Klass Kote Epoxy Paints and Urethane Paints can be applied on and generally adhere to almost any properly prepared surface. When painting metal surfaces or any other acceptable substance the key will be the work needed to prepare your surface properly. The following text gives some general guidelines for proper surface preparation. Your substrate to be coated may require more or less preparation, based on their condition.

Generally speaking, the more work done during the surface preparation phase, the better the outcome of the coating project.

Whenever using Klass Kote Quality Coatings as a primer for wood, metal, fiberglass, glass, masonry, or plastics be sure to refer to the label for each product and follow any safety precautions spelled out on the label.  It is also very helpful to completely read  our Product Data Sheets for any Klass Kote Quality Coating products you are using.

The following describes techniques for general surface preparation for paint priming.  More specific steps to undertake for any given surface are described on the left panel.

The quality of surface preparation and repair on any new, or repaint surface, significantly affects the amount of preparatory work that will be required before any repaints. Surface preparation and surface repair are the most important requirements for maximum durability and adhesion for any paint – but especially epoxy paints. Be sure to completely clean, and prepare your surface before you start to paint it. Once painted, results of surface preparation and repair are quickly concealed by the first coat of paint, and the effects are not usually evident until premature paint failure occurs.

Examine the surface to be painted. Check for peeling and faded paint, dirt, chalking, grease, cracking, knots, wax, any bare areas, mildew, rust, nail stains, holes, structural problems, etc. All surfaces, whether painted or unpainted, must be clean, free from shine, grit, was, grease, or any other thing that will impede adhesion.

LOOSE AND PEELING PAINT

Be sure to remove any loose and peeling paint by scraping either with a wire brush, mechanical scraper/sander, and/or power-wash the surface. Remember – the surface can never be too clean! You can feather-sand rough edges smooth until they blend in completely with bare surface.

DIRT, GREASE, OIL, WAX, CHALK AND UNDER-EAVE DEPOSITS and MILDEW

Remove these types of deposits by washing with a detergent solution such as Tri Sodium Phosphate (TSP) or commercial cleaner recommended for cleaning painted surfaces. Use a sponge or brush to clean. Remove any deposits from protected areas, such as under eaves and overhangs, and pay special attention to remove invisible deposits that can impede adhesion. After washing, thoroughly rinse with clean water and allow to dry thoroughly. Power-washing is a good and effective method of removing dirt, chalk, loose scale, etc. If a power-washer is used, follow the manufacturer's recommendations and warnings, and be sure to allow extra time for your surface to dry completely before coating.

If any spotty patches that look like dirt, but do not come off when scrubbed with detergent solution are present – they are possibly mildew. Mildew must be completely removed – or it will continue to grow under coated surfaces.

Clean and remove and mildew that is present, by applying a solution of one part household bleach and three parts water. You can also use a good commercial mildew remover. Wear rubber gloves, goggles, long-sleeved shirt, long pants, etc. to protect eyes and skin when using a mildew remover.

RUST

If any rust is present, remove all of it rust by sandblasting, or the use of a wire brushing, steel wool pad, or sander/sandpaper.

CRACKS, SPLITS AND OPEN JOINTS, GLOSSY SURFACES & WAX

Any cracks, or open joints, where any moisture may enter should be caulked with a high-quality, paintable caulk or bondo.

Always clean glossy or waxy surfaces with by using sand paper or other abrasive pad. Then wash with water and detergent solution and allow to thoroughly dry. Then wipe the surface clean with a rag lightly soaked with Epoxy Reducer #500.

If you are undertaking a large or complex surface coating project, for helpful information it may be useful to consult the:

The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC)

They have numerous training seminars/modules on a host of subjects related to all types of coating projects.