Applying a primer can create a smooth surface that will enhance the appearance of your project, but not all primers are of the same quality. Some primers can lead to poor adhesion and uneven finish which can ruin your desired aesthetics.
That’s why I’ve listed the best primers for bare wood that will not only last but also create a stable base.
Reviews of the Top Primers for Bare Wood
1. Zinsser 02004 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer
The versatility of this primer is remarkable as it can be applied to a diverse array of surfaces, such as metal, masonry, concrete, drywall, and even glossy surfaces.
This made it easy for me to tackle my project without switching between different surface primers. The primer dried to the touch in just 35 minutes, allowing finishing the topcoat in just an hour.
Another benefit of the Zinsser 02004 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer is its excellent stain-blocking resistance, ensuring topcoats go on smoothly. The one-coat hide also saves time and money by improving the hide and coverage of topcoats.
What We Like
- Can slow down the process of rusting when applied to metals
- Resistant to mildew growth, peeling, and blistering
- Eliminates the need for time-consuming sanding
- Exhibits excellent adherence on various surfaces
What We Don't Like
- It may produce a textured finish
- Has a thin consistency.
2. Rust-Oleum Zinsser 03504 Cover Stain Interior/Exterior Oil Primer
This premium Rust-Oleum Zinsser 03504 Cover Stain Interior/Exterior Oil Primer not only adds shine to the final product but also has high-hiding formula blocking most stains. Besides, it helps seal smoke, water, and nicotine stains.
It sticks perfectly to exterior and interior surfaces, making it versatile for all painting needs. It also sands easily, which saves a lot of time and effort in the long run.
It dries quickly on interior surfaces and provides excellent enamel undercoating performance, which ensures a smooth and durable finish. You can use Rust-Oleum on wood and it works perfectly on exterior surfaces, delivering flexibility and full penetration.
What We Like
- Highly adaptable and can be utilized on various surfaces
- Enhances the appearance of subsequently applied paint
- Functions as a stain remover
- Effective in challenging conditions and on rough surfaces
What We Don't Like
- Not recommended for use with paintbrushes.
- Has the potential to create a mess
- Expensive
3. KILZ Oil Restoration Primer
This Kilz primer is truly a game changer, offering the performance of traditional oil and shellac-based primers while also being water-based. It’s low in VOC with no strange odor and is one of the affordable options.
This modified acrylic epoxy formula of the KILZ Oil Restoration Primer also offers excellent adhesion and blocks tough odors and stains, suitable for disaster recovery and restoration paint jobs. It can be sanded easily and dries hard, making it a great enamel undercoat.
This is particularly helpful if you’re saving time and effort in painting. It covers a large area, with the 1-gallon covering approximately 400 square feet.
What We Like
- Performs comparably to an oil-based primer
- Simple to sand down
- Suitable for use on a variety of surfaces
- Can be easily cleaned up with water
- Specifically designed to prevent staining and odor
What We Don't Like
- Typically requires multiple coats to achieve desired results.
- Has a relatively limited shelf life
4. Rust-Oleum Zinsser 00904 B-I-N Pigmented Shellac Oil Primer-Sealer
One of the loveable things about this Rust-Oleum Zinsser 00904 B-I-N Pigmented Shellac Oil Primer-Sealer is its ability to seal sap and knot streaks. I had a particularly stubborn sap stain on the kitchen countertop, but this Zinsser B-I-N could seal it perfectly, leaving no trace behind.
It also seals musty, pest, and smoke odors, which is great for those with pets or who live in areas with high humidity.
Another feature that sets this primer-sealer apart is its ability to stick to all surfaces without sanding. Plus, it has a lightning-fast dry time of just 45 minutes so I could complete my project in record time.
What We Like
- Adheres exceptionally well to any surface.
- Conceals both stains and odors
- A versatile product with many uses
- Dries relatively quickly
- Provides excellent and consistent coverage, even on surfaces with sap streaks or knots
What We Don't Like
- Challenging to apply.
- Expensive
5. INSL-X SXA11009A-01 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer
This top-notch primer-sealer exhibits an exceptional ability to stick to extremely difficult surfaces such as shiny tiles, galvanized materials, fiberglass, pre-coated sidings, glossy paint, glazed blocks, glass, plastic, vinyl, and PVC.
Its ability to adhere to difficult surfaces and be top-coated in nearly any product makes it an excellent choice for various painting projects—from drywall and wood trim to masonry walls and concrete surfaces.
The INSL-X SXA11009A-01 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer also has a low VOC and is easy to clean with soap and water. Additionally, this primer-sealer has excellent enamel holdout. It fully cures in temperatures as low as 35 °F, which is a huge plus for those in colder climates.
What We Like
- It is simple to clean.
- It has a low VOC rating.
- It requires little upkeep.
- The surface has a non-glossy texture.
- The container holds one gallon.
What We Don't Like
- There is a possibility of creating spots.
- It requires sanding.
6. KILZ Original Interior Primer
If you’re looking for a high-quality and affordable product, then this Kilz primer is perfect for you. It’s particularly useful when painting bare wood since it creates a great foundation for the paint to stick to.
The Kilz Original Interior Primer has excellent adhesion properties and helps intensify your paint’s color. This means you won’t have to use as much paint to achieve the desired finish.
Kilz oil-based primers are also designed to block stains and odors, making them a versatile option for covering all stains, including grease, water, and ink. But before applying the primer, it’s important to prepare the surface properly.
What We Like
- It effectively covers heavy stains and odors.
- Has strong adhesive properties, allowing you to apply less paint on top of it.
- It is affordable.
- The drying time is very quick.
What We Don't Like
- Relatively runny consistency
- Tough to remove due to stickiness
7. Rust-Oleum Brush On Paint 224430T
The water-based acrylic formula is low odor, which is a huge plus for me as I am sensitive to strong chemical odors. Despite the low odor, the Rust-Oleum Brush On Paint 224430T provided excellent coverage and protection for the surfaces I was working on, which included wood and metal.
This paint went on smoothly and evenly, and the flat finish minimized any imperfections on the surface. The drying time was also quick, allowing me to finish my project within the day.
The paint covered up to 120 sq ft, a considerable area for a single can. If you desire a shiny appearance, this primer is ideal for you.
What We Like
- Prevents peeling.
- Resistant to chipping
- Does not have a strong, unpleasant odor
- Offers long-lasting performance
- Dries in just 30 minutes
What We Don't Like
- Might require several coats to achieve desired results.
- Could have difficulties when applied with a brush
8. KILZ Oil Adhesion Interior/ Exterior Primer
This high-adhesion primer is specifically formulated for difficult to adhere to surfaces, making it an excellent choice for situations where a secure bond is critical. The KILZ Oil Adhesion Interior/Exterior Primer works on metals, tile, glass, and vinyl, providing a solid anchor for topcoats.
It’s also one of the best primers for bare wood because of is its advanced styrenated acrylic polymer formula, potentially eliminating or reducing the need for sanding. This is a huge time saver.
In terms of coverage, a 1-gallon can cover approximately 300-400 square feet, which is quite impressive. Its drying time of 30 minutes, after which it can be touched without smudging.
What We Like
- Suitable for use on various surfaces.
- Dries quickly
- Provides extensive coverage
- Exhibits excellent adhesion properties, ensuring long-lasting priming results
What We Don't Like
- Has strong and unpleasant fumes.
- Considerably expensive
9. Zinsser 272479 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Primer Spray
If you’re searching for a spray primer, you’ll be satisfied with this Zinsser primer spray. This option is convenient for handling small projects such as priming wood trim. Its 13-ounce capacity can easily cover 12 square feet.
The Zinsser 272479 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus Primer Spray has a quick drying time. However, the surface may feel rough after application, so sanding it down before painting is recommended. The good news is that it sands easily and leaves porous surfaces smooth.
Despite being in a spray can, the product offers high coverage and effectively conceals stains like water, smoke, and knots.
What We Like
- Can be sanded smoothly
- Quick drying time
- Offers great coverage and strong adhesion
- Ideal for small projects due to its easy application
What We Don't Like
- May not stick well to plastic or slippery surfaces.
- The nozzle may cause dripping and create a messy application.
10. KILZ 3 Premium Primer
The Kilz Premium High-Hide is a water-based latex primer. It has a milder odor, making it more environmentally friendly. Additionally, its water-based formula makes it easier to clean up accidental stains.
It comes in a one-gallon size, covering around 300-400 square feet. However, this primer is available only in white, making it a better choice for lighter-colored surfaces. This primer has strong stain-blocking properties. It can effectively cover knots and imperfections to have a smooth surface.
The KILZ 3 Premium Primer also protects against mold and mildew, which is ideal for high-humidity areas. Its zero VOCs make it a safe choice in occupied homes and workspaces.
What We Like
- Contains no volatile organic compounds
- Can cover a large area
- Offers an ideal foundation for repainting jobs
- Suitable for application on both indoor and outdoor wooden surfaces
- Possesses exceptional sticking abilities
- Effectively levels out irregular surfaces
What We Don't Like
- Has the potential to seep into glossy surfaces.
- Unsuitable for application on heavily pigmented and darker stains.
Why Should You Prime Bare Wood Before Painting?
Priming bare wood before painting is an essential step for several reasons. First and foremost, priming seals the wood’s surface, preventing it from absorbing excessive amounts of paint and ensuring an even, smooth finish.
Primers help provide better adhesion for the paint to reduce the chances of paint peeling or chipping over time. It can also block stains, knots, and tannin bleed from the wood, which could otherwise bleed through the paint and mar the appearance of the final finish.
Priming can also help enhance the paint’s overall color and appearance by providing a uniform base.
Finally, using a primer on bare wood can help improve the durability and longevity of the paint job, protecting the wood from moisture and other environmental factors. Priming bare wood ensures a better-looking, long-lasting paint job with improved performance.
See Also: Best Exterior Primers
Should I Apply Oil-Based or Water-Based Primer on Bare Wood?
When priming bare wood, oil- and water-based primers can be used. However, the best option depends on factors like the type of wood, the intended finish, and the project’s specific requirements. Here are some general guidelines to help you decide:
Oil-based primer
- Offers better adhesion and stain-blocking properties
- Seals porous surfaces and tannin-rich woods like redwood, cedar, or oak more effectively
- Takes longer to dry and has a strong odor
- Ideal for exterior projects or where there is exposure to moisture
- Requires to paint thinner or mineral spirits for cleanup
Water-based (latex) primer:
- Dries faster and has a low odor
- Easier to clean up (only requires water)
- Environmentally friendly with lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds)
- It can raise the wood grain, so sanding after priming might be necessary
- More susceptible to tannin bleed-through, especially with tannin-rich woods
So if you are working with tannin-rich wood or need superior stain-blocking properties, an oil-based primer might be a better option. However, a water-based primer may be more suitable if you prefer a faster-drying, low-odor, and environmentally friendly option.
Always read the manufacturer’s recommendations on the primer label to ensure compatibility with the wood type and topcoat you plan to use.
Primers for Bare Wood Buyer’s Guide
Type of Primer
Shellac
This primer is made from natural shellac, a resin secreted by the lac bug in Southeast Asia. It dries quickly and provides excellent adhesion and stain-blocking properties. Besides, there’s a dewaxed shellac that you can use for your projects.
It is ideal for sealing knots, sap streaks, and other types of wood stains. Shellac primer can be used on bare wood, porous wood, metal, plaster, and even previously painted surfaces.
Latex
A popular choice for quick-drying primers is those based on latex. They are ideal for time-sensitive projects as they typically dry within an hour. Unlike oil-based primers, they do not tend to become brittle, resulting in less peeling or cracking.
Furthermore, latex-based primers are easy to clean since they dissolve in water. They also contain low levels of VOC [1], making them eco-friendlier and less harmful to health.
Although a respirator mask is unnecessary, ensuring adequate ventilation during use is advisable.
Masonry
This type of primer is specifically designed for use on masonry surfaces, such as concrete, brick, and stucco.
It helps to seal porous surfaces and prevent moisture from penetrating the wood. Masonry primer can also improve adhesion and provide a smooth surface for the topcoat.
Bonding
If you are dealing with surfaces that are typically difficult to paint, such as vinyl, ceramic tiles, and plastic, a bonding primer can be an effective solution.
This type of primer has excellent adhesion properties, so it is often recommended for exterior wood projects where a primer that can stick well to wood is essential.
Stain-Blocking
This type of primer is designed to block out stains and prevent them from bleeding through to the topcoat. It is ideal for use on bare wood surfaces with stains, such as watermarks or smoke damage.
Stain-blocking primer can also help prevent tannin bleed, a common problem with certain types of wood, such as cedar or redwood.
Multipurpose
Multipurpose primers are well-liked because of their adaptability to various surfaces. Nonetheless, achieving this universal effect can be challenging, so opting for more reliable brands is recommended to ensure the best results.
Interior or Exterior Primer
Consider whether your project is for an interior or exterior space. Exterior projects typically require a primer with better moisture resistance and durability, while interior projects may prioritize low odor and ease of application.
Color
When selecting the best primer for bare wood, it’s important to consider the appropriate color for the job. This decision largely depends on the color of paint you plan on using. If you’re painting the wood surface with a darker color, a gray primer might be the best option.
On the other hand, if you plan to use lighter paint, a white primer would be more appropriate. If possible, consider using a tinted primer that suits the paint color you’ll be using.
This way, you can ensure that the final paint color is consistent and accurate without using more coats than necessary.
Type of Finish
Different primers can offer a glossy or matte finish to the surface. Selecting the primer that will provide the desired finish that matches your aesthetic preference is crucial.
If you prefer a glossy finish, choose a primer that provides a glossy look. Similarly, select a primer that produces a matte finish if you want a matte finish.
Ease of Application
Water-based primers are generally easier to apply and clean up than oil-based or shellac-based primers. Consider your experience and comfort level when choosing a primer.
Odor
In certain cases, wood surfaces may have unpleasant odors due to various factors such as smoking, pets, or other sources of bad smells in the environment. This can make it difficult to apply paint.
Fortunately, certain primers can help lock in and eliminate these unpleasant odors. You can effectively control unpleasant smells and create a better painting environment by selecting an appropriate primer.
Drying Time
The drying time varies between different types of primers. Water-based primers dry faster than oil-based or shellac-based primers. If time is a critical factor, consider choosing a primer with a shorter drying time.
Coverage
Check the primer’s coverage rate (usually indicated in square feet per gallon) to estimate how much primer you’ll need for your project. Primers with better coverage may save you money in the long run.
Durability and Maintenance
For high-traffic or high-moisture areas, choose a primer with superior durability and resistance to wear and tear. Oil-based and shellac-based primers generally offer better durability than water-based primers.
Price
The cost of primers can vary significantly. While opting for the cheapest option may be tempting, investing in a high-quality primer can save time, money, and effort in the long run by providing better coverage, adhesion, and durability.
How to Prime Raw or Bare Wood for Painting
Step #1: Prepare the Surface
Before priming, ensure the wood surface is clean, smooth, and free of any imperfections. Start by cleaning the wood with a damp cloth or soft brush to remove dirt, dust, or debris. You can also examine the wood for cracks, holes, or dents and fill them with wood filler.
Then, sand the wood using medium-grit sandpaper (120 to 150-grit), moving toward the wood grain. This will create a smooth and even surface for priming. Finally, use a tack or slightly damp cloth to remove sanding dust and let the surface dry completely.
Step #2: Apply a Layer of Primer
After preparing the surface, apply a layer of the appropriate primer (oil-based, water-based, or shellac-based) to the wood. Stir the primer well before using it and pour it into a paint tray.
Use a high-quality brush or roller to apply the primer evenly, following the wood grain. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including any edges or corners. Allow the primer to dry for 6 to 8 hours.
If necessary, lightly sand the primed surface with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to ensure a smooth finish, and then remove any dust with a tack cloth.
Step #3: Apply the Paint Next
Once the primer is dry and the surface is smooth, you can begin painting. Apply multiple thin coats, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next one. This will result in a more durable and professional-looking finish.
FAQ
How many coats of primer on bare wood?
One or two coats of primer are recommended on bare wood, depending on the condition of the wood and the type of primer being used. If the wood is in good condition, one coat may be sufficient. However, apply two coats to ensure full coverage if the wood has noticeable imperfections.
What is the best Zinsser primer for bare wood?
The best Zinsser product for bare wood is Zinsser 02004 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer. It works on various surfaces without sanding, dries quickly, blocks stains, and can be used with oil and latex topcoats. It also offers one coat hide, saving time and money.
How long does primer take to dry when applied on bare wood?
The drying time for a primer on bare wood can vary depending on the type of primer used, temperature, humidity, and thickness of the application. Generally, oil-based primers can take up to 24 hours to dry, while water-based primers can dry in as little as 30 minutes to 1 hour.
What brush should I use when applying primer on raw or bare wooden surfaces?
When selecting a brush, look for one with bristles made of nylon or polyester. When used with a primer, these synthetic materials will hold up better than natural bristles, which can be thicker and more viscous than paint. Additionally, synthetic bristles are less likely to absorb moisture.
What type of paint should I apply after priming raw wood?
The type of paint you should apply after priming raw wood will depend on the intended use of the wood and the location where it will be used.
For interior woodwork, use an interior latex or oil-based paint. For the exterior, use exterior paint that is designed to withstand the elements.
Should I add tints to primers?
Adding tints to primers can be beneficial, especially when painting with dark or vibrant topcoat colors. It can help the topcoat achieve better coverage and require fewer coats for full opacity, saving time and money.
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My Top Pick For a Primer for Bare Wood: Zinsser 02004 Bulls Eye 1-2-3 All Surface Primer
The Zinsser 02004 is my choice for the best primer for bare wood. It has a versatile application on a wide range of surfaces, even difficult ones.
It is a water-based formula that has excellent stain-blocking resistance and one coat hide feature. Also, this primer provides efficient coverage with an impressively quick drying time of 35 minutes to touch and readiness for a topcoat in just an hour.
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