Do I need a primer for this color?
Some colors, especially yellows, reds and oranges, and other dark accent colors, are considered to be “poor hiding” colors. That means they usually need a primer because, despite their strong, vibrant color, they’re not good at hiding the color they’re covering.
Using a grey (under dark colors) or tinted (under light colors) primer can help you avoid having to apply multiple coats of paint. A tinted primer helps prepare the existing surface for color. You’ll typically only need to apply two coats of paint over tinted primer to get that perfect result. ECOS colors that benefit from additional coats or a tinted primer are marked in our color library (select Fan Deck View) with a roller icon 
Still trying to figure out if you need a primer? Click here to print a zig-zag patterned card you can use to test your paint sample.
Please note: this guidance is specifically related to color selection. We recommend using one of our primers if painting over a higher gloss finish, a darker color, or applying an accent color, or if applying over bare or heavily sanded surfaces.
Painting Tips to Improve “Hide"
- Choose a high-quality paint like ECOS.
- Combine multiple cans of the same color before painting.
- Stir paint thoroughly before painting.
- Don’t thin or dilute the paint with water.
- Use the correct primer as described above, or when you’re applying paint over a porous surface.
- Spread the paint evenly and smoothly.
- Allow the full drying time between coats.
- Use high-quality brushes, rollers, and tools.
Universal Primer
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Universal Primer is the strongest bonding primer for use on almost any surface. Very effective at covering difficult stains. As with all ECOS paints and other products, this primer is water based, odorless, non-toxic, and VOC-free....More Details
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This water-based, solvent-free stain-block primer is highly effective and has a number of uses for concealing and blocking out difficult stains such as rusted metal, rust staining, tannin staining from hardwoods such as oak and mahogany, water staining on (for example) plaster walls & ceilings, and many other "difficult to get rid of" stains. However, this product will not block oily or tarry stains, such as those from coal fires (chimney breast) or asphalt. This is the preferred Primer for bare Iron and Steel.
NOTE: Not ideal for exterior bare cast iron - ask for advice.
- ✔ Zero VOC1
- ✔ No Odor2
- ✔ Non-Toxic3
- 1Conforms to CDPH 01350 (VOC emissions test taken at 14 days).
- 2No traditional paint (polyurethane) odor, which can cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues.
- 3Conforms to ASTMD-4236, specifically concerning oral toxicity, skin irritation and respiratory effects.
Click buttons below to download data sheets
Universal Primer MSDSClick to download
Universal Primer Application InstructionsClick to download
Universal Primer 8260BClick to download
Universal Primer CDPHClick to download
Universal Primer
Add all surfaces to be painted then remove openings, like doors and windows
Coverage Calculator
| Product Label | |
| Preparation | Surfaces should be clean, dry, sound, and free from dirt, dust, grease, and loose or flaking material. Clean stubborn areas with mild detergent. Rinse and dry thoroughly before painting. Soft or crumbly substrates should be pre-treated. |
| Application and Clean Up | Under most conditions thinning is not necessary. Stir gently before and during use. Intermix if using multiple containers to ensure color uniformity. Generally only requires one coat. Sand lightly between coats as this product may raise the grain of the wood. Normally dries to the touch in one hour. Allow four hours before sanding or painting. Can be applied using a good quality synthetic brush; or rolled using a shed resistant 1/4"-3/8" roller cover. Avoid applying below 50oF. |
| Coverage | 400 sq. ft. per gallon (average, but depends on the porosity of the substrate) |
| Recommended coats | 1 |
| Product Code | 700355463870 |
Select a Color
Simply select A, B, or C to choose your perfect color.
- AChoose an ECOS color by name
- BBrowse our colors
- CRequest a color match
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