Zinsser Peel Stop is more than just a primer – it’s a great equaliser to many problems in the decorating industry.
Whether you’re dealing with flaking interior paint, unstable masonry, or problem surfaces, Peel Stop is usually my go-to solution.
As a frequent user of Peel Stop, I can personally vouch for the umpteen times it’s saved me many hours of prep work.
With that in mind, I’ve decided to write a Zinsser Peel Stop review to show you what it can be effective on as well as pointing out situations in which you might be better off using a different product.
Zinsser Peel Stop Review
What is Zinsser Peel Stop?
So what is Zinsser Peel Stop exactly? Zinsser Peel Stop is an exceptional stabilizing solution that works wonders on a variety of surfaces. Its power lies in its formulation: it’s thin yet effective, providing a clear, flexible, and breathable film that glues down flaky paint, binds unstable surfaces, and even seals filler.
Due to its thin consistency and water-based formulation, it dries quickly – it’s touch-dry within an hour, and ready for a fresh coat of paint in just two hours.
Using Zinsser Peel Stop on Exterior Masonry
Whilst formulated for use on interior and exterior surfaces, Peel Stop really works wonders when it comes to exterior masonry.
Its porous nature allows it to penetrate deep into chalky masonry, providing a firm base for future coats of paint.
If you’re dealing with old, weather-beaten masonry, Peel Stop can glue down the remaining paint after you’ve scraped off the loose flakes. Its water-based formulation is a major plus, offering easy clean-up compared to oil-based stabilizers.
Using Zinsser Peel Stop on Interior Surfaces
For interior surfaces like woodwork, Peel Stop is a solid primer. The thin, quick-drying formula seals surfaces and prepares them perfectly for your top coats.
Whether you’re refurbishing a windowsill, dealing with peeling paint, or priming a room, Peel Stop will give you peace of mind. It binds everything together, resulting in a smoother, more cohesive finish.
A Good Solution to Crazing
Crazing can be a decorator’s worst nightmare, which is why I always keep a tin of Peel Stop handy in my van.
It really does effortlessly seal edges, thus creating a barrier between the problematic substrate and the new layer of paint.
And if you’ve had to contend with cracked or bubbling paint, you’ll appreciate Peel Stop’s ability to solidify and stabilise the surface.
Maximising the Longevity of Zinsser Peel Stop
Peel Stop’s durability is one of its strongest selling points. Once applied, it provides a resilient foundation for your paint, reducing the risk of future peeling or flaking.
However, remember that this product is not a silver bullet; thorough surface preparation and good painting practices are equally important. For instance, don’t apply Peel Stop if rain is forecasted, as this can hamper its effectiveness.
Practical Tips for Applying Zinsser Peel Stop
The application of Peel Stop is a breeze thanks to its thin consistency. You can quickly cover large areas using a 3 or 4-inch brush, such as the Monarch Advanced 3″. With its superior grip and zero bristle loss, this brush is perfect for applying Peel Stop. Remember to give the product at least 2 hours to dry before painting over it.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Zinsser Peel Stop is a game-changer in the decorating world. It’s versatile, effective, and delivers excellent value for money. Whether you’re dealing with peeling paint, unstable masonry, or problematic surfaces, Peel Stop is a reliable companion to have on your decorating journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
After stripping a peeling ceiling, should I use Peel Stop or PVA to prime it?
I would recommend Peel Stop as it will seal the peeling paint edges.
Plaster is an alkaline surface and PVA isn’t alkali-resisting so will come away with time. It’s also a nightmare to paint over, thinned or not.
You also shouldn’t put oil-based paints on bare plaster, again, due to them not being alkali-resisting.
On bare plaster, you should coat it with ARP (alkali-resisting primer) then you can put oil-based paint on to it. If you don’t do that, the oil-based paint doesn’t dry and leads to saponification.
With this in mind, it’s best just to go with Peel Stop.