15 best primers

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Such a paint and varnish material as a primer finds a wide scope of application. The main task of the primer is to create a special layer between the base and the finish. The formed substrate must have good adhesion to different materials. Today, in the domestic market, one can encounter abundance, the consumer is offered expensive and cheap products, in small 0.5-1.0 liter cans and in huge 10-20 liter cans. In order not to be mistaken with the choice, it will be useful to get acquainted with the recommendations of experts.

1. Appointment. First of all, before buying, you need to know on which surface the composition is planned to be applied, and what type of finish will be used in the future. This is a very important point, since different materials differ in their absorption capacity. If it is important for metal products to create a good protective layer on the surface, then the primer must penetrate deeply into wood or concrete. After such an operation, the consumption of paint, glue, and plaster will be significantly reduced. The concept of versatility is not always an advantage for a primer, so it is better to give preference to specialized formulations.
2. Recipe. Many different primer formulations have been invented, all of which have a common basis. The active ingredient can be of acrylic, alkyd, polymer or epoxy origin. The most commonly used solvent is water or an organic compound. But a large number of additives have been created. Antiseptics prevent the appearance of mold and mildew, the introduction of silicones increases the water repellency of the soil, polymer additives increase the penetration depth.
3. Penetration depth. One of the most important parameters of the primer is the degree of its penetration into the base. The maximum impregnation depth is required for porous materials. These are concrete, cement-sand plasters, wood. The depth indicator should be within 10-15 mm. But for metal parts, it is more important to create an anti-corrosion layer with good adhesion on the surface. In this case, the penetration depth can be minimal (up to 1 mm).
4. Drying time. Since the priming operation is intermediate in the process of repairing premises, buildings or cars, the composition is required to dry as quickly as possible. The most optimal option is 1-2 hours, this time can be used for lunch or preparation for finishing.
5. Cost and expense. The cost of a primer on the Russian market varies greatly, even for products of the same brand. The fact is that many well-known companies have established joint ventures in our country, where paints and varnishes are produced. The quality is not always comparable to the original products, but the low cost is a pleasant surprise. In addition to the price tag, it is important to find out the consumption of the primer for each type of base. Often, cheaper primers require 2-3 coats, which leads to increased consumption. This point is worth considering when comparing multiple products.

We have selected 15 of the best primers for our review. All of them are sold in Russia. When distributing places in the rating, the opinion of the expert community and consumer reviews were taken into account.

Which is better – concrete contact or primer

Type of paint material	Advantages	disadvantages
Concrete contact	+ high adhesion + can even be finished with oil paint + makes the surface rough	– low water resistance – not suitable for porous substrates – careful selection is required
Primer	+ wide range of applications + affordable price + penetrates deeply into porous substrates + ease of use	– the surface remains smooth – not suitable for all materials – you must first remove old coatings

Rating of the best primers

Nomination	a place	Name of product	price
Best deep penetration primers for concrete	1	Knauf Betokontakt	RUB 2,838
	2	Eskaro Aquastop Professional	RUB 4 857
	3	Optimist G 103	417 RUB rub.
	4	Ceresit CT 17	783
	5	Polimin Super-Primer AC-7	–
	6	Tikkurila Euro Primer	RUB 1,399
The best primers for outdoor use	1	Eskaro Aquastop Facade	421 r
	2	Marshall maestro	RUB 2,278
	3	Olsta Primer Exterior	800 RUB
	4	TEX 2 in 1	RUB 185
The best primers for wood	1	Belinka base	547 r
	2	Biofa 3754 Universal hard	RUB 1,285
Best deep penetration primers for cars	1	2K WASH PRIMER	366 r
	2	Ranal S-2000 5 + 1 with hardener	794 r
	3	APP 2K Grund EP	1 214 rub.

Best deep penetration primers for concrete

The concrete base is highly absorbent. To prevent the plaster or tile from falling off in the first year, it is necessary to use a deep penetration primer. Experts drew attention to the following compositions.

Knauf Betokontakt

Rating: 4.9

For the preparation of concrete and aerated concrete surfaces for high-quality finishing, experts recommend using Knauf Betokontakt. The solution does not penetrate deeply into the base, most often it impregnates the surface at a level of 4-5 mm. But the main merit of this composition is the creation of high adhesion of the porous surface. As soon as the liquid is dry (12 hours), a rough layer forms. Even a dry finish clings perfectly to it. Concrete contact can be used for priming foam, plastic, plaster. It is suitable for treating walls and ceilings; the composition can be applied with a brush, roller or with a spray gun.

Despite the rather high price, the product becomes the winner of our rating. Builders note the ease of application and low consumption (0.25-0.4 kg / sq. M.).

Advantages

• increased adhesion;
• economical consumption;
• universality of application;
• high quality.

disadvantages

• not detected.

Eskaro Aquastop Professional

Rating: 4.8

Eskaro Aquastop Professional moisture-proof modifier allows you to prepare internal and external substrates for further finishing. The composition is a concentrated composition of 1:10. Unlike competitors, the composition gives the surface not only good adhesion, but also provides reliable waterproofing. The penetration depth reaches 6-10 mm, therefore it is recommended to process not only foam and aerated blocks, but also wood, drywall, brick and plaster. The experts highly appreciated the drying speed (1-2 hours), as well as the possibility of using different finishing materials, from paint to tiles.

The finishers are satisfied with the quality of the primer, but the instructions must be strictly followed, otherwise the adhesion will be poor.

Advantages

• deep penetration;
• wide scope;
• hydro and vapor barrier properties;
• dries quickly.

disadvantages

• high price.

Optimist G 103

Rating: 4.7

An environmentally friendly product for priming substrates before finishing work is the Russian composition Optimist G 103. The experts gave it the third line of our rating for an excellent combination of price and technical parameters. The solution is intended for the preparation of surfaces made of concrete, gypsum-containing materials, wood, cement and brick walls and ceilings. The primer is also suitable for treating floors before leveling. The dried layer does not contain bacteria, fungi or mold.

The domestic composition is also good in terms of ease of use. Thanks to the color indicator, it is possible to qualitatively process the surface, the applied layer dries for about 2 hours. Users are satisfied with the technical qualities of the primer, but many did not like the smell.

Advantages

• affordable price;
• wide range of applications;
• environmental friendliness;
• resistance to biological damage.

disadvantages

• unpleasant smell.

Ceresit CT 17

Rating: 4.7

One of the most popular primers among domestic builders is the composition of Ceresit CT 17. The water-dispersion mixture is distinguished by a large penetration depth (up to 10 mm), good strengthening and impregnating properties. The primer can be applied on a wide variety of substrates, from concrete to wood. Due to its resistance to frost and other weather conditions, the composition is suitable for both internal and external processing of substrates.

The manufacturer deliberately made the color light yellow to make it easier for users to visually distinguish a primed surface from an untreated one. Although this particular feature for some reason causes complaints from consumers. Also, the disadvantages include the high price and specific smell. The primer is the fourth in the ranking.

Advantages

• deep penetration;
• versatility;
• ease of application;
• dries quickly.

disadvantages

• high price;
• unpleasant smell.

Polimin Super-Primer AC-7

Rating: 4.4

Deep penetration primer Polimin Super-Primer AC-7 is suitable not only for preparing surfaces for finishing. It can be used as a modifying additive during the preparation of concrete. The composition was developed specifically for the treatment of substrates with a high degree of water absorption. The penetration depth is in the range of 6-8 mm, the product is delivered to the retail network ready for use. Experts appreciated the adhesive ability of the solution, small particle size (0.1-0.3 microns). At the same time, prolonged drying (4-6 hours) did not allow the primer to take a higher position in the rating.

Users are satisfied with the quality of the composition, the degree of penetration, ease of use. It is not always possible to buy a Ukrainian product in Russia.

Advantages

• deep penetration;
• high quality;
• ease of use;
• strengthens the base.

disadvantages

• dries for a long time;
• shortage in stores.

Tikkurila Euro Primer

Rating: 4.4

The Finnish Tikkurila Euro Primer has universal properties. The composition contains antibacterial and antiseptic additives that are excellent at fighting microorganisms. A distinctive feature of the product, for which experts included in our rating, is moisture resistance. Therefore, the scope of application starts with indoor spaces and ends with outdoor bases. Due to deep penetration (12-15 mm), the flow rate of the solution increases to 0.7 l / sq. m. The primer is supplied to shops in the form of a concentrate, which is diluted with water only for internal use.

Finishers praise the composition for its high quality, fast drying (1 hour), versatility of use. But the price, like the consumption, leaves much to be desired.

Advantages

• high quality;
• good absorbency;
• versatility;
• strengthens the putty.

disadvantages

• high price;
• high consumption.

The best primers for outdoor use

In order for the primer layer to adhere well to the exterior foundations of buildings, it must have good water repellency and be frost resistant. Such formulations can have an unpleasant odor, so they are not recommended for use inside houses. The experts liked the following lineups.

Eskaro Aquastop Facade

Rating: 4.9

Eskaro Aquastop Facade is a one-composition mastic. The manufacturer has added siloxane, which has a beneficial effect on the hydrophobic properties of concrete substrates. The primer penetrates deeply into the material, giving it vapor permeability. Professional builders noticed that the use of the composition can significantly reduce the consumption of expensive finishing materials. Different types of topcoats require a specific ratio of concentrate to water. The maximum dilution is done before gluing the wallpaper (1: 5). And when preparing the surface before painting, the ratio is 1: 3.

Users praise the quality of the primer and the depth of penetration. It is not recommended to use concentrate alone without dilution. Mastic becomes the winner of our rating.

Advantages

• high penetrating power;
• high quality;
• hydro and vapor barrier properties;
• economical consumption.

disadvantages

• high price.

Marshall maestro

Rating: 4.8

The Marshall Maestro primer allows you to qualitatively prepare the surface for finishing. After processing with primer, the base acquires a rough layer resembling sandpaper. Experts note a manifold increase in adhesion, which improves the adhesion of the base to the finishing material. The manufacturer added active ingredients to the composition, thanks to which it was possible to increase the penetration depth to 10 mm. The advantages of the soil include a fast drying time (1 hour). It is recommended to use impregnation only for the treatment of external surfaces.

The users are satisfied with an affordable price, a high degree of adhesion and quick drying. The disadvantage of the material is a high consumption (0.1 l / sq. M).

Advantages

• deep penetration;
• fast drying time;
• rough surface;
• low water consumption.

disadvantages

• external use only;
• high consumption.

Olsta Primer Exterior

Rating: 4.7

The Finnish-Russian product Olsta Primer Exterior is in the top three of our rating. The primer is recommended exclusively for external use, it is not suitable for the treatment of surfaces painted with alkyd or oil enamels. With the help of the composition, it is possible to significantly reduce the water absorption of the concrete base. In addition to improving adhesion, the coating is resistant to cracking. The penetration depth of the solution reaches 15 mm. After applying the primer, it is necessary to wait 12 hours, after which you can finish the surface with cement-sand plaster or glue, pour a screed or self-leveling mixture.

The high consumption (0.2 kg / sq. M) and the high price did not allow to rise above the composition.

Advantages

• improved adhesion;
• high penetrating power;
• prevents cracking;
• hardens the surface.

disadvantages

• high price;
• long drying time.

TEX 2 in 1

Rating: 4.6

The TEX 2 in 1 primer boasts universal qualities. The manufacturer has introduced antibacterial and antiseptic compounds into the composition, which prevent the development of microorganisms. The composition is recommended for use on porous substrates that will be painted or pasted over in the future. You can work on a wide variety of substrates, from concrete to wood surfaces. The solution penetrates into the depth of 6 mm, it improves adhesion, increases the strength of the base, and reduces the absorbency of the substrate.

The roster stops one step away from the top three in the ranking. Users praise it for its low price, ease of application. The primer works best on concrete, which cannot be said for plaster.

Advantages

• low price;
• dries quickly (1 hour);
• versatility;
• good adhesion.

disadvantages

• not effective enough for plastered surfaces.

The best primers for wood

Primer-impregnation helps to ensure a long service life of wooden structures. They have a high penetrating ability, and the presence of antibacterial and antiseptic additives prevents the development of microorganisms. Builders recommend several formulations for use.

Belinka base

Rating: 4.9

Protective impregnation Belinka Base allows to provide maximum protection of wood from a number of destructive factors. The primer is made on the basis of alkyd resin, organic compounds are used to dissolve the ingredients. The impregnation prevents the appearance and growth of bacteria, fungi and insects. It is recommended to protect a wide range of wooden structures, from flooring to furniture. The depth of penetration of the solution ranges from 10-15 mm. Drying time is 24 hours. The primer can be applied in any way. The experts gave the product the first place in our rating.

Users praise the impregnation for its durability, ease of application, reliable protection of the tree from pests and diseases. The disadvantages include a strong odor.

Advantages

• acceptable price;
• universality of application;
• deep penetration;
• long-term protection against biological damage.

disadvantages

• strong smell.

Biofa 3754 Universal hard

Rating: 4.8

Wood primer Biofa 3754 Universal hard is intended for indoor use only. But with the help of this composition, it is possible to effectively protect not only wood, but metal, stone and cork surfaces from negative factors. Experts recommend processing soft woods that absorb paintwork materials unevenly. After drying, it is required to sand the surface. The composition penetrates to a depth of 12-15 mm, it takes 12 hours to completely dry. The impregnation takes the second place in our rating, since it has limited use inside buildings.

Builders are pleased with the penetration rate, ease of application and quality of the impregnation. Of the minuses, there is a high price.

Advantages

• protects various materials;
• penetrates deep into the structure of the tree;
• easy to apply;
• economical consumption.

disadvantages

• high price;
• the scope of application is limited.

Best deep penetration primers for cars

Automotive primers are designed not only to create good metal-to-paint adhesion, but also to protect the substrate from corrosion. Most often these are two-component formulations that are important to prepare correctly. Here are some proven products.

2K WASH PRIMER

Rating: 4.9

The acidic 2K WASH PRIMER provides maximum protection for the car body parts. The composition prevents the formation of corrosion on steel, aluminum and other metals. The product is especially effective against the effects of road reagents on the body in winter. The two-component composition should be applied to bare metal, the protective properties are best manifested with a two-layer coating. After drying, it is imperative to prime the surface with acrylic or epoxy material.

Car drivers are pleased with the result of the action of the primer on metal surfaces. The repaired area preserves the integrity of the paintwork for a long time. Of the minuses, only the high price can be distinguished.

Advantages

• effective protection of metal parts;
• ease of application;
• simple preparation;
• durability.

disadvantages

• high price.

Ranal S-2000 5 + 1 with hardener

Rating: 4.8

A two-component Ranal S-2000 5 + 1 primer is made on an acrylic basis. It can be used both concentrated and diluted. The concentrated composition has a high density, it is perfect for the restoration of local areas. After dilution in a ratio of 5: 1, the primer is used as a filler on large surfaces. After drying, a dense layer forms, it fills all pores, cracks and shallow irregularities. The experts highly appreciated the coverage of the primer, it can be dried outdoors or using heating elements. The squad ranks second in our ranking. Users who have managed to purchase Polish soil praise its properties. It is only very difficult to find it in the trading network.

Advantages

• good penetration;
• leveling ability;
• universality of application;
• ease of drying.

disadvantages

• difficult to buy in Russia.

APP 2K Grund EP

Rating: 4.7

Polish primer APP 2K Grund EP is a two-component epoxy-based primer. It is designed to actively protect metal parts from corrosion. The composition contains zinc phosphate, due to which a thin zinc layer appears on the steel base. The product can be used to process body parts of cars, trucks and buses. Repair specialists note excellent adhesion not only to steel, but to non-ferrous metals, fiberglass and mineral substrates. Grinding the treated surface is allowed in different ways (dry and wet).

The primer is in the top three of our rating for excellent anti-corrosion protection, good adhesion. The disadvantages of users include a shortage in stores in the country.

Advantages

• high anti-corrosion ability;
• good adhesion to various materials;
• ease of processing;
• ease of application.

disadvantages

• deficit in the trading network.

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Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.