How to use Cover Stain

Key Features of Cover Stain®

High Coverage

Cover Stain® has a high coverage of 9.8m² per litre so that fewer coats of paint are required, saving you time and money in the long run. Coverage may vary depending on method of application and surface porosity.

Quick Drying

Touch dry in 30 minutes, Cover Stain® is the only solvent based interior/exterior primer, sealer, stain killer and bond coat that is recoatable in 2 hours, allowing you to complete your project fast and move onto the next job.

Versatile Application

Cover Stain® is an exceptional stain-blocking primer-sealer designed to block and seal a wide variety of stains, making it a must-have for professional decorators. Its advanced formula effectively tackles stubborn stains from water, smoke, nicotine, and fire, ensuring that they don’t bleed through to your topcoat. Cover Stain® provides a robust barrier that prevents stains from reappearing, giving you a clean and uniform surface for a flawless finish.

Cover Stain® has a unique, high hiding formula that expertly blocks a wide variety of stains including:

  • Nicotine
  • Mould, mildew and water stains
  • Smoke and fire damage
  • Water-soluble tannin bleed on cedar and redwood.

Recommended uses
When it comes to tackling surfaces damaged by fire, smoke, or water, Cover Stain® is your ultimate primer. Its versatility makes it perfect for a wide range of applications, both inside and out.

  • Cover Stain® is highly effective on ceilings, walls, doors, trim, cabinets, and furniture. It ensures that any damage from fire, smoke, or water is thoroughly sealed, providing a smooth, clean base for your topcoat.
  • Cover Stain® excels in addressing issues with siding, fascia, soffits, trim, doors, walls, foundations, and railings. Its robust formulation stands up to the elements, making it ideal for surfaces exposed to fire, smoke, or water damage.

With Cover Stain®, you can achieve a flawless, long-lasting finish on virtually any paintable surface, making it a reliable choice for professional decorators dealing with challenging projects.

Interior and Exterior Use

Cover Stain® is the go-to primer for tackling fire, smoke or water-damaged surfaces. Its versatility makes it ideal for both interior and exterior applications.

Interior Surfaces: New or previously painted, cured plaster and cement-based coatings, wood (pine, fir, cedar, redwood, plywood), metal (aluminium, iron, steel, copper), vinyl, PVC, masonry (stucco, concrete block, poured concrete, brick).

Exterior Surfaces: New or previously painted wood (pine, fir, cedar, redwood, pressure-treated wood), hardboard, metal (aluminium, iron, steel, copper), vinyl, PVC.

Surface Preparation

1
Step 1

Ensure all surfaces are clean, dry, and sound. Remove dust, dirt, excessive chalky material, grime, grease, oil, wax, mildew, wallpaper, adhesive or any contaminants that could affect adhesion. If unsure about cleanliness, wash the surface with an appropriate ammoniated cleaning solution or solvent.

2
Step 2

Scrape away any peeling or unsound coatings. Smooth remaining paint film edges with sanding. For exterior wood, lightly sand exposed exterior wood (80 to 100-grit sandpaper) to remove loose fibres and mill glaze.

3
Step 3

Attempt to remove as much of the stain as possible through washing, sanding, or scraping before priming.

Application Process

For a professional finish, proper surface preparation and the right application methods are crucial. Cover Stain® excels at handling fire, smoke, and water damage on both interior and exterior surfaces.

Ensure surfaces are clean and well-prepped before applying Cover Stain® to seal stains. Whether using a brush, roller or sprayer, choose the method that best suits your project for an even, durable finish. With Cover Stain®, you’ll achieve a high-quality result every time.

Preparation

  • Ensure the primer is well-mixed before use.
  • Allow the product to reach room temperature before application.
  • Use in a well-ventilated area, avoiding high humidity.

Application

  • Generally, one coat suffices for most surfaces. On very porous substrates, a second coat may be necessary.
  • Spot priming is recommended only under high hiding topcoat paints. For best results, prime the entire surface before painting.

Methods

  • Brush/Roller/Pad: Apply with a natural or synthetic bristle brush, roller or pad.
  • Spray Equipment: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for spray equipment. For airless spraying, use a 0.015" to 0.017" tip at 1800 to 2200 PSI.

Drying and Recoating

Understanding the drying times for Cover Stain® is crucial for effective project planning and achieving optimal results.

  • Cover Stain® is touch dry in 30 minutes
  • Provides a full cure in 4-7 days
  • Is recoatable in 2 hours

Sign Up To Our Newsletter

Be the first to receive exclusive news, expert advice, competition details and more. Stay up to date with Zinsser and sign up to receive our email newsletter.

Contact

Computershare Governance Services
The Pavilions
Bridgwater Road
Bristol
BS13 8FD
Company number: 04503854

Tor Coatings Ltd
21 White Rose Way
Follingsby Park
Gateshead
Tyne & Wear
NE10 8YX