Stains and varnishes can create a smooth, less porous surface on wood, leading to significant adhesion issues when painting. Without proper preparation, paint may peel or fail to bond, especially on exterior surfaces exposed to the elements. However, you can paint over exterior varnished surfaces and woodstained furniture with the right Zinsser products. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare stained or varnished wood for painting, to ensure a durable, flawless finish that stands up to weather and wear.
All surfaces must be clean, dry and free from anything that will interfere with the adhesion of the materials to be applied. Remove loose and failing material by scraping or by the use of a hot air stripper to a sound edge.
Feather sound edges with a fine grade abrasive paper. Prior to painting, the moisture content should not exceed 12%. Remove all dust. Remove all visible signs of organic growth and treat the areas with a proprietary mould killer and remover in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. Allow to dry.
In any areas with remaining sound paint wash clean down with Zinsser Universal Cleaner & Degreaser to remove any contaminants. Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove all residues. Allow to dry.
Fill any cracks and small surface defects with a suitable filler in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow to dry. Rub down with a fine grade abrasive paper. Remove all dust.
Prime all areas to be decorated with one full coat of Cover Stain® primer sealer in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow a minimum drying time of 2 hours in normal drying conditions.
Decorate with two full coats of AllCoat® Exterior Satin or Gloss in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Allow a minimum drying time of one hour between coats. It is recommended to stripe coat edges to promote adhesion.
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Tyne & Wear
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