Primer Perfection: Kilz And Exterior Paint Compatibility

KILZ primers are formulated to be used under paint to create a uniform surface, hide strong or bright colours, block stains that might bleed through or show through the paint, and enhance the paint's ability to stick to the surface better and last longer. The KILZ brand offers a range of primers to help complete a wide range of painting projects and tackle common painting problems. For example, KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer is a versatile, multi-surface sealer that can be used on interior and exterior surfaces. It is important to note that primer is not meant to be left as a finish coat, as it will eventually start to discolour and accept dust, debris, and staining/smells.

KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer is a versatile, multi-surface sealer

KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer is a versatile, fast-drying, water-based, multi-surface primer-sealer-stain-blocker. It is ideal for both interior and exterior use, including surfaces such as woodwork, drywall, plaster, panelling, masonry, brick, painted metal, and properly prepared glossy surfaces. It is not recommended for use on flooring.

The KILZ 2® Primer offers excellent adhesion and mildew resistance, and can block light to medium stains like felt marker, minor water stains, rust, grease, ink, pencil marks, and more. It is also an excellent choice for a simple colour change, ensuring the truest colour from your new topcoat. Its enhanced hiding capabilities help lessen the number of coats of paint required.

To use the KILZ 2® Primer, ensure that the surface is clean, dry, and free of dust, chalk, oil, grease, wax, polish, mould, mildew, loose peeling paint, rust, and all other foreign substances. If washing is necessary, use a non-soapy detergent or a TSP substitute, then rinse well and allow the surface to dry. For glossy surfaces, scuff sand the surface thoroughly before priming to ensure maximum adhesion.

The KILZ 2® Primer can be tinted with up to 2 ounces of universal colourant per gallon. It is recommended to tint it to a lighter shade than the topcoat. It dries to the touch in 30 minutes and can be recoated or top-coated with latex or oil-based paint in just one hour.

Primer is not just paint without colour

While it is true that primer and paint are both classified as "architectural coatings", they are formulated differently. Paint is designed to deliver colour, whereas primer is formulated to stick and better protect the surface, and can also block stains.

There are several reasons why it is a good idea to apply a masonry primer before painting. Some masonry surfaces can have a high pH level, which will cause adhesion problems if paint is applied directly to the surface. A quality masonry primer will allow you to safely paint over a wider range of pH levels without the risk of adhesion loss.

There are also different types of stain-blocking primers for specific uses, such as keeping water and smoke stains/damage from bleeding through the finish coat, or making a dramatic colour change, especially when painting a lighter colour over a much darker colour.

Primer is also important for exterior surfaces, which are typically exposed to the elements and are subject to expansion and contraction. Exterior surfaces such as wood and metal require a primer for proper adhesion and blocking power.

Primer is not only for walls

When it comes to painting, primer is an essential step to ensure a long-lasting and professional-looking finish. While many may think of primer as only being necessary for walls, this is a common misconception. Primer is not just for walls and can be used on a variety of surfaces, both interior and exterior.

Primer for Different Surfaces

Primers are available for a range of surfaces, including wood, brick, stone, drywall, and metal. For example, if you're painting new drywall, a primer like KILZ® PVA Drywall Primer or KILZ® 1 Standard Interior Primer is recommended. For surfaces that paint might not usually stick to, such as glossy surfaces, aluminium, vinyl, ceramic tile, or glass, an adhesion primer like KILZ® Adhesion Interior/Exterior Primer is ideal.

Exterior Surfaces

Exterior primers are crucial for protecting surfaces from the elements, which can cause paint to fail due to a lack of adhesion. KILZ offers a range of exterior primers, such as KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer, which can be used on exterior surfaces like woodwork, drywall, plaster, paneling, masonry, and brick.

Stain-Blocking Primers

Primers are also effective at blocking stains and odours. For heavy-duty jobs involving fire, smoke, or pet odour damage, KILZ offers oil-based primers like KILZ® ORIGINAL and KILZ® ORIGINAL EXTERIOR, as well as water-based primers like KILZ® RESTORATION and KILZ® PREMIUM.

Primer for Specific Skin Concerns

In the realm of skincare and makeup, face primers are used to prep the skin for foundation application, smooth away fine lines and pores, and extend the wear time of makeup. Different types of makeup primers target specific skin concerns, such as oily skin, visible pores, dull skin, or dry skin.

Versatility of Primer

Primer can be used with or without makeup. On its own, primer can help achieve a smooth, natural base and a glowing complexion. When used with makeup, it enhances the longevity and application of the foundation, creating a flawless finish.

In summary, primer is a versatile product that can be used on various surfaces beyond just walls. By choosing the right primer for your specific surface and needs, you can ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.

Primer is not a substitute for cleaning the surface

KILZ primers are a versatile option for your painting projects, offering excellent adhesion and the ability to block stains. However, it is important to remember that primer is not a substitute for cleaning the surface you wish to paint.

Even if you are using a primer, it is crucial to clean the surface beforehand. Failing to do so may result in compromised adhesion of the primer, which can lead to issues such as peeling and blistering. Therefore, it is recommended to always prepare the surface by ensuring it is clean and free of dust, dirt, and debris.

For interior and exterior surfaces, KILZ 2® All-Purpose Primer is a great option. It can be used on various surfaces, including woodwork, drywall, plaster, masonry, brick, and painted metal. However, remember that proper surface preparation is still necessary. All surfaces must be clean and free of dust, chalk, oil, grease, wax, polish, mould, mildew, and other foreign substances.

If washing is required, use a non-soapy detergent or a TSP substitute, then rinse and allow the surface to dry. For unpainted exterior wood, it is essential to clean and sand the surface before applying the primer. Similarly, for surfaces with peeling or checked paint, remove the loose paint and sand it down to a smooth finish.

In summary, while KILZ primers offer convenience and versatility, they should not be seen as a replacement for proper surface preparation. Cleaning and preparing the surface before priming and painting is crucial to ensure the best results and prevent potential issues.

Primer is important for exterior surfaces

Primer is an important step in the painting process, especially for exterior surfaces.

Exterior surfaces are exposed to the elements and are subject to expansion and contraction from changes in temperature. They also have to withstand wind, rain, snow, dust, dirt, pollution, and sunlight (UV rays). All these factors can cause paint to fail due to a lack of adhesion to the surface, leading to issues like cracking, peeling, or blistering.

Using a primer specifically designed for exterior use can make a significant difference in ensuring the paint job lasts. Primer is formulated to stick and better protect the surface, enhancing the paint's ability to adhere and last longer. It creates a uniform, non-porous surface, blocking stains that might bleed through the paint and improving the final finish.

For example, if you are painting bare wood, primer is essential as wood is one of the more difficult materials for paint to adhere to. Primer also provides additional protection against moisture, preventing water damage like warping or cracking. It also helps to create a smoother finish, filling in any cracks or imperfections on the surface.

Additionally, for surfaces like masonry (brick, stone, or concrete), using a primer is recommended. Masonry tends to be porous, and without a primer, paint may soak into the surface and require multiple coats. Primer creates a smooth base, improving paint adhesion and ensuring an even finish. It also provides an extra layer of protection against stains and can help prevent issues like efflorescence, a white powdery substance caused by a chemical reaction between water and salt, which can weaken brick.

In summary, primer is an important step for exterior surfaces as it improves paint adhesion, protects against moisture and stains, fills in imperfections, and creates a smoother, more durable finish. Skipping primer can compromise the final result and may lead to issues like paint peeling or cracking.

Frequently asked questions