Tag: Primer Tips

Best of Primer Tips: What Did We Learn This Year?
November 21, 2023To inspire another productive year ahead, let our pro primer tips 2023 recap be your guide. You already know how important a good primer is to any successful painting project, but the finer point may be less clear. That’s why we’re recapping some of the best primer tips of the year and taking a moment to appreciate just how much we learned.
Tip #1: Save time, money, and labor by using primer.
Because it is formulated to solve specific problems before you paint, primer creates an ideal surface for lasting results. This means there’s less likelihood that you’ll have to retouch or redo a project in the short-term. By sealing porous surfaces evenly, for example, you’ll use fewer topcoats, and since primer costs less than the topcoat, using a primer first and then applying the topcoat is cheaper than applying multiple coats of topcoat only.
Tip #2: Choose the right primer for your substrate.
Before beginning any painting project, identify the type of surface you want to prime and paint. Different substrates accept coatings differently, which is why KILZ formulated a primer with each surface type in mind. Also take note of your surface’s condition. What circumstances should be addressed before applying a coating? Lastly, identify the environmental conditions where the surface is located. Is it damp? Will it be exposed to weather damage and temperature fluctuations? Each of these conditions dictates the primer and paint you choose to use.
Tip #3: Know your project details ahead of time so you can prepare.
Preparation is key before starting any paint project. You should know the products you’ll need and what steps to follow. For most projects, you can trust a multi-surface primer to prepare the surface for painting, but more complex situations require a specialty formula primer—such as mold, stains, and odors. Preparing for the job beforehand will help things run smoothly from start to finish. Not sure where to start? Review this checklist.
Tip #4: The right application can make a big difference.
Quality usually comes at a higher price than a cheaper alternative, but the results are worth it. Besides selecting a quality applicator, the construction of the applicator should be compatible with the chemistry of the coating being applied. Some brushes are built for water-based products, some are designed to work with oil-based products, and some will work with both. Most rollers are compatible with oil- and water-based products. This information is usually listed on the packaging, so make sure to check for it when choosing an applicator.
Tip #5: Know when to use primer and when paint & primer in one will work.
The idea of saving time and money by skipping a step in the painting process is appealing, and while many paint and primers in one (PPIO) boast this claim, it’s not always that simple. While it can work for some jobs, more specialized products will give you better results depending on the situation. For example, PPIO can work well on pre-painted surfaces without a drastic change in color or texture, but this is possibly the only reason to choose it. If your job is more complex than that, it’s best to opt for a specialized primer in addition to paint.
Tip #6: Understand the different types of sheen and choose wisely.
If chosen incorrectly, sheen can amplify surface imperfections, make a surface shinier (or flatter) than intended, or not provide enough durability for the space. Some sheens are easier to clean than others and can provide a barrier against moisture, mildew, and other grime. The darker and richer a paint color is, the more colorant it contains, which boosts sheen. If you’ve chosen a rich or dark paint, and you don’t want it to turn out super shiny, choose one with a lower sheen. In the same vein, if painting a large, sun-washed, or flawed surface, a lower sheen paint is best for hiding imperfections.
For more helpful tips like these, be sure to check back in with us so that you can tackle all your future projects with confidence. KILZ® Primers are here to make your DIY dreams a success. We hope you had a productive year and can’t wait to see what will inspire you in 2024.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

Tinting Primer
October 31, 2023What is tinting primer and what is the purpose?
Primer acts as a base coat and helps the paint adhere to the surface. Tinting the primer can help you achieve color matching with your desired paint color in fewer coats.
When is tinting primer necessary?
It is not absolutely necessary but recommended to help the topcoat paint achieve its true color in fewer coats. By tinting the primer especially if painting dark, deep, and rich colors or going from darker shade to a lighter one, it will lessen the work and coats needed to closely match the desired topcoat color.
Can I tint primer for drywall or previously painted walls?
Yes, most primers are white in color and can be tinted to a limited color palette.
How do I tint primer? Should I have a professional tint for me?
Most paint stores or home centers that sell paint have tinting machines and associates/employees who know how to do this.
Is there anything I should know before tinting the primer?
Label instructions about tinting of the primer should be followed. It is recommended to tint to a lighter shade than the topcoat color.
Can all primers be tinted?
Primers for residential painting typically come in white color and this is most suitable for tinting. Gray or pre-tinted primers do not need to be tinted. Aerosol primers cannot be tinted.
Can you tint a water-based primer?
Yes, water-based primers that are white or light color can be tinted.
Should I tint primer that will be used on mold and mildew?
These types of primers can typically still be tinted unless the label claims it should not be tinted or does not say that it is tintable.
Do I tint my primer with regular colored paint, or with a colorant?
Most paint stores or home centers and hardware stores that sell paint and have tinting capabilities will use tint machines which have the color formulations specific to brand, tint base type and other specifics already in their tint machine software. It is recommended to have the primer tinted in a store using colorants dispensed by a tinting machine.
What is a colorant?
Universal colorants are materials containing a color pigment dispersed in a blend of surfactants and a liquid (most often a glycol). The level of pigment is dependent on the type, color strength and pigment surface area – from paintinfo.com
In what use cases should you not tint primer?
Tinting primers is not needed if you are painting the same color as before or there is little change from the old color and the new one. Tinting primers is particularly helpful to lessen the number the coats needed to achieve truest color and when doing dramatic color changes.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

Pro Spotlight: James Mansour Shows The Power of a Good Primer when Upcycling
June 30, 2023My name is James Mansour, and I am the owner and operator of Mansour Valley Painting in Mesa, Arizona. I also go by The Arizona Painter online where I work to educate and share my love of painting, including the intricacies of the craft. With over 20 years of experience, my company specializes in exterior and interior painting while always emphasizing the importance of proper prep work. I am partnering with KILZ to highlight one of my favorite products, KILZ 3® PREMIUM Primer. I chose a DIY upcycling project because I am a huge supporter of teaching my customers and online audience how to properly prepare surfaces for paint, and then use paint to completely transform an object or space.
I love the idea of upcycling. Not only does it allow you the freedom to create a unique accent for your living space, but it is also sustainable and environmentally friendly. Upcycling is a term used to describe the process of repurposing old, unwanted things into unique, creative, and new items. By choosing to upcycle I am also contributing to waste reduction, conservation of natural resources, and allowing myself an opportunity to innovate. I knew I had to find the perfect piece for this project, so I started by paying a visit to a few local Goodwill stores. After much deliberation, I found a wooden wine rack that my wife loved. It was the perfect size and shape for the dividing wall between our kitchen and living room. In order to kick this project off right, I would need the perfect primer. I chose KILZ 3® PREMIUM Primer because it provides excellent adhesion, high-hide coverage, and excellent stain-blocking performance, making it the ideal primer for surfaces like wood.
Along with the KILZ 3® PREMIUM Primer, I used the following supplies to get started: a scrubber pad, 220 and 320-grit sandpaper, latex gloves, drop cloths, and mineral spirits. As a helpful tip, be sure to properly follow the safety instructions listed on the product labels or online for the correct application and use of the products.
Setting up my workspace was the next step. I used two tables to hold each piece of the wine rack after the disassembling process. With a screw gun in hand, I broke the wine rack down into individual pieces. I then used 220 grit sandpaper to remove the current finish and wiped each piece clean with mineral spirits, preparing them for the first coat of primer. I used a small ½-inch thick roller nap to apply KILZ 3® PREMIUM Primer. After allowing it to dry for only an hour, I lightly sanded all surfaces again and then was able to apply a second coat using the same size roller nap. Due to the mil thickness of the primer, it fills in the wood grain and any small scratches and imperfections in the wood, providing a perfectly smooth surface for paint application.
Since this piece will get used quite often, the superior adhesion provided by KILZ 3® PREMIUM Primer will prevent the topcoat from scratching and chipping, ensuring a longer lifespan. After the surface was properly primed and restored, I allowed it to dry for 24 hours. Once completely dried I used 320 grit sandpaper to smooth down all surfaces in preparation for the topcoat. For this project, I decided to use BEHR PREMIUM™ Spray Paint in Black Satin for the main legs and shelf brackets. Then I used BEHR PREMIUM™ Spray Paint with a Hammered Finish in Dark Bronze on the shelves and wine racks to give the piece more visual interest with a two-toned finish.
Finally, after another 24 hours of drying time, the rack was ready to be reassembled. It is important to give this additional cure time to make sure the surface is completely dry, and all the products are working together to provide the sleek, durable, and long-lasting finish I hope to get. Taking the time to prepare the surface properly helps save time and money as KILZ 3® PREMIUM Primer offers dependable and consistent results. Placing the piece in the perfect location on the divider wall, I felt I had achieved my desired outcome. It was another job done right with an Instagram-worthy finish, and a piece I can be proud of for years to come.
Thanks for joining me on another project,
James Mansour
The Arizona Painter
To learn more about primer solutions, visit kilz.com.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

What Are Paint Sheens and What’s the Difference?
June 29, 2023If you’re unfamiliar with the nuances of paint sheen, you’ve come to the right place. In the broadest terms, the higher the sheen a paint has, the higher the shine and the more durable it will be. Flat paint has no shine, while high-gloss paint is all shine, and the rest of the spectrum includes matte, eggshell, satin, and semi-gloss, which can be used for practical and decorative purposes alike.
What’s a Paint Sheen?
The paint sheen tells you how much light the paint reflects. Paints with higher sheens are shinier, and paints with lower sheens reflect less light. Higher-sheen paints have more enamel in them, which makes them shinier, more durable, and easier to clean. Lower-sheen paints are easier to look at because they have little to no glare.
Why does it matter?
If chosen incorrectly, sheen can amplify surface imperfections, make a surface shinier (or flatter) than intended, or not provide enough durability for the space. Some sheens are easier to clean than others and can provide a barrier against moisture, mildew, and other grime.
The darker and richer a paint color is, the more colorant it contains, which boosts sheen. If you’ve chosen a rich or dark paint, and you don’t want it to turn out super shiny, choose one with a lower sheen. In the same vein, if painting a large, sun-washed, or flawed surface, a lower sheen paint is best for hiding imperfections.
What Are the Different Paint Sheen Types?
• High Gloss: A highly reflective, glass-like finish that’s most durable and easiest to clean.
• Semi-Gloss: A sleek and luminous finish that is mildew, moisture, and wear resistant.
• Satin: A pearl-like finish that’s easy to clean and has moderate durability.
• Eggshell: A soft, velvety finish that covers imperfections while offering some durability.
• Matte: A low-luster finish that’s less durable, but easy to clean, touches up well, and hides minor surface imperfections.
• Flat: A non-reflective finish that touches up well and can hide minor surface imperfections.
Where to Use Common Types of Sheen
The type of sheen you choose for a particular room or surface is up to you, and many types can work well for the same area, but you may choose one over another depending on how much traffic the room sees (durability), how prone to dirt or moisture it is, or simply the decorative look you’re going for. Here are some recommendations to help get you started.
• Kitchens: A high or semi-gloss finish in the kitchen ensures your surfaces are more durable and easier to clean.
• Dining Rooms: For moderate-traffic areas like dining rooms, an eggshell finish will provide smooth, clean-looking walls.
• Bedrooms: A flat or matte finish is recommended as these absorb light, which can make those bright mornings more bearable.
• Bathrooms: Semi-gloss is great at protecting surfaces without being too reflective.
• Living Rooms: A satin finish is your best bet. It’s easy to clean and can stand up to high traffic.
• Hallways: An eggshell finish that’s easy to clean and resists dirt and grime is perfect for these moderate-traffic areas.
• Ceilings: Ceiling flat sheens are designed for ceilings and are extra splatter resistant.
• Brick/Masonry: Satin or eggshell is perfect for highly textured surfaces like brick; a moderate shine can help to conceal imperfections while giving off a pleasing glow.
• Cabinets: The higher the gloss, the easier it will be to clean and care for your cabinets.
Always Prime Before You Paint
We always recommend using one of our professionally trusted primers to ensure your hard work turns out as beautifully as you intended. Primer provides adhesion for any paint you choose, covers stains, prevents chips, and blocks odors, and helps your topcoat perform its best while achieving the truest possible color. Our primers are made for every project, so choosing the best one for the job is easy.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

What’s Really in the Can? Primer vs Paint & Primer in One
June 29, 2023Primer vs. Paint and Primer: Can All-in-One Do It All?
If you can skip a step in the painting process and still get the same results, it seems like a no-brainer. Many paint and primer in one (PPIO) products boast this claim, but should you always combine these steps and skip using a separate primer?
When to Choose a Self-Priming Paint
The benefit to using PPIO is that you can achieve similar results in less time. However, there are some things to know before you choose to go this route.
PPIO can work for some jobs, but different products will give you better results depending on the situation. For example, PPIO can work well on pre-painted surfaces without a drastic change in color or texture. However, this is possibly the only reason to choose it.
Why You Should Prime Separately
The goal of any primer is to prepare the surface for a coat of paint. This ensures good adhesion to the substrate and the topcoat. You may also need to block stains and odors, protect walls from mold or mildew growth, change the color, or refresh an old or damaged surface. Be mindful of the nature of your job before deciding to forgo primer as a first step, as it is often explicitly formulated to alleviate many of these surface problems, whereas an all-in-one product is typically not.
When to Choose a Primer
Suppose a surface has never been painted, as with drywall, a traditional primer is a must. If painting a glossy surface with less glossy paint, priming beforehand will ensure adhesion, and your results remain uniform. Priming separately is essential if painting over oil-based paint with acrylic or latex.
Other cases that require a primer before paint include:
• Any bare surface
• Porous surfaces
• Raw, unfinished wood
• Knotty wood
• Woods with tannins – like Cedar or Redwood
• Uncoated metal
• Unfinished drywall
• Masonry
• Stained surfaces
• Slick surfaces – like tile or laminate
Summary
Whether you choose to go the all-in-one route or choose a separate primer and paint, choosing high-quality products suited for your surface’s condition is crucial. KILZ® primers are formulated for your specific surface issues, such as KILZ RESTORATION® to block tough stains like water damage or KILZ® MOLD & MILDEW to create a mold and mildew-resistant film for use in high-humidity rooms. KILZ 3® PREMIUM is designed to have a thicker formula to improve customer experience and hide. No matter the surface, you can be sure there’s a primer formulated for the job. When you consider how much time and money you invest in your project, choosing the best quality products from the start makes all the difference.
Come back for more tips, tricks, and inspiration, and as always, happy DIY-ing.
Refer to our website, kilz.com, or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on applying our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

The Right Applicator Can Make a Big Difference
April 27, 2023
When doing a paint project, does the applicator (brush, roller, etc.) make a difference? Why?
The right applicator can make all the difference! I often spend extra time with customers explaining how a quality applicator can save time and frustration during a project. Quality usually comes at a higher price than a cheaper alternative, but the results are worth it. One of my favorite comments to hear from customers is, “I’m glad I ran into you today.”
Besides selecting a quality applicator, the construction of the applicator should be compatible with the chemistry of the coating being applied. Some brushes are built for water-based products, some are designed to work with oil-based products, and some are designed to work with both. Most rollers are compatible with oil- and water-based products. This information is usually listed on the packaging, so make sure to check for it when selecting an applicator. Regardless of how you choose to apply the coating, the quality of the applicator makes a big difference.
How do you choose the right applicator? What should you look for?
I look for quality applicators that will deliver the best results for the project. The best applicator for the project should have characteristics that match the features of the coating you are applying and the surface conditions. When painting with a higher sheen, like satin or semi-gloss, on doors, trim, or crown molding, customers want the smoothest finish with the fewest brush marks. For this project, use a high-quality brush with nylon bristles. Nylon bristles are soft and compatible with all paints, so they leave a very smooth finish.
Consumers should look for brushes that are packaged in reusable storage sleeves which usually means better construction and longer life. Rollers should be chosen based on the roughness of the surface: larger nap rollers for rougher surfaces, and shorter nap rollers for smoother surfaces. You can reference the paint can’s label and the technical data sheets (TDS) for application recommendations (see example below).
When should you use a brush vs. a roller vs. sprayer? Are sprayers only for professionals?
The choice between a paint brush, roller, or sprayer depends on the type of surface you are painting, the type of paint you are using, and the results you want to achieve.
A paint brush is ideal for smaller surfaces such as trim or molding, painting into corners between walls, and where a high degree of precision is required. Brushes offer the most control and the least product drips and spatters (paint thrown off during application). They are also the best choice for thin products like stain or polyurethane. They are very useful on uneven or textured surfaces by allowing you to work the coating into any grooves. Angled brushes are great for painting straight lines and cutting in around trim or door casings. Flat brushes are suitable for filling in large areas like clapboard siding.
Rollers are great for large, flat, and unbroken surfaces with uniform texture, like ceilings and walls. They are very versatile and can be used to apply wall paints and even heavy-bodied coatings like textured paints. It is important to pick the proper nap length, depending on the coating recommendations and the texture of the surface. Rollers can cause spattering so care should be taken to minimize this to avoid a mess. The choice of high-quality paint, comparable roller cover, and proper pacing usually help mitigate spatter.
Airless paint sprayers offer the best potential finish but require the most preparation and user skill. These sprayers push paint at very high pressure so adjacent surfaces must be thoroughly masked and protected to avoid overspray. You don’t have to be a pro to use a sprayer, but you must take great care to ensure the project is done safely. Anyone interested in using a paint sprayer should carefully follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Some sprayer companies have great how-to videos on their websites and on YouTube for tips and to ensure an excellent project result.
Any tips on how to correctly use a brush or roller?
For Brushes: Hold the brush like a pencil when painting tight, precise areas. This will give you greater control and make it easier to keep straight lines. Place your fingertips on the ferrule (the area where the brush handle connects to the head) and the handle between your thumb and index finger. This will create balance and help with control. Hold the brush with the slightest pressure required to maintain control as this will help reduce fatigue. To fill in large expansive surfaces and smooth any sags before they dry, hold the brush sideways.
For Rollers: Use an extension pole whenever possible to offer leverage and save you from fatigue. Think of the principle of the lever: the longer the handle you can use in the space, the less effort you must exert on the end of the handle to control the roller. Even a short extension pole can make the job a lot easier. Most extension poles are adjustable to allow you to shorten or lengthen as needed.
Listen to the sound the roller makes while applying the product. A properly loaded roller makes application easier and more uniform. A roller that is too dry can lead to uneven coverage or sheen. When the roller cover becomes too dry it will make a sticky sound as it moves over the surface, like an alert to you to reload to ensure uniform performance. This leads to a second reason to use an extension pole; it makes it easier to spin the roller handle while moving from the paint source to the wall. Spinning the handle during this step helps minimize drips from the applicator.
Follow these tips and refer to label recommendations to ensure great project results.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

The Ultimate Painting Checklist for Any Project
April 26, 2023Preparation is key before starting any paint project in your home. You should know the products you’ll need and what steps to follow. Whether you’re looking to spruce up some old cabinets, repaint an entire room, or refresh an outdoor patio, knowing what to expect will help ensure things run smoothly from start to finish.
Plan Your Approach
There’s a lot to consider when painting different spaces. For indoor and outdoor paint jobs alike, you’ll need to think about the surface—wood, brick, drywall, etc.— its condition, and the function of the space. Are you painting a backyard deck or refreshing kitchen cabinets? Are you changing the color of your bedroom or restoring a water-stained ceiling?
The chosen primer directly influences the success of your project. This crucial step will save you time and money in the long run and make your final color the best it can be.
Choose Your Color
With so many available options, it’s a good idea to test a few different color samples in various lighting conditions before making a final decision. If you’re keeping existing furniture or art in a room, consider how they work with your chosen shade beforehand.
Choose the Right Primer
For most projects, you can trust a multi-surface primer to prepare the surface for painting. More complex situations require a primer specially engineered for those cases—such as mold, stain, and odors.
Oil-based primers are often better at blocking or sealing stains, especially water-soluble stains. They’re also usually superior at blocking tannin bleed and unwanted odors.
• Choose to prime over a previous oil-based paint.
• Choose to prime on fresh, unsealed, or knotty wood.
• Choose if you need to cover severe stains or odors.
Water-based primers—or “latex” primers—are easier to clean (using soap and water), dry fast, and have low VOCs, making them healthier for you and the environment.
• Choose if priming indoors where ventilation is poor and in spaces sensitive to strong odors.
• Choose when projects require a lower VOC level product, if there is a flammability concern, and/or when there is a preference for clean-up without harsh chemicals.
Our Pro Primer Recommendations:
• KILZ® Mold & Mildew Interior and Exterior Primer: Water-based primer. Ideal for use in high humidity, high moisture, and high-temperature environments.
• KILZ Restoration® Interior Primer: Water-based primer. Ideal for interior, multi-surface paint jobs that may require tough stain blocking and heavy odor coverage.
• KILZ 2® All-Purpose Interior and Exterior Primer: Water-based primer. Great overall interior/exterior primer. Ideal for changing wall colors.
• KILZ 3® Premium Interior and Exterior Primer: Water-based primer. Fast drying, great for adhesion and hiding surface imperfections. It provides a mildew-resistant coating, making it ideal for moisture-prone areas.
What Else Do I Need to Paint a Room? (Supply Checklist)
Depending on the nature of the job, these items can make your life easier.
• Paint roller + Tray – Rollers hold more paint than brushes and can distribute even layers of paint much faster.
• Paint sprayer – For a smooth, professional finish.
• Paint scraper – Removes unwanted layers of paint.
• Trim paint brush – For trimming around windows, molding, and door frames.
• Painter’s tape – A must for creating precise lines and neat edges.
• Sandpaper – For smoothing and prepping surfaces.
• Putty knife – Creates a smooth wall or ceiling surface.
• Drop cloth – Use to protect your furniture and floors.
• Stepladder – For reaching ceilings and the tops of walls.
• Extension pole – To extend your roller’s reach without a ladder.
• Paint guide (edge guard) – Neatly paint molding, trim, and windowpanes without painter’s tape.
Any painting project takes focus, but having the right plan, primer, and tools ahead of time will save you time and money and make you feel like a pro in no time. We hope this inspires your next project, no matter how big or small. Be sure to come back to the blog for more DIY tips, tricks, and ideas.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

Primers Save You Time, Money, and Labor
January 18, 2023Primer is essential to properly prepare a surface for the best results for your paint project. Many issues can ruin a project and not make it look its best, affecting your time and money. This could lead to purchasing more paint due to a porous surface not being sealed or using more coats to hide that old color. Priming provides a clean slate for the color of your topcoat to shine. Additionally, primer helps hide any stains, such as water leaks, pet accidents, or years of smoke residue. Some paints have trouble adhering to certain surfaces, which could result in chipping, flaking, or peeling over time. Primer acts like glue to help the topcoat adhere and last longer.
Primer can save you time by sealing porous surfaces evenly and resulting in fewer coats of topcoats. Primer acts as an “anchor” for the paint to adhere to the painted surface, reducing the probability of retouching paint and re-doing a project sooner. For those more technically advanced, primers hold a unique feature that allows you to paint on a new concrete or masonry surface sooner.
Primer can save you money because it is formulated to solve specific problems before you paint, creating a suitable surface for lasting results. Primer costs less than the topcoat, so using a primer first and then applying the topcoat would be cheaper than applying multiple coats of topcoat only. You also save money in the long term due to better, longer-lasting results, which means less need to repaint or repair.
Primers can save you labor because they provide an ideal base coat to which the topcoat can adhere better and result in a better-looking, longer-lasting paint finish. Applying primer also can solve several problems, and best prepare the surface for painting, resulting in less time and later labor do-overs.
The KILZ brand offers primer for all types of substrate and surface issues. Check out our offering here!
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply our products. Check out our Coverage Calculator to understand your estimated paint needs for your upcoming project.

Tips from the Team
January 17, 2023Here on the Perfect Finish, we are starting the year 2023 with our favorite paint category: Primer! Thomas McEvoy, a KILZ product trainer and training content developer, teaches us the importance of preparing the surfaces of your home and using primer during any painting project. Thomas’s favorite part of working for Behr Paint Company and with the KILZ team is the people and their enthusiasm to make the best products and service experience for our customers. Thomas has been with Behr for 20 years and is here to share his experience with you to help get prepared for your painting project.
Why should an individual prep the surfaces of their home?
Preparation is critical because most paint failures, such as paint peeling, old color bleeding through, and wear and tear over time, occur because of skipped prep steps. The best way to prep the surface is to promote adhesion (how the paint sticks to the surface), sealing (adding a protective coat), and stain-blocking if needed. Using a suitable primer promotes adhesion by bonding the surface that adheres to the topcoat. Using the right primer can achieve the aspects of a properly prepared surface.
How do I properly prepare a surface before priming and painting?
Here are a few ways to prepare your surface.
1. Lightly sand hard or slick surfaces to promote adhesionSanding can also remove physical imperfections accumulated over time. Any surface that has been lightly sanded during prep will usually lead to a softer texture after painting.
2. Painting over unsealed surfaces can lead to color variation, unevenness in paint sheen, the need to apply more paint, and, eventually, the peeling of the paint. Using a good primer is an important step before painting.
3. When stain-blocking is needed, only the right primer can ensure no bleed through the topcoat. This prep step is critical to ensure we paint over a sound surface.
When is the best time to prepare your surface?
The best time to prep the surface is before you paint and after clearing the space as much as possible and protecting surfaces like carpet and furniture. Time spent on prep will save frustration and added expense later.
What tools do I need to prepare a surface?
There are many tools to have in a paint kit for current and future projects. A large plastic tote can hold several drop cloths and most smaller tools. I recommend the following tools to get the job done right:
• Dust mask
• Sanding pad, 80-200 grit
• Pole sander with sandpaper, 60-80 grit
• Step ladder
• Painter’s tape for protecting baseboards, doors, and window casing
• Drop cloths, canvas, or other reusable material
• Plastic, for protecting furniture
• Rags to wipe dirty and dusty surfaces
Having the right tools is a critical part of project success. Most of these tools can be used again for many other projects.
Where do I go to find the right primer?
Check out KILZ.com to research the right primer for your project. After, visit your local hardware store or retailer to engage with a thoughtful paint associate that can help with what works for you, and secure the rest of the tools needed for a successful project.
Can I do this myself? Or should I call an expert?
Both are options! You can do this job, or if you prefer, you can call a professional painter to complete your project. Check out your local hardware store and ask a paint associate to help coordinate what is needed for your specific project.
Always remember to refer to our website kilz.com or product back labels for additional information on which primer is right for your project and detailed instructions on how to apply
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