FAQ’S – PREPARATION & PAINTING
What is my original paint type?
Whether your original paint base is acrylic or oil based, you can follow the preparation details outlined below or in the Axolotl Primer data sheet. Axolotl Paints are new technology and can successfully be bonded onto both paint bases providing they are suitably prepared.
Paint surfaces from before 1970 may contain lead. You should get the advice of a lead paint expert if you have any concerns prior to removing.
Painting onto Plastic or PVC
To ensure adhesion of the paint, and an even finish:
1. Clean any mildew or fungus away by mixing 3 parts water with 1 part bleach. Proper protection should be worn, i.e. safety goggles whilst cleaning the mildew away. Leave mixture on for 20min, then rinse thoroughly.
2. Using a soft bristle brush and detergent scrub off any dirt or residue. Rinse thoroughly.
3. Using fine sandpaper, lightly sand any PVC areas. Wipe away the dust with a damp cloth.
4. Test adhesion – It Is recommended to apply Axolotl Primer to a discreet section of the PVC and allow 7 days curing time before testing the bond with a cross hatch scratch test. You can try a scratch test as early as overnight; if the primer is already adhering then there is no need to wait the full 7 days to continue priming. If the primer does not adhere to the PVC, you should wait for full cure and test again. Re-do steps 1-3 if cross hatch test fails.
Painting onto existing sound gloss paint (Oil or Acrylic based)
All surfaces must be inspected prior to priming, to ensure they are properly adhering, free of oils, grease, loose particles, dirt, mould, algae, moss, or other foreign matter. Gloss areas must be sanded or etched to provide a key. Nail holes, gap sealing and
other filling should be done before application of Axolotl Paints. All loose and flaking material should be thoroughly scraped and sanded and surfaces should be dust free and dry before application of Axolotl Paints.
Gloss areas should be lightly sanded or etched to provide a key. One coat of Axolotl Primer (coloured towards the final paint colour if necessary) applied directly from the tin to a dry, clean surface by brush, roller or spray.
Allow primer a minimum of 48 hours to cure before applying Axolotl Paints.
Painting onto Powdercoat
Clean the powdercoated surface with wax and grease remover, even if new to remove any oils. Rub the powdercoated surface with Scotch brite to create a key. Axolotl primer should then be applied as per label. Axolotl Paints can be applied on top once the primer is cured.
Full cure for paints is generally 7 days but can vary depending on humidity.
Clients can do a scratch test in a less seen area to check primer or paint adherence prior to proceeding with next coats or general use.
Note: Powdercoats in poor condition should be prepared the same as above but client may prefer to use Metal primer in place of standard primer for added protection.
Painting onto powdery surface
Axolotl Clear Primer is a water based primer designed to seal powdery or chalky surfaces such as previously water base painted external surfaces, new and old concrete, compressed fibre cement sheeting, brickwork, hebel and cement render. Axolotl Clear Primer is applied prior to other Axolotl Primers and paints as it will help provide a key on the surface. It is suitable for use under Axolotl Primer and Elastomeric Membrane.
How do I remove paint from my surface?
Once paint has been applied the options to remove it are sanding or using a paint stripper if applicable for substrate. If paint stripper is used, follow paint stripper label instructions, clean thoroughly and scotch brite prior to priming and re-painting.
What is the difference between drying time and curing time?
Often paint tins will list drying time, or time before re-coat in the application instructions as the paint can be re-coated before full cure is achieved on most products.
Even though paint could be dry to touch, the curing time is often longer and can be subject to weather conditions such as humidity. Once paint is cured it will be hardened and have stronger adhesion.
Note: Painting before the prior coats are adequately dry could lead to blistering, wrinkling, lifting, or uneven sheen.
High moisture content readings on the surface I am painting?
The surface you are painting will need to be thoroughly dry prior to painting. If moisture is still trying to come through the surface it may impact the adhesion of the primer and paint and if the paint does adhere it may be a case of blistering as it dries out.
Once the surface is dry water stains may be visible – if this is the case then you will need to use a stain blocker such as a Zinsser product as a primer. This will stop the stain coming through the paint system.
Once the stain blocker treatment has cured, the Axolotl primer and paints can be applied over as normal.
How do I remove mould?
Mould is a fungus, which typically grows in damp and dark spaces that don’t have adequate ventilation such as bathrooms and shady exteriors of the home.
Mould is a health hazard and should be removed as soon as it is discovered. Mould can contribute to respiratory illness, cause skin allergies and headaches.
It is important to treat the mould-affected area as soon as it is discovered, as mould is a health hazard to humans
Due to the health hazards associated with mould, it is always important to ensure that you are wearing the appropriate protective equipment including gloves, eye protection and dust mask.
The effected area should be treated with a mould removing product, be sure to check it is suitable for use on your effected surface prior to application.
To ensure mould doesn’t reoccur you should assess if it is forming from an underlying problem such as a leak, or poor ventilation and take action to correct this for best results.
How do I prevent mould from returning?
After you have successfully removed the mould from the affected areas, ensure you leave the surface to dry completely before applying fresh paint. You will want to ensure the room is well ventilated prior to starting to paint.
Axolotl Primer, Chroma and Metta paints can be mixed with a mould inhibitor additive to discourage fungal growth.
The information above is provided to assist our clients and is based on our experience in the paint industry. For further information, technical assistance or pricing please contact the Axolotl Paint sales team.