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Zinsser Cover Stain White Primer and Sealer 5 gal

Made in America

Support American manufacturers + independent hardware retailers in one purchase.

Introducing Zinsser Cover Stain White Primer and Sealer, a dependable foundation for any painting project that demands serious stain blocking and a consistent topcoat. This 5-gallo…

Zinsser MPN 3500
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Typical store price: low $156.99, average $184.99
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About Product Overview

Introducing Zinsser Cover Stain White Primer and Sealer, a dependable foundation for any painting project that demands serious stain blocking and a consistent topcoat. This 5-gallon white primer and sealer is designed to seize control of surface imperfections before you apply your finish coat, helping you achieve a smooth, uniform result from edge to edge.

Why this primer stands out

Cover Stain is formulated to address tough staining and porosity in a single, practical layer. Its white base is tintable, so you can tailor the undercoat to match or slightly underlay your chosen topcoat, reducing the number of coats needed and improving color fidelity. The result is fewer topcoat applications and a more even, long-lasting finish.

Key features at a glance

  • Size: 5-gallon container for larger projects or multiple rooms.
  • Coverage: Approximately 2,000–2,500 sq ft per container, depending on surface porosity and texture.
  • Stain blocking: Yes — designed to seal in surface imperfections before painting.
  • Tintable: White base that accepts tinting for a coordinated topcoat look.
  • Application window: Recoat after about 1 hour for faster project timelines.
  • Full cure: Typically reaches full strength in about 7 days.
  • Indoor/Outdoor: Suitable for both interior and exterior surfaces.
  • Cleanup: Clean up with paint thinner.
  • Recommended surface: All surfaces — versatile enough for wood, drywall, plaster, masonry, and more.

Ideal uses and practical scenarios

  • Knots and tannin-prone wood: Apply Cover Stain to block resin bleed before repainting or priming with a topcoat.
  • Water and smoke-stained walls: Create a uniform base that prevents bleed-through and ensures a true color on the final coat.
  • New drywall or plaster: Form a solid base that improves topcoat adhesion and reduces the need for multiple coats.
  • Exterior wood or masonry surfaces: Provide a stable undercoat that resists moisture intrusion and supports long-lasting paint jobs.

How to use for best results

  1. Prepare the surface: Clean, dry, and free of peeling paint, dirt, and oil.
  2. Stir thoroughly to blend tintable base with colorant if you’ve chosen a tinted option.
  3. Apply a uniform coat using a brush or roller, avoiding heavy runs or sags.
  4. Let the first coat dry to the touch, then recoat after about 1 hour for best results.
  5. Once fully cured, topcoat with your chosen paint for even color and lasting protection.

Who benefits most from Zinsser Cover Stain

Homeowners tackling renovation projects, DIY enthusiasts refreshing interiors, and professionals priming exterior surfaces will appreciate the reliable stain-blocking performance and the convenience of a tintable, all-surfaces primer and sealer. If you’ve faced repeated bleed-through, uneven topcoats, or long-standing stains from past work, this primer is engineered to give you a dependable, prep-ready foundation.

Ready to set the stage for trustworthy color and lasting coverage? Add Zinsser Cover Stain White Primer and Sealer (5 gal) to your cart and start your project with confidence.

The Details Specifications

Special Handling Special handling and shipping requirements apply.
Non-Returnable This product cannot be returned. All sales final.
Brand Zinsser
SKU 1097666
UPC 047719035008
Unit OZ
Case Pack Quantity 1 per case
Retail Unit Quantity 1
Unit of Measure 0 0
Dimensions (L × W × H) 13 × 13 × 14
Weight 59 lbs
Cubic Feet 1.2207 ft³
Country of Origin USA
Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Manufacturer documentation · opens in new tab

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