Non-toxic, zero VOC, stain-block primer
Ecos Universal Primer is a water-based, solvent-free stain-block interior/exterior primer that's highly effective at blocking out many difficult stains such as rusted metal, rust stains, water stains on walls and ceilings and many other challenging stains. It's safe for everyone because it's made without solvents or hazardous chemicals and it contains no biocides or fungicides.
NOTE: This cannot be used over oil-based paints or sealers. For new drywall we recommend ECOS Drywall Primer. For priming raw wood we recommend ECOS Wood Primer. This product will not block tannin/oily/tarry stains, such as asphalt, or those from coal fires. Also, not suitable for cast iron, or bare iron or for pet dwellings or for use with plaster.
Ecos Universal Primer applies with brush or roller, leaving a beautifully smooth, even finish. Apply one or two coats depending upon the severity of the problem and always allow at least 6 hours between coats. One gallon over primed or painted surfaces covers approximately 400 SF per coat/gallon. Older, drier, or rougher surfaces will have a lower spread rate.
ECOS has industry-leading test performance and accreditations:
- The first North American paint manufacturer to complete the Health Product Declaration (HPD) — an open-standard format for accurate, reliable and transparent reporting of product contents for LEED v4 that requires third-party certification;
- The only paint manufacturer with Declare Labels showing LBC Red List Free (a transparent ingredients labeling tool developed by the Living Building Challenge for manufacturers to fully disclose all intentionally added ingredients; Red List is a collection of worst-in-class building chemicals);
- The only professional-grade primer certified to ASTM D-4236 (non-toxic);
- The only paint company with membership in the Juvenile Products Manufacturer’s Association (JPMA);
- The only paint company approved by the national non-profit Healthy Child Healthy World.
See righthand margin for downloadable PDFs including MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet), HPD, Declare label, CDPH (Calif Dept. Pub. Health), ASTM D6886 (VOC test results), and application instructions.
Sample sizes (2 oz) are available for $9.95 including shipping. Swatch Fan Decks are also available.
Why We Like It
This is your go-to primer for virtually every indoor or outdoor application. It works even on the tough applications like bare iron and steel. It will not, however, block oily or tarry stains such as those from coal fires or asphalt, it will also not work over oil-based finishes. If you need to prime your drywall but didn't buy the Ecos Wall Primer, not to worry. This will work fine there too.
Features & benefits
- High performance — superior hiding and sealing on most surfaces
- Non-toxic — zero VOC emissions in paint and pigments; no biocides, fungicides or solvents, ultra-low odor
- Safe — for everyone, including the chemically sensitive; learn how to test a non-toxic product for tolerance
- Certified and accredited — Living Building Challenge Declaration status: Red List Free, Health Product Declaration (HPD) verified, CDPH 01350 compliant, DECLARE ID: IPA-1002, LEED V4, ASTM D-4236 specifically concerning oral toxicity, skin irritation and respiratory effects, ASTM D6886, Healthy Child, Healthy World approved
- Excellent coverage — one gallon covers approx. 400 square feet depending upon the porosity of substrate
- Easy-to-use — brush, or roller; soap and water cleanup (this primer is too thick to spray)
- Eco-friendly shipping — the containers and shipping boxes are both 100% post-consumer recycled and 100% recyclable
Specs for
1-Quart
Concrete
Drywall
Gypsum
Masonry
Plaster
Sheetrock
Stucco
Walls
Wood
Roller
NOTE: Not ideal for exterior bare cast iron - ask for advice. Preparation: The substrate should be sound, dry, non-dusty, and non-oily. Remove any loose or flaking material. Structural issues such as efflorescence, water ingress or rising damp, etc, must be resolved beforehand and re-plastered if needs be. Metals - rust must be removed.
WARNING: Older buildings may contain lead-based paint, which requires professional remediation if it is disturbed. If in doubt, consult with a professional from a Lead-Safe Certified Firm. Application: Do not thin. Stir gently and thoroughly before use. Apply one or two coats (depending on the severity of the problem) by brush or roller, and allow at least 6 hours between coats. Normally touch dry in 1 hour. The final coat should be pure white before recoating. Allow twenty-four hours before sanding or painting. Avoid applying below 50°F (10°C). Clean equipment and brushes with water. Finish with any of our standard wall or trim paints - if in doubt, ask for advice.
Coverage: Varies with porosity but typically 100 Sq Ft/Quart or 400 Sq Ft/Gallon (one coat)
Health & Safety: Avoid contact with the skin and eyes. Wash off splashes with water. Keep out of the reach of children.
- Living Challenge
- Meets or exceeds California Air Resources Board (CARB) 2 requirements
- Indoor Environmental Quality/4.2 Low-Emitting Material/ Paints and Coatings: 1 point
- Primer
Questions & Answers