Exterior Zinsser: To Paint Or Not To Paint?

can you use zinsser as exterior and not paint it

Zinsser is a paint manufacturer that produces a range of primers, sealers, paints, and other products for interior and exterior use. One of their products, Zinsser BIN, is a shellac-based primer that can be used on challenging surfaces to improve paint adhesion. While it can be used outdoors, it is only suitable as a spot primer due to its shellac base, which cannot withstand prolonged exposure to the elements. Zinsser does offer an alternative water-based version, Zinsser BIN Aqua, which can be used for exterior applications and provides the same benefits as the traditional formula.

Characteristics Values
Can Zinsser be used as an exterior paint? Yes, Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Gloss is an ultimate performance, mould-resistant paint that can be used on all exterior surfaces.
Can Zinsser be used as an interior paint? Yes, Zinsser AllCoat Exterior can be used indoors as well.
Can Zinsser be used without a primer? Zinsser AllCoat Exterior is a self-priming paint and does not require a primer.
Can Zinsser be used on bare plaster? Zinsser BIN can be used on bare plaster but it is not recommended.
Can Zinsser be used on bare wood? Zinsser Bullseye 123 is better suited for use on bare wood.
Can Zinsser be used on interior PVC windows and doors? Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Water-Based Satin can be applied to interior uPVC windows and doors.
Can Zinsser be used on laminate surfaces? Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Water-Based Satin can be used on laminate surfaces but a primer may be required.
Can Zinsser be used on galvanised metal? Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Water-Based Satin can be applied to galvanised metal but a primer may be needed.
Can Zinsser be used on untreated breeze blocks? Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Water-Based Satin can be applied to untreated breeze blocks.
Can Zinsser be used on concrete? Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Water-Based Satin is not recommended for use on concrete patios.

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Zinsser Allcoat Exterior can be used indoors

Zinsser AllCoat Exterior is a high-performance, mould-resistant paint that can be used on all exterior surfaces, including wood, metal, masonry, plastic, concrete, and cladding. It is designed for long-term decoration and can be applied to a variety of surfaces. While it is an excellent choice for outdoor use, Zinsser AllCoat Exterior can also be used indoors.

Zinsser AllCoat Exterior is available in a range of finishes, including satin, matt, and gloss, each with an interior and exterior-specific paint. It is a self-priming paint, which means that for most jobs, you won't need to purchase a separate primer. The first coat of Zinsser AllCoat Exterior primes and seals the surface, providing a base for the topcoat. The topcoat then completes the sealing process, offering additional protection and moisture resistance.

Zinsser AllCoat Exterior is ideal for interior applications such as garage doors, window frames, front doors, interior walls, and ceilings. It is also suitable for use on various materials, including uPVC, timber, galvanised metals, cladding, stucco, brick, stone, and cured concrete. Before applying Zinsser AllCoat Exterior, ensure that the surfaces are clean, dry, and free of any contaminants that may interfere with adhesion.

Zinsser AllCoat Exterior offers a quick and efficient application process, with a recoat time of just one hour. It provides excellent resistance to cracking, blistering, and flaking, ensuring a durable and long-lasting finish. The paint is also waterproof and contains biocides to protect against fungal degradation.

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Zinsser BIN can be used outside as a spot primer

Zinsser B-I-N primer is a versatile product that can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces. While it is primarily intended as a primer for interior surfaces, it can also be used for spot priming exterior surfaces. This means that it can be applied to specific areas or spots on outdoor surfaces as a primer without the need for painting the entire surface.

Zinsser B-I-N is a shellac-based primer known for its excellent adhesion and stain-blocking properties. It is designed to provide a high-hide seal, making it ideal for blocking tough stains and odours, such as those from pets, smoke, or tobacco. One of its key advantages is its ability to adhere to all surfaces without the need for sanding, resulting in a smooth and tight finish. Additionally, it serves as an effective sealer, primer, and stain blocker for surfaces like wood, laminate, and high-gloss cabinetry.

When using Zinsser B-I-N primer outdoors, it is essential to follow safety precautions due to its flammability. Ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and using fans to maintain adequate airflow during and after application. It is also recommended to wear a respirator with VOC cartridges to protect yourself from inhaling vapours.

Zinsser B-I-N primer is a convenient and effective solution for spot priming exterior surfaces. Its fast-drying formula allows for quick application and can be recoated within a short time frame. By following the necessary safety measures, you can confidently use Zinsser B-I-N primer for your outdoor spot priming needs.

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Zinsser Cover Stain is a good primer for mould

Zinsser primers won't kill mould, but they will inhibit mould growth. It is recommended to wash the mouldy surface with a fungicidal wash before allowing it to fully dry. Cover any mould and mildew stains with Zinsser Cover Stain, which is rich in a biocide that fights against fungal degradation and is designed to withstand moisture. Zinsser Cover Stain is a brilliant stain-blocking primer that permanently seals and blocks even the most stubborn stains, including water damage, nicotine and more. It is an all-purpose, solvent-based, stain-killing, primer-sealer that is ideal for interior and exterior applications. It can be recoated in just two hours and may be used under any solvent-based or water-based topcoat.

Zinsser Cover Stain is a favourite with professionals as a whole-house primer-sealer. It can be used to block stains, hide dark colours, prevent tannin bleed and penetrate and seal exterior wood. It sticks to all surfaces without sanding and spot-prime heavy stains with the aerosol spray. Zinsser Cover Stain is also effective at sealing water, smoke and nicotine stains.

Zinsser also offers a range of other products that can be used to remove mould and mildew stains, including Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3, which is a universal interior and exterior, water-based, primer-sealer. It offers low odour application, quick-drying convenience and excellent adhesion to glossy surfaces. Zinsser's Wallpaper-Cover Up provides a smart way to paint over wallpaper, and their Perma-White® paint performs exceptionally in high-humidity environments and prevents fungal degradation for a guaranteed five years.

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Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a good primer for kitchen cabinets

Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a versatile primer, sealer and stain killer that can be used on interior and exterior surfaces. It is an excellent option for kitchen cabinets due to its ability to withstand high levels of moisture. Kitchen environments are prone to high humidity, and the primer's biocide content protects against fungal degradation. This makes it ideal for use on cabinetry, where it can be applied directly to wood, laminate and high-gloss surfaces without the need for sanding.

Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a water-based formula that dries quickly, usually within 30 to 35 minutes, and can be recoated in an hour. Its low odour makes it suitable for occupied spaces, and it adheres well to a range of surfaces, including glossy paint and clear finishes. The primer also serves as a stain blocker, preventing solvent-based stains from bleeding through the topcoat. This feature is particularly advantageous when painting kitchen cabinets, as it ensures a uniform and aesthetically pleasing finish.

The Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 primer is easy to apply and can be brushed, rolled or sprayed. It is recommended to apply it when temperatures are between 50-90°F (10-32°C) and relative humidity is below 70%. The product is typically ready to use out of the container, but if thinning is required, no more than 10 fluid ounces of clean water should be added per gallon. It is important to note that thinning may affect the primer's stain-blocking abilities.

One of the standout features of Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is its ability to provide excellent adhesion without the need for sanding or deglossing. This saves time and effort in the preparation process, making it a convenient choice for kitchen cabinet projects. The primer dries to a smooth, tight, water-resistant film, creating an ideal base for your chosen topcoat. Its smooth finish also allows for easy sanding if desired.

Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is a reliable and effective primer for kitchen cabinets. Its moisture resistance, adhesion, and stain-blocking properties make it a top choice for achieving a high-quality, long-lasting finish in kitchen environments.

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Zinsser AllClean is a durable matt emulsion

Zinsser AllClean is a scrubbable, durable matt emulsion with a flat, streak-free and flawless matt finish. It is ideal for use in homes, schools and commercial buildings, and is suitable for walls and ceilings in any interior area.

AllClean is a tough and scrubbable finish that withstands stains, moisture and resists dirt pickup. It is ideal for new or previously painted wallboard, plaster ceilings and walls. It is perfect for busy environments that require frequent cleaning.

AllClean is available in Brilliant White (matt finish) and a selection of bases that can be tinted to any NCS, RAL or BS4800 colour. It is ISO 11998 Class 1 Wet Scrub-Rated and Class 0 Fire Rated.

To apply AllClean, stir thoroughly and use a synthetic bristle brush, medium pile roller, pad applicator or sprayer. For airless spraying, use a .017 tip and high medium (2000-2600 PSI) pressure. Apply when air and surface temperatures are between 10°-32°C and humidity is less than 80%.

Frequently asked questions

Zinsser Allcoat Exterior can be used indoors, but it is designed for exterior use and has anti-fungal properties and biocides that some may not want indoors.

Zinsser BIN can be used outside, but only as a "spot primer". Zinsser BIN Aqua, however, is a water-based version that can be used outside.

Zinsser is a primer, sealer, and stain killer, so it does not require a topcoat. However, it is never used as a finish product and is always covered by another paint product.

Zinsser can be used on bare plaster, but it is not recommended. It is better to mist coat bare plaster with an appropriate emulsion or water-based primer first.

Zinsser can be used on bare metal, but it is recommended to first prime with Zinsser Coverstain and abrade and degrease unweathered powder coatings.

Written by
  • Lara Beck
  • Lara Beck
    Author Home Renovation Professional
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