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.
Stain Blocking Primer
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Stain Blocking Primer is the most highly effective primer for covering difficult stains and substrates, ideal for water 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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STAINBLOCK - undercoat for "difficult" stains & bare ferrous interior metals.
ECOS stain blocking primer is highly effective for concealing and blocking out difficult stains such as rusted metal, rust staining, tannins from hardwoods (oak, mahogany, etc.), water stains on (for example) plaster walls and ceilings from leaking gutters, cisterns, roofs, etc. and many other "difficult to get rid of" stains. As a result, when appropriately applied to a surface, this primer will increase a surface's durability. ECOS primer also does not have the harsh odors common in other high performing primers. To achieve the best results, choose ECOS stain blocking primer for your next project.
*NOTE- Will not block oily/tarry stains such as asphalt or those from coal fires. Not ideal for some types of cast iron - please ask for advice. Not for aviaries, aquaria, reptiles.
- ✔ Zero VOC1
- ✔ No Odor2
- 1Conforms to CDPH 01350 (VOC emissions test taken at 14 days).
- 2No traditional paint (polyurethane) odor, which can cause headaches, nausea, and respiratory issues.
Click buttons below to download data sheets
Stain Block MSDSClick to download
Stain Block Application InstructionsClick to download
Stain Block CDPHClick to download
Stain Blocking 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, or sprayed using an airless sprayer with 0.015” to 0.017” tip at 1600 to 1800 psi. Avoid applying below 50oF. |
Coverage | 400 sq. ft. per gallon |
Recommended coats | 1 |
Product Code | 817292022265 |
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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