Are you looking for a specific primer?

Or primers - plural.

Is one product going to do it all - work on all the different surfaces?

If I use the peel-stop or gardz, if do I also have to put a white primer over it (since those are clear).

I guess I am looking for feedback or opinions about what exact course of action to take.. Its confusing because as I mentioned, Im finding different product descriptions of Gardz - in some places it is labelled specifically as a Damaged Drywall Sealer and says that on the label and talks about only damaged drywall. Other places say its good for ALL problem surfaces. Well, which is it - good for everything, or just drywall?.

Or is there anything else out there? If I drop the idea of finding one single primer - what else is there? Maybe different products for different surfaces ---???

I'm dazed and confused and not just from orange paint stripper fumes -ughhh! (Why do people say that stuff smells good - it doesn't)

Gardz is great and would probably work.
If I was doing it, I would make sure all is cleaned and then apply a coat of Zinnsers Cover Stain( odorless) on everything.

I've used Gardz. Quite simply it is very similiar to a clear, acrylic varnish. The reason they say it's for dammaged drywall is because it will put a smooth surface where the paper has been torn off.

Another reason to use Gardz is that it will give a uniform surface to apply semi-gloss paint. If you apply semi-gloss to drywall that has been taped (but not skim coated) it is very easy to see where there's drywall, and where there are seams, nail heads, etc.

Gardz will level the surface. I wouldn't put an additional white primer over the Gardz. Two top coats should cover.

Give it a try in one room.