Painting a glossy or slick surface: this is how you do it

When we think of painting projects, we spontaneously think of substrates such as wood, brick or plasterboard. But what if you need to paint shiny or slick surfaces like ceramic tiles or glass? In this article, we explain how to tackle such surfaces.

Ceramic tiles, plastic or aluminium window frames, metal cladding, polished concrete, glass ... With slick and shiny substrates—even more so than with other substrates—it is important that the paint adheres well to achieve a durable and clean result. From proper substrate preparation to choosing the right paint and applying it, the following steps will ensure a superior finish.

1. The right products: Zinsser B-I-N® Aqua & Zinsser Allcoat Interior

Zinsser B-I-N® Aqua is an insulating water-based adhesion primer. Not only does it offer unmatched adhesion on glossy and slick surfaces, its insulating formula is ideal for blocking stubborn and permanent stains. Furthermore, its excellent coverage is ideal to cover still visible stains.

For the topcoat, you have a choice of products, such as Allcoat Interior or PermaWhite. With both PermaWhite (Satin or Matt) and Allcoat Interior (Matt), you choose a primer and topcoat in one that offers a mould-resistant, washable and hard-wearing finish. For areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, we recommend PermaWhite.

Zinsser B-I-N Aqua

Go for Zinsser B-I-N® Aqua as adhesive primer. B-I-N® Aqua offers unrivalled adhesion to glossy and slick substrates.

Zinsser PermaWhite en Allcoat Interior

Go for Zinsser PermaWhite or Allcoat Interior Matt for a topcoat that is mould-resistant, washable and abrasion-resistant.

2. Prepare the substrate

Follow these steps to optimally prepare your glossy or slick surface.

Step 1

Clean the substrate

Remove loose material with a stiff brush and sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper if necessary.

Step 2

Remove dust

Make sure the surface is smooth, clean, dry and dust-free. This will improve the adhesion of the primer.

Step 3

Apply B-I-N® Aqua

Apply one coat of Zinsser B-I-N® Aqua. Keep in mind that B-I-N® Aqua can only be applied on a dry substrate (consult the technical data sheet for more information). Then allow the primer to dry for 45 minutes.

3. Painting the substrate

Once the substrate is dry, you can apply a topcoat of Zinsser Allcoat Interior or Zinsser PermaWhite. Follow these steps for optimal results.

Step 1

Paint preparation

Stir the paint thoroughly. This will ensure consistent colour and texture.

Step 2

Apply the first layer

Apply the first layer of Allcoat Interior Matt or PermaWhite using a brush, roller or airless sprayer. Allow this layer to dry for at least two hours. When necessary, apply a second coat. Depending on the paint you chose, it will take five to seven days to cure (Allcoat Interior Matt) or seven to ten (PermaWhite).

Conclusion

To paint glossy and slick surfaces, a primer with exceptional adhesion is crucial. That is why B-I-N® Aqua is perfect! It guarantees the same adhesion as the (classic) shellac-based B-I-N, but its low odour and very low VOC content make it a more environmentally friendly alternative.