Using Kilz For Exterior: Painting Optional?

KILZ is a primer, not a paint. It is meant to be used as an undercoat to help the finish coat bond to the substrate. If you use KILZ as a finish coat, it will eventually start to discolour and accept dust, debris, and stains. KILZ primers are available for both interior and exterior use. However, primers are not meant to be weather-resistant, and using a primer without a finish coat will result in a filthy house that will need to be redone very quickly.

Kilz primers are not recommended for use as exterior paint

Kilz primers are designed to help paint adhere to surfaces and provide a foundation for the paint. They are not meant to be left exposed to the elements without a topcoat of paint. If left unpainted, the primer will eventually start to discolour and accept dust, debris, and stains. It will also be difficult to repaint in the future if the primer is left exposed for too long.

Additionally, primers are not as cleanable as paint and will quickly become filthy if left exposed. This is especially true for exterior surfaces, which are more prone to grime, bug debris, and other outdoor elements.

There are several Kilz primers that are suitable for exterior use, including the KILZ Original Primer, the KILZ 2 All-Purpose Primer, and the KILZ 3 Premium Primer. These primers can be used on a variety of exterior surfaces, such as wood, brick, stucco, and plaster. However, it is important to properly prepare the surface before priming and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

While it may be tempting to skip the step of painting after priming, it is not recommended. Taking the time to apply a topcoat of paint will ensure a longer-lasting and better-looking finish.

Primers are not weather-resistant

While KILZ primers can be used for exterior projects, they are not meant to be left unpainted. Primers are meant to be an undercoat for paint and are not weather-resistant. If left exposed to the elements, primer will eventually start to discolour and accept dust, debris, and staining.

Primers are not designed to be left as a finish coat. While it may look fine initially, primer will start to discolour and accept dust, debris, and staining/smells will pop through. This will result in a filthy house that will need to be redone very quickly. The primer will attract any grime or bug crap that lands on it. Paint, on the other hand, is cleanable, whereas primer is not.

KILZ primers are meant to be used as a bonding agent for paint. They are designed to help the finish coat bond to the substrate. If you prime your house and don't paint it, the primer will need to be reapplied much sooner than if it were covered with paint.

In addition, if you decide to paint your house in the future but do not re-prime first, there will likely be adhesion issues. Therefore, it is always recommended to use a primer and paint together for exterior projects.

Kilz primers can be used as an undercoat for exterior paint

Kilz offers a range of primers suitable for exterior use, including the KILZ® Original Primer, which has been trusted by professionals for over 40 years. This primer is an all-weather sealer with excellent adhesion properties, making it ideal for challenging surfaces like masonry or bare, porous wood. It is important to note that when using this primer on outdoor brick, stucco, or plaster, the masonry surfaces should be clean, dry, and cured for at least 90 days.

Another option is the KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer, a water-based sealer and stain blocker suitable for both interior and exterior use. This primer is an excellent choice for projects such as painting your front door or garden fence. However, if you are painting unpainted, exterior wood, it is important to clean and sand the surface before priming if it has been exposed to sun and/or moisture for more than 2-4 weeks.

For those in humid environments, the KILZ 3® Premium Primer is a great choice. This fast-drying, water-based primer provides excellent adhesion and a mildew-resistant coating, making it ideal for exterior surfaces prone to moisture. Like the KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer, it can be used for both interior and exterior projects.

While Kilz primers are an excellent choice for the undercoat, they should always be followed by a coat of paint to ensure the surface is protected and can be easily cleaned.

Kilz primers are not suitable for flooring

Primers are crucial for preparing surfaces before painting, ensuring better adhesion and a more uniform finish. However, they are not meant to be used as a final coating on their own. Kilz primers, in particular, are designed to enhance the performance of subsequent paint coats, but they are not formulated to withstand the specific demands of flooring.

Flooring surfaces endure significant wear and tear, requiring coatings that are durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to maintain. Kilz primers are not formulated with these specific performance characteristics in mind. They are intended to be covered with a suitable paint or coating designed for flooring applications.

Additionally, different types of flooring have unique requirements. For example, concrete floors may need to be sealed to prevent moisture-related issues, while wooden floors often require specific finishes to enhance their appearance and protect the wood. Kilz primers are not designed to meet these diverse needs and may not provide the necessary protection or durability for flooring surfaces.

Furthermore, Kilz primers are not recommended for surfaces prone to mould or mildew, which is a common concern for many types of flooring, especially in humid environments. Using a primer that does not adequately address these issues could lead to the development of mould or mildew, compromising the integrity of the floor and potentially impacting indoor air quality.

In conclusion, while Kilz primers are trusted and effective for a wide range of interior and exterior applications, they are not suitable for flooring. It is essential to select products specifically designed for flooring surfaces to ensure optimal performance, durability, and maintenance.

Kilz primers can be used on wood, drywall, plaster, and metal

Kilz primers are versatile and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including wood, drywall, plaster, and metal. These primers are designed to provide a strong foundation for your painting projects, ensuring better adhesion and a more uniform finish.

When it comes to wood, Kilz primers are particularly effective at sealing porous surfaces and blocking stains. This is crucial for preparing bare, porous wood for painting, as it ensures that the paint adheres properly and the final product looks consistent. Kilz primers are also suitable for use on drywall, helping to create a smooth base and seal any odours or stains that may be present.

For plaster surfaces, Kilz primers can be used to prepare both interior and exterior plaster for painting. It is important to ensure that the plaster is clean, dry, and cured for at least 90 days before applying the primer. Similarly, Kilz primers can be used on metal surfaces, helping to create a strong bond between the metal and the paint, resulting in a more durable finish.

While Kilz primers are suitable for these surfaces, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and properly prepare the surfaces before application. This includes cleaning, sanding, and ensuring that the surface is free of any dust, grease, or other contaminants. Additionally, some primers may have specific recommendations or restrictions, so it is always best to refer to the product's instructions and guidelines.

By using Kilz primers on wood, drywall, plaster, and metal, you can ensure that your painting projects have a strong foundation, leading to better adhesion, stain resistance, and overall durability.

Frequently asked questions