For a smooth, even finish that lasts, an undercoat is the perfect starting point. It creates a uniform surface that helps paint adhere properly, improves the final colour result, and makes your topcoat more durable — especially useful when covering dark tones, bare wood, or uneven patches.
While primers are designed to seal and protect, undercoats such as Dulux Trade Weathershield Exterior Flexible Undercoat , are all about enhancing the look and feel of your finish. They help conceal minor imperfections and prepare the surface so that your paint glides on with fewer coats. Undercoats are especially helpful on woodwork and trim, where clean lines and consistent coverage really matter.
Undercoats are available in both water-based and solvent-based formulas. Water-based undercoats, like Dulux Trade Weathershield Quick Dry Exterior Flexible Undercoat are fast-drying and low in odour, making them ideal for quick turnarounds. Solvent-based undercoats, such as Crown Trade Full Undercoat, offer maximum adhesion and are better suited for tough or previously coated surfaces. Brands like Dulux Trade, Ronseal and Zinsser offer a wide range to suit almost any job.
Some modern products combine primer and undercoat in one, which can be convenient — but for best results, especially on challenging surfaces or when making a dramatic colour change, a dedicated undercoat is often the better choice.
Key Features:
• Builds opacity and evens out surface colour
• Improves adhesion of topcoat paint
• Suitable for wood, metal, and previously painted surfaces
• Available in water-based and solvent-based options
• Helps create a smooth, long-lasting finish
Summary:
Undercoats are a key step in achieving professional-looking paintwork. They improve coverage, hide blemishes, and help your topcoat go further and look better — giving you a finish that lasts and looks great from the first brushstroke.
