You wanted to get a paint job done at home by yourself. But primer isn’t doing its job? We understand how confusing that is for you.
So, you’re asking about kilz 2 primer problems?
Well, the most common problem with kilz 2 primer is- peeling primer. Also, failing to adhere to paint, stick to wood, and cover stains. In these cases, you can clean your surface. Then sand it. You can then apply a layer or layers of the primer. These will help give you the smooth & right base.
Well, that’s not all. Here, we skipped a few details. But you can find them in the following segments.
What is Kilz 2 Primer?
If you do not know what a Kilz 2 Primer is, we’ve got you. In simpler terms, it is a multi-surface primer that also works as a sealer and stain blocker that is water-based and fast drying.
It is commonly used as a base for painting walls and rough surfaces.
Common Problems and Their Causes with Kilz 2 Primer
We’ve covered the most common problems and causes faced with Kilz 2 Primer.
Peeling/Streaking from Dry Wall
Peeling and streaking happen when the wall isn’t cleaned. Having debris, oil, and chipped old paint can cause the primer to form clumps and peel.
If there’s excess oil on the surface, it may cause the primer to streak down. Another cause for primer peeling is recoating before the first coat has dried.
It may also cause bubbling.
Also, it’s better to know if you should first caulk or grout before priming specific surfaces.
Paint Not Sticking to Primer
Priming the walls will not ensure a proper paint job. You may face paint adhesion problems when –
- Walls are dirty
- If the weather contains too much moisture
- Running your primer over the same area often
- Recoating and repainting before letting it dry
- Chemical formulations of the primer and paint not cooperating
This is also one of the common problems while painting ceilings.
Not Sticking to Wood
Wood surfaces can be of various categories. But common features of a wooden surface hold uneven, rough, and minor textures.
Also, dust and grains of wood are present if the wood is not sanded and cleaned.
Due to this variation in texture and evenness of the surface, primers may have a hard time sticking to the wood.
Not Covering Stains
Kilz 2 primer is not recommended for covering stains, by the brand. But for priming drywalls to get a smooth canvas for a new paint job.
Also, a lot of people use thinners with primers for spraying applications. Causing the primer to apply in a thin layer and letting stains come through.
It is important to use a primer that targets staining.
And if you own pets, here’s a stain removal comparison between bin primer and kilz primer for cat urine.
Common at-Home Solution
If you want to get the problem solved yourself we’ve written down 4 easy to follow steps.
Step-1: Clean the Surface
First, take a sponge and warm water to clean your surface properly. If there’s a presence of oil or grimes on the surface, an anti-grease detergent with a water solution should be used for cutting grease.
Next, another wipe with clean water should do the job.
Also, if mildew is present on walls, that should be cleaned as well. It’s better to know how to prevent mildew from growing.
The surfaces need to be dry before taking further steps.
Step-2: Sand the Surface
Sanding is crucial for surfaces that are uneven and have been painted before. Especially if the surface had a glossy paint job.
Use sandpaper or sanding blocks to dull out uneven surfaces. For water-based paint, use fine-grit sandpapers. For oil-based paint, use sandpapers with 100 to 150 grit.
For wooden surfaces, you have to use 180 or 220 grit sandpaper.
Make sure no cracking or flaky paint remains on the surface. The best surface is that which doesn’t contain any residue from old paint jobs.
After sanding the surface, clean it with water and a sponge. Let it dry again.
Step-3: Coating Primer on Surface
Primers make your paint jobs look more vibrant and smooth. Imperfections, cracks, and stains can be covered up, giving your paint to sit on an even canvas.
When painting a primer, keep your windows open so that fumes can escape. Primers can be applied with brushes, rollers, and sprayers.
However, it is best to first brush the areas that a roller can’t reach; before using rollers to fill in. Make sure the whole surface is evenly coated!
Step-4: Curing Before Recoating or Painting
Recoating or painting over wet primer is a recipe for a mess.
It is important to make sure the primer is left alone for drying. Kilz 2 requires 1 hour before getting recoated or painted over.
For wooden surfaces, sanding and cleaning should be done again after one layer of primer.
Precautions
Before going to work, you need to take some precautions first. You need to do so to ensure that you don’t run into any problem.
Ladder Safety
Make sure your ladder is sturdy and functional. Do not lean too far for reaching spots. Move your ladder and climb again to paint.
Ventilation
Rooms that will be painted should be ventilated to let out fumes. It will also allow the paint to dry better.
Lead-Based Paint
Avoid scraping or sanding lead-based paint. It is highly toxic. Use a lead testing kit to check for its presence.
Personal Protective Gear (PPE)
It is best to do the paint job wearing PPE gears and goggles. Paints and cleaners contain chemicals and fumes that are hazardous to our skin and eyes.
FAQs
Can Kilz 2 primer be used as paint?
For covering surfaces with pores, it can be used as paint. However, without a top coating, with time, it will decay.
Are Kilz and Kilz 2 primers different?
Yes, they are different. Kilz or Kilz Original is an oil-based primer that is best at blocking odors and stains, with a higher VOC content. The Kilz 2 primer is water-based and has a lower VOC content than Kilz.
What temperature is optimum for using Kilz 2 Latex primer?
The optimum temperature for the air, surface, and product should be between 50 and 90F.
What is mildew?
It is a kind of fungus that grows in moist and warm areas. Mildew not only grows on walls but also on our food and papers. It appears as a patch of white or gray fungus.
Is caulking mandatory before priming?
Caulking helps fill in spots in walls that are not even. It helps the primer sit on a uniform surface. However, caulking does not stick to all kinds of surfaces. It sticks best to clean wood and vinyl surfaces.
Final Verdict
Overall, most of the issues related to priming walls can be solved by some simple steps. Few modifications may be needed depending on the issue.
After going through this article, two things should be known to you by now. First, what things could cause a primer to fail. Second, how to prepare the right base for priming and painting.
We hope that you can finally take up those DIY projects and ace them. Just the way you want. Feedbacks in the comments are highly appreciated!
That would be all from us. See you another time.