Best Waterproofing Primer for Drywall: Top 5 Smart Pick 2024

Last Updated on January 20, 2023

Protecting your drywall from possible water damage is no easy feat. Traditional primers may not provide enough defense, plus they often contain potentially hazardous VOCs or reproductive toxins that can be harmful for the environment and people’s health. What options are available to guard against this?

You need to find the best waterproofing primer for drywall that will provide long-term protection without sacrificing quality or time. It needs to be easy to apply, have good coverage and offer multi-surface usability with no VOCs or reproductive toxins. Plus, it should prevent chipping and peeling while also protecting against the growth of particles.

From figuring out what criteria matters most when picking a primer, to putting together your perfect selection for any project, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in now with all there is to know about drywall-compatible sealants.

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No matter if you’re working on an interior or exterior space, these primers can help make sure your finished job looks great and is more water-resistant than ever before. We’ve broken down our review into five sections so you can quickly find the perfect waterproofing primer for your needs.

So whether you need a reliable sealer that will stand up to high humidity or something more lightweight and easier to apply, there’s sure to be something here that fits the bill. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at the best drywall primers for waterproofing available today.

1. Rust-Oleum Bullseye 2 Multi Purpose Waterproof Primer For Drywall

With Zinsser waterproof primer from Rust-Oleum, homeowners, contractors and DIYers can tackle those tricky drywall projects. This high-performance water based option provides superior adhesion and a variety of benefits making it the perfect solution for any wet wall challenge.

Here are some details about Rust-Oleum Zinsser 02004 primer:

No Sanding Needed

One of the most appealing features of the ‎Rust-Oleum Bullseye 2 multi purpose waterproof primer for drywall is that it eliminates the need for sanding before painting. Sanding can be time-consuming and often produces dust, which can be hazardous if not properly cleaned up.

With this primer, there is no need for sanding because it provides superior adhesion without any prepping required. This saves time and effort while still providing outstanding results.

Prevents Paint from Chipping or Peeling

In addition to eliminating the need for sanding, this multi-purpose waterproof primer also helps prevent paint from chipping or peeling after application. This is due to its excellent adhesion properties.

When applied correctly, it forms a strong bond with most surfaces, resulting in a long-lasting finish that won’t chip or peel easily. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to ensure their paint job lasts longer than what traditional primers may provide. 

Useable On a Variety of Surfaces

It can be used on various surfaces, such as drywall, wood paneling, masonry, brick, etc. This makes it ideal for those who may have multiple different projects they want to work on without having to purchase multiple products. It’s also cost-effective. One quart can cover up to 87 to 112 square feet, depending on how thickly it’s applied.

Saves Time and Labor

Using the Zinsser Bullseye 2 multi-purpose primer saves time and labor during any painting project. Due to its quick drying time, about 60 minutes, you don’t have to wait very long before applying additional coats or topcoats of paint over your primer layer.

Also, due to its low VOC content, clean-up is easy. Simply wash down any exposed areas with soap and water when finished working with them for optimal results.

Easy To Use

This primer is easy enough for beginners as well as experienced professionals alike. When applying, all you must do is stir the contents in its container, then spread evenly over the primed surface using a brush, roller, or spray gun.

Once dried, your surface should be ready to touch the paint within just thirty-five minutes. And unlike some other primers, this one has little odor, so you won’t have unpleasant fumes wafting through your workspace while you work.

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2. INSL-X Stix Waterproofing Bonding Primer For Drywall

Protect your drywall from all sorts of environmental wear-and-tear with INSL-X Stix waterproofing bonding primer. Its strong bond ensures not only oil stains, unpleasant odors and streaks are kept at bay, but also peace of mind.

Check out more information about this INSL-X SXA11009A-04 Stix acrylic primer:

Bonds To a Variety of Surfaces

This drywall primer is the perfect bonding primer for both tile and drywall surfaces. It adheres firmly to a variety of surfaces including wood, masonry, stucco, metal, vinyl and fiberglass. The unique formula of this product ensures that it penetrates deep into these surfaces for maximum hold, creating an unbeatable bond that will last for years.

And this primer can be added directly to existing paint films without needing additional layers or primers, allowing you to save time on your project. 

Covers Tile and Drywall Well

The INSL-X SXA11009A-04 drywall primer provides excellent coverage over both tile and drywall surfaces. Its high solids content ensures that it covers more area than regular primers while offering better protection with less effort.

This primer can be used as a stand-alone product or in combination with other products such as paints or sealants for added protection against water damage on new construction or remodels.

Prevents Reappearance of Oil Stains

This waterproofing bonding primer is ideal for preventing the reappearance of oil stains on drywall or tile surfaces. Its special formula contains binders that ensure oil-based stains are locked in place so they won’t come back after being cleaned up once the primer has been applied. This product also acts as an adhesive between two different types of materials.

No Bad Odor and Looks Amazing

Unlike many other primers on the market today, INSL-X Stix does not give off any unpleasant smells while applying nor does it leave behind a lingering smell afterwards either. Besides hiding blemishes in your walls, this product is excellent at covering up minor imperfections due to its excellent opacity.

With its low VOC content levels too you won’t have to worry about any air pollution being created while using this paint primer either which makes it even more attractive compared to traditional primers out there today.

Easy To Use And Lasts A Long Time

Its meaning anyone with basic DIY skills can apply this product within a few hours using brush rollers or spray guns. Plus, with its superior durability, you won’t have to keep continuously replacing your primer anytime soon either.

With this one, you’ll feel reassured about your investment since it should hold up against moisture ingress for a long time.

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3. Rust Oleum Mold Killing Waterproofing Primer for Drywall

Rust Oleum primer for drywall is the perfect way to get your painting job done quickly and easily. Its versatile formula stops particles growing on walls while ensuring complete coverage, no matter whether you’re working with a light or dark color underneath.

Below are some more details about Rust-Oleum 276087 mold-killing primer:

Prevents the Growth of Particles

Rust Oleum mold killing waterproofing primer for drywall is specially formulated to prevent mold and mildew growth, as well as other microscopic organisms. The primer forms a coating over existing paint and drywall, which locks out moisture and effectively kills off any living spores that may be lingering on the surface.

Furthermore, this protection lasts for a long time, retaining its effectiveness even in humid climates or areas prone to high levels of moisture such as basements or bathrooms. This makes Rust Oleum ideal for homes in wetter regions that are also prone to humidity-related mold growth. 

Quick Project Completion

This primer dries quickly so you can start painting shortly after application. This helps speed up the project timeline significantly and saves time compared to using other primers that require several hours before you can move on to painting.

And one coat of this primer is enough for most surfaces so there’s no need for multiple applications. It also results in a quicker completion time and allows you to save on materials since you won’t have to purchase more than you need.

Can Be Used With Any Topcoat

Rust Oleum waterproofing primer works with almost any topcoat of your choice, like latex paint, oil-based paint, alkyd resin-based paint. So you can mix and match as needed for whatever project you’re doing without worrying about compatibility issues.

Not only does this product provide superior protection against water damage but it can also work with almost any type of finish whether it be satin gloss or flat matte making it extremely versatile in terms of end results.

Covers Up Bright or Dark Colors Easily

The paint primer itself has an opaque/matte finish which helps even out darker shades while providing a solid base layer that incorporates evenly with the topcoat color of your choice regardless if it’s lighter or darker than the original wall tone underneath.

This makes it very convenient when repainting rooms with bolder colors since there’s no need for numerous coats or extra work involved in covering them up properly.

Economical and Covers Large Areas

In addition to being incredibly efficient when covering up bold colors on walls, Rust-Oleum 276087 mold killing primer is also extremely cost effective compared to other primers available on the market today. Because it has strong coverage capabilities that require just one coat per area being painted.

This means fewer materials are used overall, resulting in big savings, especially on bigger projects. If you’re painting a whole house or an apartment with many rooms, it’ll take a long time to paint with more expensive primers. Also, they’d have to apply multiple coats to get the same level of protection Rust Oleum offers with just one coat.

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4. Prestige Interior Waterproofing Primer For Drywall

Achieve superior finished results with ease using Prestige interior waterproofing primer for drywall. It is specially designed to deliver a smooth, even coating on interior walls and ceilings while protecting them from moisture buildup and dirt.

Here are some critical details about PRESTIGE ‎30ABC-30Y-PARENT primer:

One-swipe Coverage

The Prestige 30ABC-30Y-PARENT primer is designed for one-swipe coverage. This means that you can easily apply this paint primer with just one pass of your brush, roller, or spray gun.

This primer is thick enough to cover in one application without having to go back over the same area. It saves time and effort when painting larger surfaces and ensures an even finish without having to worry about streaks or missed spots.

VOC-free and No Reproductive Toxins

This primer for drywall is completely free of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). This means that there are no toxic chemicals present in the formula, making it safe to use indoors without causing any harm to people or pets in the home.

And there are also no reproductive toxins present in this formula making it ideal for pregnant women and young children who may be living in the home as well. This ensures complete safety when applying this primer indoors and allows you peace of mind knowing that your family will remain protected from any harmful materials during painting projects.

Smooth Application

The formula used for the Prestige interior primer is designed to provide an incredibly smooth finish once applied. This eliminates any visible brush strokes or roller marks so that your final coatings look professional and uniform across your entire surface area.

And due to its consistency, this paint primer will not run down walls when applied vertically or drip off when being painted horizontally. It is common for other primers on the market today to have both of these characteristics.

Ideal for Interior Use

Due to its low VOC content and lack of reproductive toxins, the Prestige primer makes an ideal choice for interior painting projects where you want a safe yet effective solution.

This incredible product provides a guaranteed shield against moisture and dampness, perfect for those high-humidity areas like bathrooms. No more worries about mold growth due to poor preparation: the waterproof nature of this product keeps everything dry.

Covers Up Preexisting Colors Easily

The Prestige Interior Waterproofing Primer For Drywall has the ability to make painting projects a breeze! It acts as an excellent base coat, allowing you to create vibrant new colors on walls and ceilings over preexisting hues.

In addition to covering up dark shades with just one layer of primer and saving time in the process, it also offers great filling properties. You can fix any holes or dents before you start decorating so you don’t have to worry about those pesky imperfections standing in the way of your desired finish.

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5. Draw Tite Joint Compound Waterproofing Primer For Drywall

Treat your drywall to some long-lasting protection with Draw Tite Clear SP-325C waterproofing primer. This economical fix seals joints fast and keeps the stress at bay – no extra primers or paste required.

Here’s why Draw Tite Clear SP-325C primer is suitable for drywall:

Waterproofs and Seals Joints

This waterproofing primer provides superior protection against moisture damage, helping to prevent leaks and water intrusion. It also effectively seals joints between drywall sheets, allowing them to stick together better over time and ensuring they won’t come apart due to expansion/contraction caused by changing temperatures or humidity levels.

In addition to providing reliable waterproofing protection, this primer helps to promote better bonding between the joint compound and the wallboard surface for a stronger finished product.

Prevents Moisture Damage

Draw Tite not only helps seal joints but also prevents moisture from seeping in through any cracks or openings that may exist in the walls.

The primer’s waterproofing properties help keep water out of your walls, reducing the risk of unsightly mold growth or other damage caused by prolonged exposure to moisture. Not only does this reduce the risk of costly repairs down the line, but it also helps extend the life expectancy of your walls overall.

Dries Quickly

The Draw Tite joint compound waterproofing primer for drywall has a fast drying time so you don’t have to wait long before continuing with your project. Simply allow each layer of primer at least one hour before coating with joint compound.

This greatly reduces labor costs since you don’t have to wait too long between steps in order to begin working on different areas of your drywall job without worrying about waiting excessively long between layers of primer application. 

Saves Time And Money

Draw Tite can help you save both time and money when working on your drywall project due to its fast drying times, allowing you to move onto other tasks sooner rather than later while still achieving excellent results with its waterproofing capabilities.

And because one gallon covers up to 325 square feet, this product can provide an economical solution for projects large and small alike that helps you get even more bang for your buck.

Easy To Use With Brush Or Roll On

Due to its brushable or roll-on application techniques, this waterproofing primer is easy to use by DIYers and professionals, making it versatile enough to use on any project, no matter how big or small. Plus, its easy adhesion means minimal prep work is required before applying it. You will be able to take care of business faster than ever before.

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The Best Waterproofing and Stain-Blocking Primer for Drywall:

Product	Color	Finish Type	Special Feature	Paint Type	Usage
‎Rust-Oleum Zinsser 02004	White	Matte	‎Stain Resistant	Water Based	Interior & Exterior
INSL-X SXA11009A-04	White	Flat	Touch in 30 minutes	Acrylic	Interior & Exterior
Rust-Oleum 276087	White	Matte	Mold killing	Water Based	Interior & Exterior
PRESTIGE 30ABC-30Y-PARENT	‎Sea Wall	Semi Gloss	Brighten appearance	Acrylic	Interior
DRAW TITE Clear SP-325C	Clear	Glossy	Pail/Can included	Oil, Spray, Watercolor	Interior

How to Choose the Best Drywall Primer for Waterproofing?

When choosing a drywall primer for waterproofing, it is important to consider a number of factors in order to choose the best waterproof paint for drywall or primer for a drywall for the job. Here we will discuss how to choose the right drywall primer with regards to each of these features.

Color and Finish Type

When looking for a drywall primer for waterproofing, one of the key considerations should be the color and finish type. Depending on where it is going to be used, different colors may be necessary while specific finishes create varying degrees of appearance.

Primers come in a variety of shades from light gray to white and even pink so that an ideal match can usually be found for any particular project.

Finishes also range from glossy smooth to textured matte which can drastically alter the look of a surface. And some primers are designed specifically for high humidity surfaces such as bathrooms or damp basements which require more protection than those in regular settings.

Multi Surface Usability

Another point of consideration when selecting a drywall primer is multi surface usability. Many primers are designed only to be used on one type of material such as wood or plaster however there are some products available that are able to be applied across multiple materials including brick, concrete, and vinyl siding.

This makes them incredibly versatile and cost effective as they can reduce the need for purchasing multiple products when working on multiple surfaces in one area or on several projects throughout a house or building.

Quick Project Completion

Many people select drywall primers based on their ability to help complete projects quickly and efficiently while still providing good results. There are some water-based primers that allow paint jobs to begin quickly without waiting long drying periods before proceeding with other projects or tasks.

These products are often especially helpful for those who need quick results but still want good quality outcomes as well such as contractors who have tight deadlines or homeowners who want their walls painted fast but still done properly with no compromise on quality.

No VOCs or Reproductive Toxins

When selecting drywall primer, choose one that does not contain any volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or reproductive toxins. VOCs are organic chemical compounds that easily evaporate into the air and can cause health issues such as headaches, dizziness, difficulty breathing and eye, nose and throat irritation.

Reproductive toxins, meanwhile, can disrupt the development of an unborn baby if inhaled or ingested by a pregnant woman. Fortunately, many drywall primers have been reformulated over the years to keep them VOC-free so they are safe for use in homes with children and pregnant women without risk of health threats.

Chipping or Peeling Protection

Drywall primers for waterproofing often come with chipping and peeling protection which is essential when you want to protect your walls from water damage. It prevents moisture from getting into the substrate and causing mold growth or peeling paint when applied properly according to manufacturer instructions.

This also helps reduce maintenance costs because you will not need to re-apply paint as often due to moisture penetration. It’s best to select a drywall primer with at least two coats of protection against chipping and peeling. This will ensure your walls stay protected even during periods of heavy rains or flooding.

Prevent Growth of Particles

Some drywall primers are formulated specifically to help prevent the growth of particles on painted surfaces. This is particularly important in areas prone to mold growth due to high humidity levels such as bathrooms or laundry rooms.

Mold spores thrive in warm moist environments but can be prevented from growing when exposed to certain chemicals within certain drywall primers. These chemicals alter the pH level of surfaces by creating an acidic environment which prevents mold spores from germinating.

Thus helping keep walls free from potential problems caused by mold infestation. When picking drywall primer for waterproofing, check the label carefully. Make sure they have fungicides like zinc oxide or sodium benzoate that prevent mold growth.

Use with Any Topcoat

In choosing a drywall primer for waterproofing purposes, it’s important to select one that allows you flexibility when it comes time to apply your top coat or finish coat of paint after the primer has dried completely.

Generally speaking, most water-based varieties allow you greater versatility since they work well with both latex-based paints and oil-based paints. Choosing a water-based primer will give you the most flexibility when choosing your top coat color so that you’re not limited by compatibility issues later on.

Good Coverage

The best drywall primers will have good coverage rates, allowing them to cover a large area with very little product. Generally speaking, high-quality primers should offer coverage of at least 80 to 100 square feet per quart. This means that a single gallon of primer will be able to cover an entire room or other large space with ease.

High-quality products are designed with this in mind, ensuring that there won’t be any issues when layering multiple coats or switching between different colors and shades. Some brands offer formulas designed to maximize adhesion and reduce prep work before painting for better coverage.

Interior/Exterior Use

Another key factor when selecting a drywall primer for waterproofing is its versatility in terms of interior and exterior use. Many products are designed specifically for either interior or exterior applications, so it is essential to choose one which works well both indoors and outdoors.

Look for primers that have been formulated for all-purpose use. These should offer strong resistance against water intrusion as well as excellent adhesion capabilities on various surfaces like wood, plaster, masonry, and more. It will ensure you both interior or exterior walls are properly protected against water damage.

Easy to Use Apply Method

Applying primer correctly is key for achieving the desired results, so select one that is easy enough for you or someone else in your home to apply correctly. Generally speaking, paints with built-in applicators such as brushes or rollers are easier than those that require spraying or using other tools like sponges or rags.

And look at the instructions listed on the product packaging before making a purchase. If they’re unclear, this could indicate that the product is difficult to use properly.

Do I Need To Prime Drywall Before Waterproofing?

It is highly recommended to prime your drywall before applying any kind of waterproofing material. Primers are specifically made to enhance adhesion between wall surfaces and paints or other materials, so they can provide better protection against any water damage.

Primers also help create an even surface so your waterproofing product will cover more area and last longer. When selecting a primer, make sure to choose one that is specifically designed for use on drywall and is compatible with the waterproofing product you plan on using.

Can I Put Waterproofing Primer Directly On Drywall?

Yes, it is possible to put a liquid waterproofing membrane directly on drywall as a primer before painting. This type of membrane creates a protective coating that helps keep moisture from seeping into the drywall material and causing damage such as mold and rot.

When applying the primer, you should use an even coat and make sure to cover all seams and corners of the drywall for maximum effectiveness. And many waterproofing primers are designed to be applied with a brush or roller for easier application.

What Happens If You Don’t Use Waterproofing Primer on Drywall?

If you don’t use waterproofing primer when painting drywall, you run the risk of experiencing uneven coverage because the paint won’t adhere properly without it. And there is no barrier between the paint and the wall so moisture can easily seep into any cracks or crevices causing damage such as mold growth or rotting of the drywall material over time.

Not only does this create an unsightly appearance but it can also lead to health problems if inhaled. That’s why it’s important to always use a primer when painting walls in order to ensure that your paint job looks great for years to come and your home remains healthy and safe for everyone living inside it.

What Can You Put On Drywall to Make It Waterproof?

A waterproofing primer for drywall is typically the best way to make it waterproof. This type of primer is designed specifically for protecting drywall from moisture, and also helps to reduce problems with mold and mildew buildup.

The primer works by creating an impermeable barrier on the surface of the drywall, which prevents water from penetrating through to the interior. It also helps to lock in any existing moisture that is already present in the wall, preventing it from becoming vaporized and causing further damage.

Depending on the type of waterproofing primer used, some products may also provide additional protection against fire, fungus, bacteria, and other external elements.

How Long Does Waterproofing Primer Take To Dry On Drywall?

Most waterproofing primers for drywall take around 35 minutes before they are ready to be touched or painted over. But you should always refer to the instructions on your specific product as drying times can vary between brands and formulations.

To achieve optimal results, it is essential to allow the primer a minimum of 24 hours to settle before applying any top coat. While further waiting may be needed between coats depending on desired outcome, a 48-hour standstill ensures maximum protection and longevity against wear and tear.

Do You Need a Special Primer for Drywall Waterproofing?

Yes, special primers are needed when looking at waterproof drywall. Regular paint primers are not suitable as they will not create a tight seal against water penetration like a waterproofing primer would.

Products such as Rust-Oleum multi purpose waterproof primer for drywall can help protect against water damage while also providing a layer of protection against fungi growth, bacteria build-up, fire resistance and other external elements. Over time, these could cause structural damage or deterioration.

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose waterproof primer that ticks all the must-have boxes, Rust-Oleum’s is top of the line. Enjoy superior protection from chipping and peeling plus non toxic coverage without VOCs or reproductive toxins. And don’t forget easy applications so your project can be finished with minimal hassle.

Still undecided? Take a look at our other picks for the best waterproofing primer for drywall before making a decision about how you want to protect your drywall. Good luck!