Top 5 Ranked Products
We analyzed millions of Amazon products to handpick the top recommendations just for you.

#1 Ranked
Stone Coat Countertops Black Epoxy Undercoat - A Perfect Epoxy Paint and Primer for Coating MDF, Plywood, and Porous Materials, Ideal for DIY Epoxy Countertop Kit! (1 Quart, 32 Fl Oz, Black)
Price: $16.99
Rating: ★★★★★
ASIN: B089P3NTRT
Score: 96%
Overview:
The Stone Coat Countertops Black Epoxy Undercoat is a specialized epoxy paint and primer designed to enhance various surfaces, particularly for DIY epoxy countertop projects. With a focus on versatility, this undercoat can be applied to materials such as MDF, plywood, and other porous surfaces, providing a robust foundation for further epoxy applications. It is tailored to work seamlessly with Stone Coat Countertops epoxy resin kits, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing finish that boasts a high gloss appearance.
This product not only simplifies the application process—thanks to its compatibility with a Microfiber Roller Kit—but also prioritizes safety with its non-toxic formulation. The undercoat is easy to clean and suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects, making it a practical choice for kitchen, garage, and bathroom refinishing. With a coverage area of up to 40 square feet, the 1 Quart (32 Fl Oz) supply is ample for multiple applications, making it an economical option for extensive projects.
Pros:
- Versatile Application: Can be used on a wide range of surfaces including countertops, cabinets, and appliances.
- Safe and Non-Toxic: Made with non-hazardous materials, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Ample Quantity Supplied: Covers up to 40 square feet, ideal for larger projects.
Cons:
- Limited Color Options: Available only in black, which may not suit all design preferences.
- Requires Two Coats: Need for multiple applications may increase project time and effort.
- Specific Compatibility: Best results are achieved only when used with Stone Coat Countertops epoxy kits.

#2 Ranked
Rust-Oleum ZINSSER 1 qt 02004 White, Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Based Stain Blocking Primer/Sealer
Price: $14.76
Rating: ★★★★★
ASIN: B000H5VKBQ
Score: 95%
Overview:
The Rust-Oleum ZINSSER Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a versatile water-based stain-blocking primer and sealer designed for both interior and exterior applications. Suitable for a wide range of surfaces including drywall, concrete, wood, masonry, metal, and even glossy finishes, this primer ensures a strong adhesion without the need for sanding. It dries quickly, allowing for topcoating within an hour, and covers a substantial area of 87-112 square feet per quart, making it efficient for larger projects. Its excellent stain-blocking capabilities make it a reliable choice for preventing stains from bleeding through topcoats.
The product's one coat hide feature significantly enhances the coverage of subsequent layers, saving both time and material costs. Additionally, it can be applied in cooler temperatures, starting from 35 degrees Fahrenheit, which adds to its usability in various weather conditions. Overall, the Rust-Oleum ZINSSER Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is an effective primer that caters to various painting needs while ensuring quality and durability.
Pros:
- Versatile Application: Suitable for multiple surfaces, enhancing its usability across different projects.
- Quick Drying Time: Dries to the touch in 35 minutes, allowing for efficient project completion.
- Excellent Stain Blocking: Prevents stains from bleeding through, ensuring a clean finish with topcoats.
Cons:
- Coverage Limitations: While it covers a decent area, larger projects may require multiple quarts.
- Temperature Sensitivity: Although it can be applied in low temperatures, extreme cold may affect performance.
- Water-Based Limitations: As a water-based primer, it may not perform as well in high-humidity environments compared to oil-based alternatives.

#3 Ranked
Krylon 12 oz K05584007 White COLORmaxx Paint & Primer Spray Paint, Primer
Price: $8.75
Rating: ★★★★★
ASIN: B07LFWPFLC
Score: 94%
Overview:
The Krylon 12 oz K05584007 White COLORmaxx Paint & Primer Spray Paint is a versatile and efficient solution for various indoor and outdoor painting projects. This product is designed to combine both paint and primer in one, offering users a streamlined application process. Its fast-drying formula ensures that projects can be completed quickly without sacrificing quality, while its rust protection and fade resistance enhance the longevity of the finish on multiple surfaces including metal, wood, plastic, and more.
The spray paint features an easy-push, big-button tip that allows for convenient spraying from any angle, including upside down, which is particularly useful for hard-to-reach areas. The excellent durability and adhesion make it suitable for a wide range of applications, ensuring that users can achieve a professional-looking finish with minimal effort.
Pros:
- Fast Drying: Allows for quick project completion and minimal wait time between coats.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for various surfaces such as metal, wood, plastic, and fabric.
- User-Friendly Design: Easy-push, big-button tip enables spraying from any angle, enhancing accessibility.
Cons:
- Limited Color Options: May not cater to all aesthetic preferences due to a restricted color palette.
- Overspray Potential: Spray application can lead to overspray, requiring careful masking of surrounding areas.
- Short Coverage: The 12 oz can may not be sufficient for larger projects, necessitating multiple cans.

#4 Ranked
FolkArt, Clear Primer, 8 oz, 8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Price: $5.79
Rating: ★★★★☆
ASIN: B085M3KZX7
Score: 96%
Overview:
The FolkArt Clear Primer is a versatile, water-based product designed to prepare surfaces for painting. With an 8 oz bottle that covers approximately 20 square feet, it provides a clear finish that enhances adherence and durability of subsequent layers of paint. This primer is non-toxic, making it suitable for a variety of projects, including those involving children or indoor applications.
The clear formulation allows for the natural beauty of the underlying surface to show through, making it ideal for a range of materials such as wood, metal, and canvas. Its ease of use and quick-drying properties contribute to a streamlined painting process, enabling artists and DIY enthusiasts to achieve professional results without the hassle of traditional primers.
Pros:
- Water-Based: Easy to clean up with soap and water, making it user-friendly.
- Non-Toxic: Safe for indoor use and suitable for projects involving children.
- Clear Finish: Allows the original surface to remain visible, enhancing the final appearance.
Cons:
- Coverage Limitations: While it covers approximately 20 sq ft, larger projects may require multiple bottles.
- Drying Time: May take longer to dry compared to some solvent-based primers.
- Surface Compatibility: Not all surfaces may adhere well without proper preparation, limiting versatility.

#5 Ranked
FloorPops FPP4182W Peel Stick Tile Primer, White & Off-White
Price: $17.00
Rating: ★★★★☆
ASIN: B096W6L8FC
Score: 85%
Overview:
The FloorPops FPP4182W Peel Stick Tile Primer is designed specifically for preparing surfaces before the application of FloorPops peel and stick floor tiles. This latex-based primer ensures optimal adhesion by creating a suitable base on sound, dry, and clean surfaces free from contaminants. Its application requires a short nap paint roller or a coarse fiber brush, and it is crucial to apply the primer liberally while allowing it to be absorbed fully by the surface.
This primer is essential for achieving the best results with peel and stick tiles, as it enhances the longevity and durability of the flooring. Users must take care not to dilute the primer and should avoid leaving excess product on the surface to prevent complications during installation. Overall, the FloorPops primer is a specialized solution for anyone looking to install peel and stick tiles effectively.
Pros:
- Optimal Adhesion: Ensures strong bonding between the tile and the surface, enhancing durability.
- Easy Application: Can be applied using common tools like paint rollers or brushes, making it user-friendly.
- Latex-Based: Environmentally friendly and easy to clean up with water, reducing hassle during application.
Cons:
- Surface Requirements: Must be applied to sound, dry, and clean surfaces, which may limit its usability in some conditions.
- Absorption Time: Requires time for the surface to absorb, which may delay the installation process.
Product Information & Tips
Overview
When it comes to preparing plywood for painting or staining, selecting the right primer is crucial for achieving a smooth, durable finish. Plywood surfaces can be porous and uneven, making it essential to choose a primer that effectively seals the wood, enhances adhesion, and provides a solid base for topcoats. The best primer for plywood will not only improve the appearance of the final product but also increase the longevity of the finish.
In the market, there are various types of primers, including oil-based, water-based, and shellac-based options. Each type has its unique properties and benefits, making it important for users to understand their specific needs and the characteristics of the primers available. This analysis will help identify the key criteria to consider when selecting the best primer for plywood and answer common questions related to the topic.
Key Criteria
1. Type of Primer:
- The choice between oil-based, water-based, or shellac-based primers significantly affects adhesion and drying time. Oil-based primers are ideal for sealing and blocking stains, while water-based options are easier to clean and dry faster.
2. Sealing Properties:
- A good primer should effectively seal the porous surface of plywood to prevent moisture absorption. This is crucial for avoiding warping and ensuring a smooth finish.
3. Adhesion:
- The primer must adhere well to plywood to provide a strong foundation for subsequent layers of paint or stain. Poor adhesion can lead to peeling and chipping over time.
4. Drying Time:
- Quick-drying primers allow for faster project completion and can be particularly beneficial in time-sensitive situations. Understanding the drying time helps in planning subsequent application steps.
5. Stain Blocking:
- If the plywood has knots or other blemishes, a primer with stain-blocking properties can prevent these imperfections from bleeding through the final coat, ensuring a clean and uniform appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best type of primer for outdoor plywood?
A1: Oil-based primers are often recommended for outdoor plywood due to their superior sealing and moisture resistance.
Q2: Can I use latex paint over an oil-based primer?
A2: Yes, latex paint can be applied over an oil-based primer, but it's essential to ensure the primer is fully cured for optimal adhesion.
Q3: How many coats of primer should I apply to plywood?
A3: Typically, one to two coats of primer are sufficient, depending on the porosity of the plywood and the desired finish.
Q4: Is a primer necessary for plywood before painting?
A4: Yes, using a primer is essential as it helps seal the wood, improve adhesion of the paint, and enhance the overall finish.
Q5: Can I use wall primer on plywood?
A5: While wall primers can be used, it's better to choose a primer specifically formulated for wood to ensure the best results in terms of adhesion and sealing.