Zinsser Primer Guide: Choosing the Right Solution
Zinsser offers a powerful lineup of primers tailored to solve real-world decorating challenges. Whether you’re dealing with stains, peeling paint, or damaged drywall, this guide breaks down the best primer for each scenario—covering BIN, BIN Aqua, Bulls Eye 1-2-3, Bulls Eye Plus, Peel Stop, and Gardz.
Zinsser BIN – Shellac-Based Performance
Zinsser BIN is a high-performance shellac-based primer designed for interior surfaces and spot exterior use. It delivers exceptional stain blocking, odour sealing, and adhesion to glossy surfaces like glass, tile, and varnish—without sanding. Ideal for smoke damage, knots, and tough stains, BIN dries in just 15 minutes and recoats in 45, making it a favourite among professional decorators.
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Available Sizes
500ml, 1L, 2.5L, 5L
Zinsser BIN Aqua – Water-Based Shellac Alternative
BIN Aqua is Zinsser’s water-based alternative to traditional shellac primers, offering low odour, fast drying, and excellent stain blocking. It’s perfect for both interior and exterior use, adhering to glossy surfaces and sealing knots, sap streaks, and odours. With touch-dry times as fast as 25 minutes, BIN Aqua combines eco-conscious formulation with professional-grade performance.
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Available Sizes
500ml, 1L, 2.5L, 5L
Bulls Eye 1-2-3 – Water-Based All-Rounder
Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a universal water-based primer for interior and exterior surfaces. It offers mould resistance, rust inhibition, and strong adhesion to wood, drywall, masonry, and metal—without sanding. Quick drying and low odour, it’s ideal for high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens, and can be tinted to match your topcoat.
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Available Sizes
500ml, 1L, 2.5L, 5L
Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus – High-Performance Upgrade
Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Plus is a next-generation water-based primer that rivals solvent-based performance. It blocks water and smoke stains, adheres to glossy and hard-to-coat surfaces, and resists fungal degradation. Perfect for vinyl, tile, UPVC, and non-ferrous metals, it dries in 30 minutes and recoats in 1 hour—making it a go-to for demanding prep jobs.
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Available Sizes
1L, 2.5L, 5L
Gardz – Drywall Repair Defender
Gardz is a water-based sealer formulated for damaged drywall, porous surfaces, and wallpaper prep. It penetrates deeply to bind chalky residues, seal torn paper, and lock in adhesive. Fast drying and moisture-resistant, Gardz is essential for stabilizing walls before painting or re-wallpapering, especially after renovation or stripping.
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Available Sizes
1L, 2.5L, 5L
Peel Stop – Flaky Paint Stabiliser
Peel Stop is a clear, flexible sealer designed to stabilize peeling, flaking, or chalky paint. It penetrates problem surfaces and forms a breathable membrane that glues down edges and cracks. Ideal for exterior wood, masonry, and stucco, Peel Stop extends the life of compromised surfaces and creates a solid base for repainting.
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Available Sizes
1L, 2.5L, 5L
Final Tips
Choose your primer based on the problem, not just the surface. Zinsser’s strength lies in solving prep challenges—saving you time and protecting your finish. Always test a small area, especially on glossy or moisture-prone surfaces.
