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Johnstone's Quick Dry Gloss Primer Undercoat Review: Fast-drying primer for wood and metal

Johnstone's - Quick Dry Gloss Primer Undercoat - Brilliant White - Water Based - Interior Wood & Metal - Fast Drying - Low Odour - Dry in 1-2 Hours - 13m2 Coverage per Litre - 0.75 L
4.7
[Versatile Surface Compatibility]  Suitable for interior and exterior bare timber, masonry, and previously painted wood and metal.
[Quick Drying]  Dries to touch in 1-2 hours for fast recoating and efficient projects.
[Water Based Low Odour]  Non-yellowing, low-odour water-based formula, easy and safe to apply indoors.
[Excellent Coverage]  Covers approximately 13m² per tin for efficient application and fewer refills.
[Durable Finish and Priming]  Provides a classic, durable finish and primes perfectly for gloss or satin topcoats.
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A primer undercoat aimed at speed and a high-sheen finish for interior and exterior surfaces. Low-odour, water-based formulation makes decorating indoors more pleasant and tidier to clean up. Is Johnstone's Quick Dry Gloss Primer Undercoat the right choice for your next decorating job?

⚡ At a Glance
  • Finish Quality: Contemporary high-sheen gloss that dries quickly and resists yellowing
  • Best for: DIYers and tradespeople needing fast recoats and a glossy, professional finish
  • Not ideal for: Work that specifically requires solvent-based formulations or specialist weatherproofing

Fast-drying, water-based gloss primer undercoat suitable for interior and exterior bare timber, masonry and metal. Low-odour, non-yellowing formulation with 13m2 coverage per litre and dry-to-touch in 1-2 hours.


Speedy Recoats - with dry-to-touch time of 1-2 hours

Water-based formulation is engineered to dry to the touch within 1-2 hours, so the film forms quickly and allows further coats to be applied sooner.

Complete multi-coat jobs in a shorter timeframe, ideal for weekend projects or quick room touch-ups.

Cleaner Indoor Working - with low-odour, water-based formulation

Low-odour water-based chemistry reduces strong solvent smells and permits tool cleanup using water rather than harsh thinners.

Safer, more pleasant indoor decorating and simpler cleanup for brushes and rollers.

Reliable Coverage and Smooth Finish - with stated 13m2 per litre coverage

Formulation is balanced to provide even coverage and a contemporary high-sheen finish, with coverage given as 13m2 per litre.

Fewer coats are often required, leaving a smooth, professional-looking gloss on wood and metal.

✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Johnstone's Quick Dry Gloss Primer Undercoat
  1. Fast drying - Reduces waiting time, enabling multiple coats in a single day
  2. Water-based, low odour - Easy cleanup with water and gentle enough for indoor use
  3. 13m2 per litre coverage - Covers more area per litre, reducing the number of tins needed
  4. Versatile adhesion - Primes bare timber, previously painted wood and metal effectively
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
  • Product Type: Quick dry gloss primer undercoat
  • Formulation: Water-based
  • Sheen: High sheen / gloss
  • Drying Time: Dry to touch in 1-2 hours
  • Coverage: 13m2 per litre
❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can this primer be used outdoors?

A: Yes. Product descriptions state suitability for both interior and exterior bare timber and masonry surfaces.

Q: How long should I wait before recoating?

A: Dry-to-touch is stated as 1-2 hours, and user feedback highlights quick drying that enables fast recoating for timely project completion.

Q: Is it suitable for indoor use around sensitive noses?

A: Yes. The low-odour, water-based formulation is specifically described as easier and safer to use indoors with simpler cleanup.

🏆 Our Verdict

Suited to DIYers and tradespeople who need fast turnaround when priming wood, metal and masonry. The combination of a quick-drying, water-based low-odour formula with reliable coverage makes it particularly useful for indoor projects and quick exterior touch-ups. Expect good long-term value thanks to durable gloss results and straightforward cleanup.