If you're looking for an effective way to remove mold from your property, you may have heard of Kilz paint as a potential solution. But does Kilz kill mold?
In this blog post, we'll answer that question and provide detailed instructions on using it safely for optimal results when dealing with water damage restoration or black mold removal projects.
We'll also discuss why professional services might be necessary to ensure complete protection against future outbreaks of toxic black molds. So whether you’re wondering, “does kilz kill mold” or are simply looking for ways to eliminate it quickly and efficiently, read on!
What is Kilz?
Kilz is a paint primer, sealer, and stain blocker that has been around since 1974. It covers stains, odors, and discoloration on walls and ceilings before painting them. Kilz also helps to block out moisture from the surface it’s applied to to prevent mold growth.
The product comes in several forms, including oil-based primers, latex primers, water-based primers, spray paints, aerosols, and more.
What is Kilz Used For?
Kilz can be used for various purposes, such as covering up water damage or smoke damage before painting over it, blocking out pet odors, preventing mildew growth, sealing wood surfaces before painting, hiding graffiti marks, concealing wallpaper glue residue, and much more.
It can also be used as an undercoat for other types of paint products like latex or oil-based paints.
Types of Kilz Products
The most popular type of Kilz product is the original oil-based primer, which provides excellent coverage for stains but takes longer to dry than other primers. Several variations are available, such as an odorless version with low VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that won't overpower your home with fumes while you're working on projects indoors.
Latex versions provide better adhesion than oil-based options, but they don't offer quite as much coverage against tough stains like smoke damage or grease spots on walls/ceilings, so they may require multiple coats depending on the severity of the issue being covered up.
Water-based formulas are great for quick cleanups because they dry faster than their counterparts. However, they lack some stain-blocking capabilities compared to oil-based varieties, so additional coats may need to be applied if necessary.
Does Kilz Kill Mold?
Kilz has a pretty cool name, suggesting it can kill mold. Unfortunately, that is not true. It can cover up stains on walls or ceilings, block out odors and prevent mildew growth.
Kilz cannot kill mold, but it can be a powerful agent in preventing mold growth if used as directed and if you use the correct type of Kilz, which is Kilz Mold & Mildew Interior|Exterior Primer. This Kilz primer should be used on top of mold-resistant drywall in rooms with high humidity such as bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
This gives you two layers of mold protection for your walls: the primer itself and the fiberglass facing on the mold-resistant drywall.
How Does Kilz Work Against Mold?
Kilz works against mold by creating an impenetrable barrier between the surface it’s applied to and the environment. This prevents moisture from seeping through and allows the treated area to dry out quickly, killing off mold spores.
Limitations of Using Kilz To Kill Mold:
Firstly, it’s important to note that applying too much product can create a hospitable environment for future growth due to its thick consistency trapping moisture beneath its surface layer. Secondly, if not properly sealed after applying paint or caulk, water could still penetrate, causing further damage.
Lastly, while Kilz does contain an EPA-registered active ingredient that creates a mold-resistant film, it isn't capable of protecting from future mold growth if dents or scratches damage it.
How to Use Kilz for Mold Prevention
Using Kilz to remove mold is a popular and effective solution for homeowners dealing with water damage or black mold growth in their homes. Understanding the steps necessary to apply Kilz and safety considerations when using it properly is important.
Steps for Preparing the Area for Treatment with Kilz
Before applying any paint or primer, you must prepare the area by cleaning it thoroughly and removing any loose debris. This primarily includes vacuuming any dust particles accumulated on walls or floors. Additionally, if there are any visible signs of mold growth, such as discoloration or staining, these should be treated before painting with a product designed to prevent mold growth.
Instructions for Applying Kilz to Remove Mold
You cannot “remove mold” with Kilz primer. The primer can cover mold stains but will not remove or kill existing mold on drywall. Once the area has been properly prepared, you can apply your Kilz paint/primer product according to manufacturer instructions.
Generally speaking, this involves rolling on two coats of primer over the surface using a brush or roller applicator. Allow each coat time to dry before adding another layer. Kilz Mold & Mildew primer states that it will dry in an hour from when you finish painting.
Tips for Ensuring Proper Application of Kilz To Kill Mold
To ensure that your treatment is successful at preventing future growth, cover every inch of surface area where possible – even small cracks in corners should not be overlooked.
You should also allow adequate drying time after completing your project (usually 24 hours) before introducing moisture into the room again through activities like showering or cooking.
Finally, remember that while products like Kilz are great at preventing future mold colonies, they do not kill current colonies. You should never paint over a mold-infested area in the hope that the paint will do the job because it simply cannot.
This is especially true if you have a large area of mold on your walls (10 square feet or more), because you likely have mold inside the wall, and you should have a professional company deal with it instead.
Safety Considerations When Using Kilz to Kill Mold
When using Kilz to prevent mold, it is important to take safety precautions. Protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator should be worn when working with the product. Additionally, ventilation requirements must be met to ensure proper air circulation when using Kilz in a confined space.
Lastly, leftover materials infested with mold must be disposed of properly according to local regulations.
Protective Gear Needed When Working with Kilz and Mold Removal
Protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and a respirator must be worn when handling any chemical product, including Kilz for mold removal. This will help protect your skin from coming into contact with the chemicals, which can cause irritation or other adverse reactions if not handled properly.
Ventilation Requirements When Using Kilz in a Confined Space
Proper ventilation is necessary when applying any chemical product indoors or in an enclosed area such as an attic or basement with inadequate airflow.
Ensure all windows and doors are open while applying the product so that fresh air can circulate throughout the room and reduce exposure to potentially hazardous fumes from the chemicals used in Kilz products for preventing mold growths on surfaces like walls or ceilings.
Professional Services for Removing and Preventing Future Growth of Mold
A professional service is trained to identify potential sources of moisture that could lead to further mold growth, as well as any existing colonies that may not be visible. They are also equipped with the proper tools and techniques to safely remove all traces of mold from your home without causing additional damage.
Additionally, they will advise you on how best to prevent future outbreaks by addressing any underlying causes, such as inadequate ventilation or plumbing leaks.
Professionals specializing in this field offer services such as inspection, testing, removal, containment/encapsulation (sealing off affected areas), air filtration systems installation, dehumidification/drying out wet materials, repair/replacement work if necessary (e.g., drywall replacement), post-remediation verification tests (to ensure complete removal) and long-term prevention strategies such as installing exhaust fans or sump pumps where appropriate.
FAQs
Can I use Kilz over mold?
No, Kilz is not a suitable product for mold remediation. It can seal off the affected area and prevent further growth of mold spores, but it cannot kill existing mold or remove it from surfaces. Professional water damage restoration and mold remediation contractors are trained to properly assess the extent of the damage, recommend appropriate treatments, and carry out necessary repairs. They will use specialized products designed specifically to remove black mold from walls and other surfaces safely and effectively.
What do professionals use to kill mold?
Mold remediation professionals typically use chemical and physical methods to kill mold. Chemical methods involve the application of EPA-registered antimicrobial products that are designed specifically for killing mold. Physical methods include scrubbing, sanding, or vacuuming with HEPA filters to remove visible mold growth from surfaces.
In some cases, high-pressure water blasting may also effectively remove mold colonies from hard surfaces such as concrete walls and floors. All areas affected by the presence of mold should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before any repairs can begin to prevent further contamination.
Is it OK to paint over mold?
No, it is not okay to paint over mold. Mold can cause serious health issues and should be removed before painting. Paint will not stop the growth of mold and, in some cases, may even make the problem worse by trapping moisture behind the painted surface.
Professional water damage restoration and mold remediation contractors have specialized equipment and techniques to remove mold from a home or building safely.
Does mold-killing primer work?
Yes, the mold-killing primer does work, but Kilz Mold & Mildew is not a mold-killing primer. It is a type of paint that contains biocides that are designed to prevent the growth of mold spores on surfaces. The primer forms an impenetrable barrier between the surface and the environment, preventing moisture from entering and providing an inhospitable environment for mold growth.
Some primers contain fungicides, which can help further reduce any existing or potential future fungal infestations. It can effectively control indoor mold levels with other remediation techniques, such as dehumidification and air filtration. Zinsser makes Mold Killing Primer that kills live mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria.
How do you use Kilz paint for mold?
Kilz paint is a great option for treating mold in your home. It can seal off areas affected by mold, preventing it from spreading further.
To use Kilz paint for mold remediation, start by cleaning the area with an appropriate cleaner and allowing it to dry completely.
Next, apply a coat of Kilz primer over the entire surface and allow it to dry before applying two coats of regular latex or oil-based paint over the top. This will help create a barrier between the existing mold and any new growth while protecting against future moisture damage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Kilz is a great product to use for mold prevention. It helps prevent mold, but it's important to remember that professional services may be necessary to remove mold growth and prevent future outbreaks.
If you have questions about whether Kilz can help with your water damage restoration and mold remediation needs, please contact a professional contractor specializing in these services. Remember: when tackling the issue of “does kilz kill mold”, always trust an expert!
