Using a high-performance primer is an important step when renovating properties. A good primer can reduce odors, block stains and prevent mold, mildew and rust build-up.
Eradicate Odors
Tackling a renovation painting job that has seen smoke damage stains from fire or nicotine is a big challenge. Strong pet and food odors can cause problems, too. The molecules that carry those odors stick to every surface, including painted walls. The best line of defense is to prep those surfaces- subfloors, drywall, woodwork, plaster, masonry, and more- before with a high-quality primer like KILZ. Taking the extra step of priming before painting can block medium to severe odors, even from major smoke damage. Primer creates a barrier that seals odors away, therefore preventing odors from penetrating new paint.
Block Stains
Another big issue primer can help hide is stubborn stains. Whether from heavy water or smoke damage, graffiti or permanent marker, grease or makeup, a couple coats of a high-quality primer prepares surfaces for painting so stains don’t show through. Priming sets up a smooth, clean surface in order to achieve a professional-looking quality finish in fewer coats. A severe stain blocking primer can even block persistent tannin stains from the knots in cedar and redwood—an important feature when using common lumber for painted interior work. The tendency for tannins to “bleed” through paint is greatly reduced by priming the lumber first.
Prevent Mold, Mildew and Rust
Mold, mildew and rust build-up are tricky problems to deal with while renovating. Mold and mildew grow and thrive in humid, wet areas. Rust also develops due to water exposure—it’s a chemical reaction that occurs when the iron particles of steel combine with oxygen and water. The first step is to remove the build-up. For mold and mildew, take special care to protect yourself and the area, then clean the infestation with strong detergent and let it dry thoroughly. For rust, scuff sand the metal to create as smooth a surface as possible. The next step is crucial to prevent future build-up of mold, mildew or rust. That’s right—priming! A primer formula with mold- and mildew-preventing ingredients helps prevent future growth and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including porous ones like grout. For sound surfaces with rust, a direct-to-rust primer that is rust-inhibitive could be directly applied and help seal the rust in; thus preventing it from coming through to the new topcoat paint finish.
Learn more about mold and mildew-resistant and stain-blocking primer at www.kilz.com.
