Sealer, Primer and Undercoat paints – choose the perfect finish for your home

Sealer Paint - A special type of primer is known as a sealer, used instead off or with a standard primer. A sealer paint provides a good adhesion between the substrate and the new paint primer.

Primer – The first coat applied to the substrate is called a Primer. 

A primer:

• Blocks stains and tannins out.
• Stops rust occurrence on a metal surface.
• Smooths out imperfections on a rough surface.
• Creates a barrier to stop moisture travelling from the substrate to the topcoat.
• Some primer properties assist in preventing mould and fungus from developing.

Undercoat - An undercoat is applied following the primer and before the initial layer of paint, filling in any minor imperfections to create a smooth and even-colored surface. The final finish will appear flawless if done properly. An undercoat also helps lighten a surface when changing from dark to pale color.

In simple words, undercoat paints are mostly used by handy professionals to further strengthen and elevate primer and sealer paint functions.

For a detailed understanding of the differences between a sealer, primer and undercoat, check out our blog.

Paint Access’s range of sealer, primer and undercoat paints

Who says painting has to be a chore? 

With Paint Access by your side, transforming your living space has never been easier or more enjoyable! 

We offer an extensive range of top-notch sealer, primer and undercoat paint products specially curated by our team of experts for superior performance.

Plus with lightning-fast shipping and unbeatable prices across Australia, tackling any painting project is a breeze!

So why settle for mediocre when you can get premium paint cans and paint supplies from trusted brands like Dulux, Rust Oleum, Zinsser and Haymes? 

Let us help transform your walls from drab to fab with ease with our top sealer, primer and undercoat paint ranges.

Achieving a paint finish that lasts requires the right foundation - which is where Dulux 1Step® Prep Water Based Primer, Sealer & Undercoat comes in. Thanks to its superior mould resistance and ability to block tannin and flash rust stains Dulux’s 1Step® Prep offers a shiny finish that will stand the test of time - both indoors and out. Whether you're painting walls or trim inside your home or tackling outdoor projects like awnings or fences this primer delivers excellent coverage without requiring any sanding on most surfaces.

But if it’s an oil based primer, Zinsser® Odourless Primer Sealer Stain Blocker has you covered. This powerhouse of a primer offers serious stain blocking power without any unpleasant solvent odours to contend with. Introducing our low VOC primer that’s specially created to seal tough stains in indoor areas where people are present. 

Some more features of the product:

• Seals stains from water, fire and smoke damage
• Gives oil based performance when there’s a concern for odour
• Non yellowing dries flat and sands easily
• Can be used with all topcoats
• Suitable for sprayable formulas that comply with VOC regulations

The Zinsser Bulls Eye 1 2 3 Undercoat Primer Sealer Stain Killer Range is perfect for sealing all porous surfaces like new wood, sheetrock and masonry. Plus it adheres to glossy materials like paint, tile, metal and hardboard. This killer primer sealer blocks out stains from cedar & redwood bleed graffiti, crayon marks and rust. 

It can be used both indoors and outdoors as it dries up fast whilst also leaving a low odour behind which can be cleaned up just by soap and water. 

Unlike traditional oil-based primers typically used for exterior applications, the Zinsser Bulls Eye 1 2 3 outperforms them in durability every time! Its powerful acrylic polymer formulation creates an exceptionally adhesive surface that permeates porous surfaces while also remaining flexible due to its breathable film quality. So no more worrying about flaking or cracking on soft wood surfaces!

What is a mould blocker?

A mould blocker is a specially-formulated substance designed to prevent mould from growing in your home. By creating a barrier between moisture and your surfaces, a mould blocker can stop the mould from taking root and causing all sorts of problems.

Think of it like a superhero shield for your home - it's there to protect you from those villainous mould spores that want nothing more than to take over your living space.

So, if you want to keep your home mould-free, grab yourself Dulux’s PRECISION Stain & mould blocker as this fast-drying, water-based formula has been specially developed to inhibit the growth of mould and mildew while simultaneously blocking stubborn stains from migrating through your topcoat. 

Rest confidently now knowing that Dulux’s PRECISION Stain & Mould Blocker offers ultimate protection for a lasting paint job.

Never worry about stains showing through your paint ever again!

A stain blocker paint is a type of paint that is designed to be highly resistant to staining and easy to clean. It is typically made with a high-quality acrylic resin that helps to create a barrier against stains. Stain blocker paint is often used in areas where there is a high risk of staining, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Transforming your home should be a fun project without any stressful surprises. 

So when it comes to tricky stains like graffiti or grease that stubbornly cling to your walls despite multiple attempts at cleaning them off - what do you do? 

Simple - use stain block paint! By applying this type of paint prior to decorating you can rest assured that those persistent blemishes won't show up again later on. For the best results in blocking out tough stains during your painting job with a wide variety of materials such as wood (mdf timber) plywood brick render masonry concrete etc. we highly recommend using Dulux Precision White Maximum Strength Adhesion Primer. This primer is specially developed for use on difficult to coat surfaces and can adhere firmly even to glossy or smooth surfaces without the need for sanding work. It also boasts excellent coverage against dark colored spots because it is specifically designed to prevent tannin, smoke, graffiti marks as well as water and grease stains from resurfacing. Plus you won't have any worries about its applicability since it works with almost any material! 

If, besides tough to remove stains caused by things like grease or cooking oil (or even red wine!) there are also mouldy patches growing from dampness in your home environment then we suggest using Dulux PRECISION® Stain & Mould Blocker too. For fast results that won't leave you waiting around for hours or offend your senses with strong smells, Dulux PRECISION® Stain & Mould Blocker is highly effective in combatting oil stains, grease marks and mould patches thanks to its potent formula. 

Paper-faced plasterboard? Timber? You name it; this product can tackle it! Plus it's suitable for multiple surfaces like MDFs or chipboards as well as rendered walls or aged enamel - even cement sheet surfaces aren't a problem! Choose the fast route to success with Dulux PRECISION® Stain & Mould Blocker.

Which is our bestselling stain blocker?

The professionals at Paint Access recommend our best-selling stain block paint which is Zinsser Cover Stain Primer-Sealer & Stain Killer. Our customers involved in decorating trade and DIY perceive it as the most favoured choice in the paint market. No sanding is necessary when applying it to any surface.

Moreover, applying this primer before beginning your paint job can help cover unexpected scenarios not handled by a conventional primer. The correct adhesion of paint is guaranteed through proper surface preparation. Provided there is no bleed through after 24 hours, things should be alright. Waiting for the paint to fully dry will ensure the success of your coverage.

Get an amazing Wall finishing with Zinsser’s Perma-White Paints!

All of Zinsser’s Perma-White® interior range has a unique formulation, containing a biocide that protects the dried coating against fungal degradation. In addition, the paint film is designed to resist cracking, peeling and blistering for up to 7 years before first maintenance.

This kind of paint is best suited for high humidity where a durable matte finish is wanted such as your bathrooms and kitchens. 

Looking for a paint that can withstand the moisture prone areas in your home? Our Zinsser PERMA WHITE Mould & Mildew Proof Interior Paint is a real deal here! 

Zinsser Perma White Mould & Mildew Proof Interior Paint is specifically designed to tackle those harsh conditions and prevent mildew growth on the paint film. Plus it has some great features like self-priming, easy application and clean up and it’s durable and long lasting. And with its two coat system, there’s no need for priming! 

Simply use the first coat of PERMA WHITE to prime and seal the surface providing a base for the topcoat. The topcoat then completes the sealing process while offering scrub resistance and protection from mould and mildew. 

Just spot prime any mail holes or gouges with Zinsser’s other paint products such as Bulls Eye 1 2 3 Primer Sealer then start painting! 

Our product offers a range of tinting option as well such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1 2 3 Deep Tint primer for Deep colours so that you can create your desired finish. 

Our product dries in just two hours!

 If you're adding a second coat wait at least two hours after the first coat has dried completely for optimal results. Remember to be patient when curating PERMA WHITEs scrape resistance over glossy shower surfaces like tile; this develops within five to seven days as the coating cures. 

Wait at least 24 hours before using your shower post application and abstain from scrubbing the new coating for seven days for best results! 

Paint access’s Pro Tip for all Zinsser Perma White ranges paint users:

• A water based emulsion can be applied on top of Zinsser Interior Perma White Matt.
• Zinsser Interior Perma White can be applied on your bathroom ceilings and titles.
• A satin paint can be applied over Zinsser Perma White paint range.

Mould or Mildew? 

Which one has invaded your house!

Mould	Mildew
Darker in colour such as dark green or black	White or grew colour and often looks powdery
Fuzzy, appears in irregular shaped spots	Grows in a flat pattern, also looks fluffy
Grows on organic matter (clothes, leather, paper and ceilings)	Lives on shower walls, windowsills, and other places where moisture level is high

The Battle of the best Paint brands

With so many professional painting brands available today, selecting one that meets your requirements might seem overwhelming. Do you stick with a familiar name or choose something that's cheaper? In Australia, Dulux is generally perceived as the leading contender against Zinsser and Haymes paint brands with its 45% market share in the industry. While not much is heard about Zinsser paint brand, significant comparisons occur between Dulux vs. Haymes - two brands with advantages and disadvantages worth considering. 

To aid in your decision-making process let's review some prominent differences between these brands. 

Dulux has been present in the market for longer hence sticking to conventional methods while providing low-cost paints of reasonable quality standards that customers trust implicitly; While comparatively young amongst its contenders, Haymes impresses with its modern-day approach offering a more extensive range of colors and finishes - especially appealing to online purchasers of today's generation who prefer virtual shopping experiences over physical retail outlets offered by old-school rivals like Dulux. For those seeking an extensive range of colours and finishes in their painting projects Dulux is certainly a top contender worth considering. 

Of course, when comparing two similar brands like Haymes and Dulux prioritising quality and affordability is key. 

So, which brand offers better value overall?

Let’s examine their respective prices closely.

A 4L can of Haymes paint averages around $69 (depending on personal circumstances and pricing arrangements) whereas Dulux costs slightly more at $75 per can in comparison. For larger projects requiring bulk quantities of paint a 15L bucket from Haymes runs at approximately $169 while Dulux charges around $190 - making Haymes the more cost effective choice upfront. 

But what about performance?

Both brands boast strong durability with excellent coverage capabilities - though it’s worth noting that there may be greater colour customisation opportunities with Dulux. Regardless if you're looking for a quality product that also offers value for money it seems that picking Haymes paints is the way to go. 

If you are still unsure which paint brand to buy, check out our other blog on The ultimate guide to selecting the best paint.