Products labeled xylene replacement or xylene substitute are not the same as true xylene — and that distinction matters when working with KBS coatings. Here is what sets them apart and what you should use instead.
❌ Do Not Use Xylene Replacement with KBS Coatings Any product labeled xylene replacement or xylene substitute is a different raw material and should never be used with KBS coatings. It can interfere with flow, cure, and adhesion. |
ℹ️ Why They Are Not Interchangeable Xylene (xylol) is a specific aromatic hydrocarbon solvent with a well-defined evaporation rate and solvency level. KBS coatings are formulated around its chemical behavior. Xylene replacement is formulated to reduce VOC emissions. It may look similar on a shelf, but it does not interact with coating chemistry the same way — and using it can compromise your results. |
✅ Approved Thinners for KBS Coatings 1st Choice — KBS #1 Thinner: Our recommended thinner, formulated specifically for use with KBS coatings. Alternative — True Xylene (Xylol): Acceptable where product directions specify it. Make sure the label says xylene or xylol — not "xylene replacement" or "xylene substitute." |
Need an approved thinner for your KBS project? KBS #1 Thinner is formulated to work correctly with our coatings — no guesswork required. |