product.
What’s the difference? And why the difference in primer selections?
My name is Paul, your go-to guy from Trusted House Painter, and today, I’m thrilled to give you the short and skinny in the captivating world of paint and primer. Specifically paint and primer-in-one.
There’s a few distinctions between PVA primer (Polyvinyl acetate) and the luxurious paint and primer-in-one.
Debunking the Myth: Can You Use Paint and Primer in One on Fresh Drywall?
Ah, the age-old question: Can you slap on that ubiquitous paint and primer combo straight onto your newly installed drywall? Well, hold onto your paintbrushes, folks, because the answer might just surprise you!
Let’s paint a clear picture (pun intended): while yes, you can use paint and primer in one on fresh drywall, there’s a catch – it’s gonna cost you a pretty penny.
But fear not, for I’m here to shed some light on a game-changing alternative that’ll leave your walls looking flawless without breaking the bank.
What is Paint and Primer in One?
Paint and primer in one is basically a blend of paint and primer in one paint product. It’s usually found in the higher end product line of most paint retail brands.
It comes in both interior and exterior paint, and has increased adhesion and stain blocking capability – because of the primer additive.
Paint and Primer in One is ideal for quick turn over and to be used on drywall and wood surfaces where primer and paint is required.
Instead of using twice the labour (one coat for primer, and one coat for painting) you can get away with only one application.
However, it’s important to know where to draw the line when replacing a normal primer product with the paint and primer in one products.
Popular Paint and Primer In One Products:
- Behr Premium Plus: This self-priming is 100% acrylic, mildew resistant and suitable for active households.
- Sherwin Williams SuperPaint: This interior acrylic latex paint and primer in one applies easily, dries quickly, and offers great hide to make color changes easy.
- Benjamin Moore ben Interior Paint: Easy to apply, easy to touch up, and easy to maintain, with ben Interior, your premium paint job is more achievable than ever.
- Dulux Diamond: An interior acrylic paint with a unique formula of ceramic microspheres and advanced stain resistant technologies that surpasses the performance of traditional interior acrylic paints.
The Power of Primer Sealer: Unleashing the Magic
Primer Sealer is the unsung hero of the painting world.
Picture this: a magical potion that fills every nook and cranny of your drywall, creating a smooth canvas that’s primed (pun intended, again!) for a flawless finish.
In reality, using a drywall primer sealer is not only inexpensive, it covers the drywall’s porous surface so that the top coat of paint can adhere properly and provide a smooth finish.
Let’s break it down a little more…
Primer Sealer, infused with the mystical essence of Polyvinyl Acetate (PVA), works wonders in transforming your dry, patchy drywall into a pristine masterpiece.
Essentially, PVA primers help seal the drywall so that the paint has a strong surface to bond to.
Mastering the Art of Painting: Why Primer Sealer Reigns Supreme
Now, you might be wondering, “Paul, why should I bother with this Primer Sealer wizardry when I can just grab a can of paint and primer in one?”
You see, primer sealer isn’t just your run-of-the-mill primer – it’s a game-changer.
By absorbing into every part of drywall, (the board and the mud) it sets the stage for paint to adhere like a dream, ensuring a flawless finish with minimal effort.
Plus, with fewer top coats needed, you’ll be saving both time and money – now, who can argue with that?
Sherwin Williams makes a few different drywall primer products. Dulux and Benjamin Moore also make their own versions of primer sealer products for drywall, and one of the products I use is Promar 200 from Sherwin Williams.
The Verdict: Primer Sealer vs. Paint and Primer Combo
So, what’s the final verdict, you ask? Well, it all boils down to this: if your interior painting project involves more than just a small patch of drywall, Primer Sealer is your trusty sidekick.
It’s not only less expensive, but when applied correctly it can make your paint job last a long time.
(Tip: make sure to allow proper drying time of your primer sealer prior to applying your 1st coat of paint. This is a critical tip that many DIYers and new painters overlook.)
But hey, if you’re just fixing up a minor blemish or a small drywall patch on the wall, feel free to dabble with those paint and primer combos – just be prepared for a bit more elbow grease!
In the end, whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time renovator, one thing’s for sure: when it comes to painting, knowledge is power.
So, arm yourself with the right tools, embrace the magic of Primer Sealer, and let your creativity run wild!
If you’re itching for more painting tips, tricks, and tales from the trenches, be sure to check out our blog page. or Trusted House Painter YouTube Channel.
If you have a burning question about painting that you need answered, you can also call our toll-free homeowner hotline at 1-866-724-6818.
If you need to find local painters and get quotes – whether in St. Louis MO, Victoria BC, Houston TX or Tampa FL, use Trusted House Painter’s free online search directory. It’s quick, easy and saves you time looking for reliable local house painters.
Until next time, happy painting!
