Killz

[Hyperion]

I am in the middle of the medium-sized task of refurbishing my fiancee's sailboat. The hull, deck and rigging are sound, but the cabin was not well maintained. After scouring the archives here at SailNet, it seemed as though some people have had good results using Killz as a primer and sealer.

While my test isn't truly scientific insofar as I didn't test any other products, I can say that after a light sanding of all the surfaces, along with a wash of TSP, the Killz went on great and has excellent coverage. I am sure there must be better, marine-specific products out there, but given Home Depot's sale on Killz which translated into about $30 for a thorough, two coat coverage of the entire interior, I definitely can't complain.

Two thumbs up.

[Bardo]

Just make sure that your topcoat is compatible with the type of Killz that you are using. They make both a water and oil-based product. What are you going to finish it with?

[Hyperion]

And suddenly the wind has come out of my sails...

I didn't know there were two different types. I guess then that will determine what I'm finishing it with. Was planning on going with an Interlux gelcoat. Do you have any experience with Killz? Do you know what is compatible?

[Bardo]

I have no experience with marine applications of Kilz, but alot on the hard. Look at the can of Kilz, and see if it is the water-based product or the oil. You might want to get professional advice from the manufacturer of your choice of topcoats as to the primer compatability. I have been recommended the System 3 WR LPU, which is a water based topcoat which is good below decks as well. I have heard good things about it, but have not tried it yet. Go to Jamestown Distributors on line and look under paints, or directly to System 3 web site for more detail. Should not be a show-stopper, just make sure you have the right topcoat before you start.
Keep us posted!

[sailingdog]

Umm... gelcoat generally can't be applied over any finishes, other than gelcoat IIRC.

[paulk]

Killz also has long-term odor problems, if the stuff we used in our basement is any indicatation. In a closed area like a boat, there may be toxicity issues, too. The moist atmosphere may keep it from drying quickly and might prolong the effect. Call the Manufacturer.

[Hyperion]

Paul - are these odor problems perceptible? Or are you suggesting that the paint will continue to release noxious fumes that I won't be able to smell but will be potentially harmed by? I'm asking because I laid the second coat down last week, and after a week of steady sun, it's baked nicely and I can't smell a thing.

[danjarch]

All paints out gas. this will continue for some time. Anytime you leave the boat sitting with out any ventilation for any length of time, it will build up. Kilz is safe for houses, which means it's been approved for long term exposure. I would recommend you put a vent on the cabin deck, preferably solar powered. Of coarse i would recommend this irregardless of the kilz.

[RickLaPaz]

I never use Kilz on anything but on 'Escrow' stuff, i.e., only on something that needs to look good for91 days. The problem with Kilz is that it dries to quick to really penetrate the open pores and grain to do any good. You'd be better off spreading creamy Jif on your wood and throwing a coat on that.
And I don't use waterbase anything. Except drywall.

The best primers are the slow drying oilies that you can thin out by 20 percent-(for the first coat). Just like you do with varnish on bare wood. One coat of thinned, let dry, lightly sand and dust, and then a second coat full strength. Then your finish paint. One small prob with the slo-dries is that it will attract small bugs and such. If you can surround the painted area with a plastic drop cloth after painting, you stand a better chance of keeping the flies off. Good luck.........

RB