Zinsser Cover Stain - Solvent-Based Primer Sealer and Stain Killer

Zinsser Cover Stain® is a fast-drying, solvent-based primer, sealer and stain blocker trusted by professionals across the UK. It delivers outstanding adhesion, coverage and stain-blocking on both interior and exterior surfaces.

Formulated to tackle severe smoke, nicotine, water, mould and fire damage, Cover Stain® permanently blocks stains and odours. It’s perfect for renovation jobs and repair work where discolouration, tannin bleed or water stains are an issue.

It adheres without sanding, even to glossy surfaces, and dries in just 30 minutes. Cover Stain® primes and seals most substrates in one coat, making it the go-to solution for decorators, landlords and tradespeople who want a quick turnaround without compromising on performance.

🔍 Why Choose Zinsser Cover Stain®?

• Exceptional stain blocking – water, smoke, soot, nicotine, mould and more

• Solvent-based formula – perfect for serious interior and exterior jobs

• Adheres to glossy and problem surfaces without sanding

• Seals redwood and cedar bleed

• Touch dry in 30 minutes – recoatable in 2 hours

• Ideal for ceilings, walls, trims, doors, exteriors, masonry, furniture and more

• Also available in aerosol format

• Can be tinted to pastel and mid-tones using solvent-based tinters

Surface Preparation

Before applying Cover Stain®, ensure all surfaces are clean, dry and sound.

General prep for all surfaces:

• Remove loose or peeling paint, rust, dust, dirt, grease, wax or other surface contaminants

• Use a suitable degreaser or sugar soap where necessary

• Remove any mildew, mould or algae with a fungicidal wash and allow to dry completely

• Lightly sand glossy surfaces to improve adhesion (not always required)

• Fill cracks or holes with a suitable filler and allow to dry

Specific substrate notes:

• Wood: Remove any resin or sap; sand rough edges; ensure bare wood is dry

• Metal: Remove rust or oxidation; apply direct to ferrous/non-ferrous metals if clean and dry

• Masonry/Plaster: Remove all dust and chalky residues; ensure surface is fully dry and cured

• Previously painted surfaces: Can be applied without sanding if the surface is sound

Technical Data

• Finish: Flat / Low sheen (12–13% @ 60°)

• Base Type: Modified alkyd resin (solvent-based)

• Application Temperature: 5°C to 32°C

• Touch Dry: 30 minutes

• Recoatable: 2 hours

• Full Cure: 4–7 days

• Coverage: 9.8m² per litre (may vary with substrate)

• Solids by Volume: 56.3%

• Viscosity: 92–98 KU

• VOC Content: 335 g/L

• Thinning: Not normally required; thin with white spirit for spray if needed

• Clean Up: White spirit or mineral spirits

• Adhesion: Excellent adhesion to glossy, difficult surfaces without sanding

• Flame Spread / Smoke Development: 0 / 5 (ASTM E84 Class A)

• Storage: Store indoors between 4°C and 27°C

• Shelf Life: 5 years unopened at 24°C

Data Sheets

Zinsser Cover Stain - TDS

Zinsser Cover Stain - MSDS