In this in-depth one coat paint review, we put popular single-pass formulas—Behr Marquee®, PPG Diamond®, Valspar Ultra Coverage®, and Magna Paint + Primer—to the test. Our goal: determine if one coat paint really delivers full coverage or if multiple passes are still required.
One Coat Paint Review: Testing Methodology
To assess performance, we tested each one coat paint on bare drywall and on a dark base layer. We used a ⅜″ nap roller for walls, a 2″ angled brush for trim, and measured:
- Coverage percent on the first coat
- Finish uniformity under natural and artificial light
- Dry and recoat times
- Durability via scuff and scratch resistance
Key Findings in Our One Coat Paint Review
Behr Marquee®
Achieved 95% first-coat hide. Excellent flow and leveling. Low odor. Product details.
PPG Diamond®
90% coverage on first pass, superior stain blocking. Cures fully in 24 hours. Learn more.
Valspar Ultra Coverage®
Consistent 92% hide, top-tier washability. View specs.
Magna Paint + Primer
Claims 100% coverage; our review saw 88% hide but excellent sealing on porous surfaces. Official site.
Pros and Cons of One Coat Paint
| Benefit | Drawback |
|---|---|
| Time-saving single pass | Higher price per gallon |
| Built-in primer options | May require touch-ups in shaded areas |
| Low-odor, low-VOC variants | Not ideal for deep color changes |
Tips to Maximize One Coat Paint Results
- Prep Thoroughly: Clean, sand, and patch imperfections.
- Select Proper Tools: Use a quality ⅜″–½″ nap roller for walls and a 2″ angled brush for trim.
- Maintain a Wet Edge: Work in manageable sections to avoid lap marks.
- Check Coverage: Inspect under varied lighting for missed spots.
Is One Coat Paint Worth It?
Based on our one coat paint review, these formulas deliver 90%+ coverage on light to medium tones. While not miracle workers on deep hues, they provide remarkable efficiency and save labor time.
Conclusion of Our One Coat Paint Review
One coat paint can truly work for many DIY projects, especially for quick refreshes. Order wisely using our free Paint Calculator and budget accordingly for a single-pass solution that lives up to its promise.
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