6 Best Primer Sealer After Skim Coat [No Bubbles]

Applying a skim coat is an effective way to achieve a smooth surface, but to protect your work and ensure long-lasting results, you need the best primer sealer after skim coat.

Without a proper primer, issues like bubbles, peeling, or uneven paint coverage can arise, ruining the flawless finish you’re aiming for.

A high-quality primer sealer creates a solid foundation, allowing your paint to adhere better and protect the surface from moisture or imperfections.

In this 2024 review guide, we’ll introduce you to the top 6 primer sealers after skim coating drywall, chosen for their superior performance in sealing and smoothing various surfaces.

These products are specifically designed to penetrate and bond with a skim-coated surface, effectively eliminating common problems such as bubbling and uneven drying.

With the right primer sealer, you can ensure your walls or ceilings maintain their smooth finish and provide excellent paint adhesion for a professional result.

Whether you’re working on drywall, plaster, or even cement surfaces, Our top picks will help you achieve perfect coverage, durability, and bubble-free finishes. Also, ensuring your paint application looks flawless every time.

Top 6 Drywall Primer to use after Skim Coating :

Which Types of Primer Sealer to Apply after Skim Coating Drywall?

Not all types of primer-sealer are applicable for the drywall on which skim coating has been applied. As skim coating produces bubbles, these bubbles need to be canceled. Besides, you might witness blistering on the drywall after skim coating. This is the same thing as the bubbles.

However, many people use different types of primer sealer but don’t know a fact that water-based primer sealer is not applicable after skim coating drywall. It’s because that adds more mess and it doesn’t set on the coating. And if there is sanding dust on the drywall, then the situation gets worsened. Therefore, it’s important to know the effective types of primer-sealer that work after skim coating drywall.

a) Oil Primer:

When water-based primer sealer seems like a hopeless case, oil primer shows a radiant in the case. However, oil primer is not entirely a hopeful case as it can mess up your drywall even harder if you don’t apply it properly. The intention of the primer is to make the skim coating warped with hard bonding.

This will help to cause no bubbles farther from the skim coating and tighten the layers significantly. However, this primer makes a perfect base and prepares the skim-coated drywall for the application of painting or staining.

b) Acrylic Primer:

If there is less sign of bubbles from skim coating drywall, then you can consider using an acrylic primer. It’s quite a go-to primer for a situation where a little spackling has happened. However, acrylic primer is also capable to tackle tough situations as well.

It provides a very uniform finish and makes the wall flat for aesthetic pleasure. But acrylic primer works better if you use an acrylic topcoat as well. Also, make sure the wall is dusted and cured properly before applying the primer.

c) Problem Solving Primer:

Problem-solving primer is a very reliable and arguable water-based primer to make skim coating free of trouble. Applying the primer after the finished skim coat will allow the drywall to have a clear flat appearance. You can apply this versatile primer not only on drywall but also on multiple surfaces including melamine material or glossy surfaces.

This primer is formulated to fill the little pore of the wall consistently. It also has great adhesion. Therefore, painting with a top coat will be a fun job if you use this primer sealer in circumstances like these.

6 Best Primer Sealers After Skim Coat to Cover Up Drywall Imperfections:

Primer sealers are definitely a useful substance to fix things. Therefore you’ll get to know hundreds of primer sealers in the market. But they don’t come with the same quality and features. Different manufacturers produce different types of primer sealers. But the best one is tough to find out. We took the responsibility and found out the best ones to give a justification for the skim coating.

1. Zinsser 02301 Clear Zinsser:

Zinsser 02301 Clear Zinsser is our top pick because it prepares the wall by healing the tear and gauges and seal skim coating effectively. This water-based sealer has a formula that fits any interior walls, ceilings, and substrates. If you want a precise base or seamless finishing, this sealer is your go-to product.

Also, it creates a smooth canvas on the wall if you want to paint it afterward. The base never cracks and makes your paint look vivid after it dries. Besides, the adhesion of the sealer is top-notch in one word. When it dries, it leaves a tint of white or milky blue. This tint makes the wall look new and can efface the odd-looking residue from it.

Moreover, it protects the wall from further cracking or tearing. This sealer is efficient in eliminating the bubbles that happen due to different kinds of coatings. It also contributes to rescuing drywall, blistered walls, wounded plasters, etc. The best advantages you can get from this sealer are that it is effortless to apply and takes less time to give a transparent or clear flat finish.

Also, this primer sealer is quite popular among DIYers. This product is still received by them with many positive vibes. But, some claim that the sealer is a little high-maintenance. In this case, you should learn the basics of using the product before applying it to your wall.

Things We Liked:

• The best and suitable solution for interior walls, ceilings, and surfaces
• 1 gallon of the sealer covers 459 square feet of space at its best
• Provides a very milky texture on a wall while leaves a clear effect
• Makes the wall prepare for painting and removes the bubbles of the wall
• It heals wounded walls and comes with an odor-less formula

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Requires a little professionalism of the users
• The deep coating might cause dripping of the primer from the wall

2. KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Latex Primer:

If you want a water-based primer for both interior and exterior walls then go for KILZ Premium High-Hide Stain Blocking Latex Primer without any doubt. It works as complete magic by removing an old stain, residue, and old paint. Besides, it dries giving a cordial finish to the wall with its utmost adhesive capability. No porous or gauged space can be spared if you apply this magical primer to it.

This primer comes with a very reliable formula that provides immense consistency in the wall. It even covers the toughest crevice with professionalism. Once you apply this quality primer to your interior or exterior wall, you will not have to worry about the growth of the unruly mold and mildew. Besides, it’s easy to clean outdoor surfaces since this is a water-based primer.

From drywall, paneling, or woodwork to bathrooms, sink, or laundry, this primer works incredibly. It resists any tough or fluctuated weather and therefore it will not be a loss if you use this for exterior purposes. With great adhesion, it stands the humidity like a pro. KILZ produces this primer to block stains to a certain range and shortens the crevices and spackles on and on.

However, this primer is supposed to use on latex-based paint. You can use it on the oil-based stain as well if the place is smooth and free of dust and grease. The primer spreads no bad odor and is not formulated with VOCs. People from different areas have appreciated the quality of the primer to a great extent.

Things We Liked:

• Provides a well-uniformed and consistent finish
• Resists humidity of the air and mold and mildew from the wall
• Comes with a quality texture with zero VOCs and works on several materials
• 1 gallon of the primer is able to cover 300-400 square feet of space
• Able to block stains that are clear to medium colors and satins

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Cannot block deep- colored paint or stain from wall or surface

3. INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer:

If you want an enamel-like adhesion, then INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix Acrylic Waterborne Bonding Primer is the best choice for you. This acrylic-urethane primer comes with an amazing formula. This formula provides bonding and is applicable for any kind of tough surface including PVC, glass, drywall, fiberglass, metal, and so on.

The primer provides the unrealistic coating with durability. Besides, it can block any gauges or crevices of the most challenging surfaces. The unparalleled finishing of the primer also provides an unconditional advantage to the users. This reputed primer is the first choice for professionals who find it hard to coat any surface or wall because it can sit on any place and gives a satisfying finishing to the place.

However, this primer comes with some requirements as well. It suits better when the temperature is around 35 degrees F. At this temperature you’ll find the primer sealed on the surface with super adhesion. Besides, the low VOC of the product allows it to dry easily without any cracking or damage. This acrylic-based primer is also easy to clean with only water and a bar of soap.

It leaves a great base on the surface and makes it ready for any kind of top coat finish. Besides, this primer is applicable for both interior and exterior surfaces and places where there is low temperature. Many people reviewed this product with a positive vibe as this primer is actually a great solution for professionals or amateurs.

Things We Liked:

• Provides very strong adhesion to the surface
• Fits in all kinds of toughest surfaces including glossy floor or ceramic surface
• Very easy to clean the surface while this primer is on
• Works super fast, dries quickly, and gets cured significantly
• Suitable in low temperature and covers up to 75-100 square feet per gallon

Things We Didn’t Like:

• It peels if it is not cured yet

4. ROMAN Products 16901 PRO-999 Rx-35 Problem Solving Primer:

This ROMAN Products 16901 PRO-999 Rx-35 Problem Solving Primer is a great source for fixing drywall with severe damage. Like other quality primers, this water-based primer is also able to meet the expectations level of people. The promising formula of the product helps to prevent the bubbles and block the porous surface, damaged walls, and so on. Also, this is the best primer for joint compounds.

Besides, the matte finish of the primer allows you to have a flat texture on the surface or wall. It also helps in enduring the depression of any other further coats. However, the time it takes to dry is also convincing because it provides a thin but promising coat. It blocks the old paint and covers the wall with the eye-soothing clear tint of the primer.

Also, the adhesion of the primer is powerful to long-last many years. The primer also makes it easy to apply it on the spot creating less mess. However, it dries leaving a residual tack on the surface. The consistency of the product won’t allow it to drip or run down the spot. For the skim coat, we found this product really favorable in all kinds of conditions like after skim coating.

For the amateurs or new DIY enthusiasts, this primer has been a blessing. As it does not require much to be applied on the spot, it helps to pack up with your job as soon as possible. Besides, the timetable of its applying and drying is so competitive and arguable. Also, the amount a tintable carries is huge to cover a medium-spaced hall.

Things We Liked:

• The availability of the product makes it popular among the users
• It is very easy to apply on the determined surface or wall
• The primer is not at all inconsistent and does not drip or run from its destined place
• Provides a cool formula and it’s easy to apply
• A great option for beginners and amateurs

Things We Didn’t Like:

• It cannot be used on versatile surfaces like glossy floors, plastic, ceramic tiles, and so on

5. Zinsser Rust-OLEUM 249933 1-2-3 Plus Quart:

Zinsser Rust-OLEUM 249933 1-2-3 Plus Quart is a renowned product of the United State for its tremendous workability. This EXT LTX primer is water-based, though has the characteristics of oil-based. And it is capable of giving a white finish look on many kinds of surfaces including tile, glass, wood, plaster, metal, concrete, and so on. It sticks to the material, surface, or wall showing a great adhesion. You can use this versatile primer to block old water stains, paint, or unnecessary residue.

Being a water-based primer, it doesn’t take much time to dry up. Rather it only takes about an hour to dry properly. Besides, you can have a satisfying white finish of your wall after it dries. This primer is used in almost all kinds of DIY or construction projects. Therefore, many professionals stick their hands to this primer to accomplish their precious jobs.

The best fact about the primer is you can use it to solve normal crevices of your drywall and make it work for commercial usages at the same time. The effectiveness of the formula works as long as you are applying it properly. It enriches the strength of the surface and wall by creating a fine base. This enhancement ensures the durability of the topcoat and saves the topcoat stains from scraping or flaking.

Besides, the formula of the primer takes care of the mold and mildew by preventing them from their bud. It not only can cover light colors but also blocks dark colors or paints from the wall. With low VOC and high penetrating ability, this primer also comes with a spray can. Most of the users have found the product very convenient but some faced troubles due to the patterns and designs of the can.

Things We Liked:

• A versatile primer that can be used on any material-based surface
• A thin coat of the primer is enough to block old light or dark stains
• Leaves a uniform finish and white finish look on the surface
• Dries quickly and comes with a convenient kit
• Great adhesion and can cover up 350 to 400 square feet per gallon

Things We Didn’t Like:

• The spray pattern of the can is not suitable for many users
• The nozzle of the can has a dripping problem

6. Liquid Rubber Concrete Foundation and Basement Sealant:

For a very protective arrangement, Liquid Rubber Concrete Foundation and Basement Sealant is indeed a very good option. From foundations to concrete or metal, this water-based primer is applicable on various surfaces. It works tremendously on preventing cracks and crevices of the wall with an elongation power of 900 percent.

You don’t have to go through any hassle while applying this primer after skim coating. Besides, it requires no addition of other elements as well. Applying it on the wall is the easiest task you’ll ever do. Besides, this primer is a great relief for the people who are aware of the safety of an environment because it is sustainable and environment-friendly.

Because it carries very few VOCs, it carries no bad odor. The primer ensures the safety of the lives of pets and kids where the primer is determined to be applied. Also, it is effective for both interior and exterior usage. For exterior usage, you don’t have to worry about the UV ray of the outside heat, because the primer has tolerance and durability.

This primer is popular mainly for its efficient formula and effectiveness. People have highly appreciated the product as it is also safe for the surrounding. For industrial to residential, this primer has a very well-known position.

Things We Liked:

• Very easy to apply and comes with sustainability
• Versatile both for commercial and residential work
• Able to give coverage to 50 square feet surface with each gallon
• The can be restored for the second use if there is any primer left
• Easy to clean the mess and save the surface from without any fail

Things We Didn’t Like:

• It takes a lot of time to be cured properly

How to Prime Walls after Skim Coating or Joint Compound?

After skim coating with joint compound, it’s needed to fill the void of the wall or surfaces to make it smooth and flat. This enhances the beauty and removes the side effect of skim coating as well. Besides, if you want to paint a skim coat then priming the wall is the primal job to do. But the process has to be right. Here is a little glimpse of the steps you should follow while priming a wall after skim coating.

Step 1: Prepare Everything:

The first thing you should do is to prepare important things like managing a quality primer and make your wall free of electric sockets and fancy hanging frames. Cover the surrounding as well for there’ll be a lot of dust and debris.

Try any Problem-solving primer or any high bonding Acrylic latex primer & stain blocker primer. Those types of primers are the best primer for joint compound uses.

Step 2: Wipe off the Dust:

The next job is to remove the dust and dirt from the wall. Use a sponge for this job. First, soak it in the water and make it damp. Then sweep the wall with the sponge and let it soak the sanding dust from the wall.

Step 3: Apply the Primer:

After sponging the wall, it’s time to apply the primer. You can use a roller to prime the wall. Follow a “W” or zigzag pattern for the right application. For narrow spaces use 3-6 inches brushes and apply properly. Then let the primer dry for some time.

Step 4: Sand the Primer:

If the primer dries, sand it in a back and forth motion and make it plain. Choose suitable sandpaper for the job. Remember to not make hard movements while sanding the primer because it might peel the primer off the wall.

Step 5: Apply a Second Coat of the Primer:

If it seems that the first coat of the primer is not enough to cover skim coating properly, better apply the second coat of it. To apply the second coat, use a damp sponge and remove the sanding dust from the first coat. Then use a paint roller and apply the second coat of the primer applying the same method as before and get your job done.

How do you cover up drywall imperfections?

Answer: Imperfections make the drywall looks filthy and it loses its durability because of the imperfect pores and voids. To cover these imperfections there is no better option than applying a joint compound skim coating. Apply the coating using a paint roller in a zigzag pattern. This will increase the texture of the wall and install a beautiful flat surface for painting as well.

FAQs:

Question: How soon can you prime after skim coat?

Answer: You cannot just apply primer after the application of the skim coat. You need to wait till a day or more than a day to let the coating set on the surface. After that, you need to sand the coat to wipe out the dust from it. Then you can apply the primer. If you use the primer-sealer before letting the skim coating set properly then the primer will not be effective at all.

Question: I sealed the drywall but got bubbles anyway. Now what?

Answer: It might be frustrating realizing the fact that the bubbles from the skim coating are not going no matter how many times you are applying the primer. In this case, you can simply follow a simple step to get rid of the trouble. Peel the paper because that is causing the main problem by creating bubbles and resisting the effect of the primer.

However, peeling the paper might seem a little troublesome when the skim coat dries. When it remains wet, then it becomes easy to peel more paper from the wall. A taping knife is great to peel off paper. After peeling it, let the wall be cured and then apply the primer newly again.

Question: Do I need primer after skim coating?

Answer: After skim coating, it creates bubbles and therefore it becomes an obstacle for painting on it. Besides, using a primer makes the wall smooth and flat as it fills the void and crevices of the wall. This texture is convenient for painting. Therefore, if you want to paint the surface and have a smooth finish then you need a primer for that.

But not all primer works well after skim coating, Try to use any problem-solving primer or any latex-based with stain blocker primer-sealer to use after skim coating. Those types of primer-sealer are the Best Primer Sealer after Skim Coat because the latex-based and high bonding stain-blocking formula covers the drywall imperfection & lasting longer.

Last Updated on September 28, 2024 by Rogers Weber

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