Lydia Crowder, speaking from the USG Sheetrock Brand Studio, compares three primers for new drywall: PVA, USG First Coat, and Tough Hide. She explains that PVA is an inexpensive, thin sealer that works well on fresh board and texture but lacks the solids to build or level a surface. First Coat is thicker, helps minimize banding and joint flashing, and suits smooth walls and level four finishes. Tough Hide is a level five surfacer that must be sprayed and crosshatched to self-level, and it can serve as a finish coat on ceilings. She rolls each onto raw board to show the differences in body and coverage, noting that no primer can correct poor drywall work.

Watch more of Lydia's episodes and follow her on Instagram.
Lydia Crowder's Episodes
Lydia Crowder's Instagram
Build Show Newsletter Sign-Up