How To Paint Bitumen And Asphalt

Follow our 3-step guide below on how to paint bitumen and asphalt with Zinsser products to ensure a lasting result.

The Benefits

Asphalt and bitumen are semi-flexible substrates that require the right primer for topcoats to adhere correctly, providing a long-lasting finish for years to come.

Zinsser listens to contactors and develops new products – or adds features to existing products – to meet their changing needs, delivering world class products that meet “real world” challenges, providing tried and tested solutions to painting problems, such as painting bitumen and asphalt.

Step 1. Surface Preparation

Remove anything that could interfere or affect the application and adhesion of materials and Zinsser products, ensuring the. surface is clean and dry. Scrape or brush the surface, using a stiff-bristled brush, to remove loose materials and brush to a sound edge, feathering with a fine-grade abrasive paper.

Prior to painting, the moisture content should not exceed 12%.

Remove all visible signs of organic growth and, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions,  treat the area with Zinsser Mould Killer & Remover, allowing it to dry.

In areas with remaining sound paint, clean the surface down with Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner to remove any contaminants, rinsing thoroughly with clean water to remove all residues, and allow to dry before priming.

Step 2. Priming

Use one full coat of Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 to prime all areas (severe stains may need a further coat, allow 2 hours between these coats) and allow to dry overnight before applying a top coat.

Step 3. Decoration

Once the surface is suitably prepared and primed, decorate interior bitumen and asphalt with two full coats of Zinsser Perma-White Interior in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, allowing adequate drying time between coats. Perma-White has Matt, Satin or Semi-Gloss finishes available in more than 4,000+ colours in RAL, NCS and BS shades.

For exterior projects decorate with two full coats of Zinsser AllCoat Exterior Satin/Gloss in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, with a minimum of 1 hour between coats.

More Information

If you require more advice on painting bitumen and asphalt, give our technical team a call on 0113 2455450 (option 2) or send a message to [email protected].