Best Primers to Use on Drywall Before Painting – Ottawa Homeowner Guide

Before you pick up a paint roller, there’s one crucial step that makes or breaks the finish: priming your drywall. Whether it’s a new install or a drywall repair, applying the right primer is essential for a smooth, even coat of paint.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best drywall primers, explain why priming matters, and help you choose the right product for your project—especially if you live in Ottawa’s unique climate.

🧱 Why You Need to Prime Drywall Before Painting

Drywall is porous. If you paint directly over it (especially after sanding or repairs), the surface will soak in the paint unevenly, leading to:

• Dull spots or flashing

• Uneven color

• Paint peeling or bubbling

• Poor durability

A quality drywall primer seals the surface, creates an even base, and helps paint stick better and last longer.

🥇 Best Primers for Drywall (2025)

1. Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 (Water-Based)✅ Best for general drywall priming✔ Fast drying, low odor✔ Great adhesion over patchwork✔ Available at Home Depot & Lowe’s in Ottawa

2. Benjamin Moore Fresh Start® High-Hiding Primer✅ Best for covering stains or uneven surfaces✔ Excellent hide for repaired areas✔ Smooths out variations in sheen✔ Trusted by Ottawa pros and designers

3. Sherwin-Williams Drywall Primer✅ Best for new construction or fresh drywall✔ Cost-effective for large spaces✔ Creates a uniform surface✔ Found in Sherwin-Williams stores across Ottawa

4. PVA Drywall Primer (Various Brands)✅ Budget-friendly for big jobs✔ Ideal for fresh drywall only✔ Seals new gypsum board before painting💡 Use only on untouched drywall—not over patched areas

🏠 What Primer Should You Use?

Situation	Recommended Primer
New drywall installation	PVA Primer or Sherwin-Williams Drywall
Patching and small repairs	Zinsser Bulls Eye or Fresh Start
Water stains, smoke damage	Stain-blocking oil-based primer
Basement or humid areas	Mold-resistant or mildew-blocking primer

🛠️ R&G Walls Tip:

Always use a primer before painting repaired drywall. Even if the wall looks smooth, unprimed patches will absorb paint differently and stand out—especially under lighting.

👷 Don’t Want to Prime and Paint Yourself?

At R&G Walls, we provide professional drywall priming and painting services in Ottawa, along with full wall repairs, skim coating, and finishing. We use only high-quality primers and paints to ensure your walls look flawless and last for years.

📞 Call or text 613-869-7391📍 Serving Ottawa, Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans & nearby towns✔ Clean work, expert finishes, done on time