INSL-X Stix Waterborne Bonding Primer from Benjamin Moore is engineered for maximum adhesion on hard-to-coat substrates like glossy tiles, PVC, and even glass. Our paint experts here at Ring’s End appreciate Stix primer for its smooth leveling, excellent durability, and strong bonding properties. This product makes a long-lasting finish possible on the trickiest surfaces!
Best Uses for INSL-X Stix Primer
INSL-X Stix is a multi-purpose primer that can be used on just about everything from galvanized metal furniture to interior walls. However, Stix is best reserved for projects where a conventional primer would struggle to adhere properly to the surface.
We recommend applying Stix on substrates such as:
- PVC and vinyl
- Most plastics
- Galvanized metals
- Previously painted, glossy surfaces
- Glass
- Ceramic tile
- Glazed block
What surfaces should I not use Stix primer on?
We don’t recommend applying Stix to polyethylene or polypropylene surfaces, Kynar®, wood decks, or whole house exteriors made from wood.
In general, remember that Stix is meant to offer unparalleled adhesion. It won’t block stains as well as alkyd or shellac primers, and it doesn’t provide the same coverage as an all-purpose primer. See our top primer recommendations for specific projects in our Guide to the Best Paint Primers.
| Formula | Clean Up | Safety Data Sheet | Spec Sheet |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acrylic urethane primer and sealer | Soap & water | Stix® Waterborne Bonding Primer Safety Data Sheet (SDS) | Stix® Waterborne Bonding Primer Data Sheet (TDS) |
Coverage
Stix primer covers 300 – 400 sq. ft. per gallon at the recommended thickness and needs 1-2 coats depending on your project. This primer can be tinted in light to medium Benjamin Moore colors to improve the color precision of your topcoat. If the topcoat is a darker color, we recommend tinting the primer in gray.
The advantage of INSL-X Stix over other primers is its superior adhesion. For interior projects that require better hiding and coverage, we’d recommend an all-purpose primer like Benjamin Moore Fresh Start High-Hiding Primer. For maximum sealing and stain-blocking, go with an oil-based or alkyd primer like Benjamin Moore Fresh Start All-Purpose Primer.
Dry Time
Stix has a quick dry time to touch and can be recoated within a few hours. If you’re topcoating Stix with a two-component paint, wait 24 hours between priming and painting.
| Dry Time (to touch) | Dry Time (to recoat) | Full Cure Time |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 3-4 hours | 3-4 days |
Surface Preparation
Thanks to its strong bonding properties, Stix primer applies to glossy surfaces with minimal preparation. You usually won’t need to sand or de-gloss the surface first, although these steps never hurt! The surface should be cleaned and any loose paint or rust removed before you apply primer and paint.
Application
In addition to bonding extremely well to all types of surfaces, Stix is a water-based primer that cleans up easily and levels smoothly — making it a great choice for both pros and DIYers. It’s also convenient that Stix can be applied in temperatures as low as 35°F and up to a 90°F maximum temp.
You can use synthetic brushes, rollers, or an airless sprayer to apply Stix. If using a sprayer, the tip should be set between .013 and .017, and the total fluid output pressure should not be less than 2200 PSI. 2500 PSI is recommended.
Why We Recommend INSL-X Stix
This versatile product is one of the best bonding primers on the market, and we recommend it often for projects that involve hard-to-coat surfaces. You can trust Stix primer to successfully improve paint adhesion and form a durable base coating that extends the life of your paint job!
To see which primers we recommend for specific projects (and why), check out our Guide to the Best Paint Primers.
Order Benjamin Moore Stix Primer at Ring’s End
Ring’s End carries Stix bonding primer in-store and online. Find a Ring’s End near you, place an order for pickup, or have products delivered to your door. We ship Benjamin Moore paints and primers anywhere in the U.S.!
Let us know if you have questions about INSL-X Stix or any other Benjamin Moore product, and our paint experts will be happy to help. Contact the Ring’s End paint team.
INSL-X STIX Primer
Formula: Urethane Modified Acrylic
Primer Type: Interior/Exterior Waterborne Bonding Primer
Colors: Can be tinted in light to medium Benjamin Moore colors