
Kilz Primer is a brand of stain-blocking interior base paint used to pre-treat surfaces that have been blemished by water damage, pencil, marker, grease, ink, crayon, nicotine, and other types of discoloration. Due to its viscosity, the product must be thinned down for use in a paint sprayer. While some users have reported success in thinning the primer and using it in a Wagner sprayer, others have expressed disappointment with the sprayer's performance, citing issues such as clogging and erratic spraying. It is recommended to use a small airless sprayer and spray the primer right out of the can without thinning it. When using an electric sprayer, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for loading the sprayer and applying the primer to the prepared surface using wide, steady strokes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Kilz Primer | A brand of stain-blocking interior base paint |
| Use | Pretreat surfaces blemished by water damage, pencil, marker, grease, ink, crayon, nicotine, and other types of discoloration |
| Surfaces | Wood, plaster, brick, drywall, paneling, masonry, and painted metal |
| Application | Brushed, rolled, or sprayed on a surface |
| Paint sprayer | Thin the Kilz primer before spraying |
| Spraying technique | Wide, steady strokes to avoid running |
| Thinning | Add 1 to 1/2 ounces of water to the mixture |
| Sprayers | Wagner sprayers are not recommended due to erratic performance and clogging |
| Coverage | Up to 300 sq. ft. per gallon on porous surfaces; up to 400 sq. ft. per gallon on smooth, nonporous surfaces |
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$79.98 $119.99
What You'll Learn

Thinning Kilz2 for spraying
To thin Kilz2 for spraying, you can add a small amount of water, but be careful not to add too much. The recommended amount is no more than 1/2 pint of water per gallon of Kilz2. It's important to stir the mixture thoroughly before and during use to ensure that the primer and water are evenly combined.
Some people have reported success in thinning Kilz2 by adding a latex paint conditioner, such as Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3, to the mixture. This can help the paint glide on more smoothly and reduce the amount of thinning required.
It's worth noting that some sprayers may not work well with thinned Kilz2. For example, some users have reported that Wagner sprayers can be slow and may require frequent cleaning when used with Kilz products, even after thinning. Therefore, it is recommended to use an air-powered sprayer or a commercial-grade sprayer with both air and a piston pump for better results.
Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for both the Kilz2 primer and your chosen sprayer to ensure compatibility and proper thinning techniques.
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Using a floor model airless sprayer
Kilz2 is a thick primer that can be challenging to use with handheld sprayers, as evidenced by several users' accounts of their disappointing experiences with the Wagner sprayer. The primer tends to clog the sprayer, resulting in erratic performance, pulsing, and periods of inactivity. Thinning the primer may help to some extent, but it can be a challenging and time-consuming process due to the lack of thinning instructions and troubleshooting information provided by the manufacturer.
On the other hand, floor model airless sprayers can handle thicker paints without thinning. Users have reported success with commercial-grade sprayers that have both air and a piston pump, as well as Graco airless sprayers purchased from Home Depot or similar retailers. These sprayers can push thick paint through long tubes without issues.
It is important to note that Kilz Primer is not recommended for use on flooring by the manufacturer, Masterchem Industries. Additionally, it is always a good idea to pressure wash the surface and let it dry before applying any primer or paint. For the best adhesion, consider having someone follow behind the sprayer with a roller to roll the primer or paint into the surface.
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Using a handheld sprayer
When thinning Kilz2, it is important to follow general guidelines for thinning primers. A general recommendation is to add about 1/2 cup of water per gallon of primer. However, it is always best to refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific guidelines on thinning their product. Additionally, it is worth noting that thinning the primer too much can also be an issue, as it may result in a runny consistency that affects the quality of the finish.
In terms of the handheld sprayer itself, it is recommended to use a small airless sprayer for the best results. Handheld sprayers such as the Wagner PowerPainter Pro or the Wagner buzz-type sprayer have received mixed reviews when used with Kilz2. Some users have reported that these sprayers tend to sling the paint rather than spray it, resulting in an uneven finish. However, others have found that thinning the primer and using a larger spray tip can help improve the performance of these sprayers.
To use the handheld sprayer effectively, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for loading the sprayer and adjusting the settings. When spraying, use wide, steady strokes to avoid running and apply the primer in thin, even coats. It may be necessary to thin the primer further if clogging occurs. Additionally, it is important to clean the sprayer regularly to prevent buildup and maintain consistent performance.
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Comparing paint and sprayer specifications
When comparing paint and sprayer specifications, it is important to note that Kilz Primer is a heavy-duty primer with a higher viscosity. This means that it is thicker and may require more pressure to push it through the sprayer. Therefore, it is generally recommended to thin Kilz Primer with water before using it in a paint sprayer. However, the degree of thinning and the specific type of sprayer used can vary depending on the desired results and the surface being treated.
For example, some users have reported success spraying Kilz Primer with a Wagner handheld sprayer, but it is worth noting that this process can be slow and may require frequent cleaning. Additionally, thinning the primer with water may be necessary to achieve the desired consistency and avoid splotchy results.
On the other hand, other users have recommended using a floor model airless sprayer or a commercial-grade sprayer with both air and a piston pump to handle the thicker consistency of Kilz Primer without excessive thinning. These types of sprayers are designed to handle higher pressures and can push the primer through a longer tube more effectively.
It is also important to consider the nozzle size and spray settings when using Kilz Primer in a sprayer. A larger nozzle size is generally recommended for thicker coatings, and adjusting the spray width can help achieve the desired coverage and minimize overspray. Testing the spray settings on a small area before starting the full project is crucial to ensure optimal results.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that Kilz offers different variations of their primer products, such as Kilz Original, Kilz 2, Kilz Max, and Kilz Complete Coat, each with slightly different consistencies. Kilz Original and Kilz 2 are thicker and may require a higher spray tip size, while Kilz Max and Kilz Complete Coat are thinner and can be sprayed with a smaller tip size. Referring to the manufacturer's instructions for specific recommendations on thinning ratios and spray settings is always advisable.
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Cleaning the sprayer
Cleaning your electric sprayer is an important step to ensure it functions at maximum performance and efficiency. Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning your electric sprayer after spraying Kilz2:
First, wear proper safety gear. As you will be dealing with harsh chemicals, wear rubber gloves, safety goggles, and a face shield to protect yourself from splashes.
Next, you will need to flush your sprayer. Refer to the back of the Kilz2 paint container for the appropriate cleaning solution. Do not use liquids with a flashpoint of less than 100°F (38°C) as they can ignite. For most herbicides, an ammonia-based cleaning solution is effective. Mix about 1 ounce (30 mL) of ammonia with 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water. If ammonia is not suitable, consider using bleach solution, powdered detergent, kerosene solution, or de-greasing liquid dish soap, especially for petroleum-based chemicals.
Now, fill the reservoir halfway with the cleaning solution. Spray the solution through the sprayer at least three times to flush the wand and nozzle.
After flushing, leave the sprayer to rest overnight with the reservoir about half full of cleaning solution.
Finally, the next day, flush the sprayer with clean water, and then again with mineral spirits. Wipe the sprayer hose and gun with a rag soaked in water or mineral spirits.
Properly cleaning your sprayer and storing it in a safe, dry place will ensure your electric sprayer is ready for future use.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, but it is not recommended. Kilz2 is a thick primer that requires a lot of pressure to push it through the gun. If you use a Wagner sprayer, you will likely need to thin the paint significantly, and it may still not work.
Thinning Kilz2 can be difficult because there is no viscosity information provided in the instructions. Some people have had success thinning it with water, but this can make it splotchy. You could also try thinning it with denatured alcohol and water, but be aware that the alcohol may cause it to dry too quickly.
A small airless sprayer is recommended for spraying Kilz2. You can buy or rent one, and you won't need to thin the paint.











































