5 Best Paints for Metal

Paint for metal is a type of paint specifically formulated to bond with and cover any surface. They come in various forms such as sprays, stains, primers, and specialty paints. This article will focus on the best paint for metals that can be purchased at most hardware stores or online retailers like Amazon.

Benefits of special paints for metal:

• Paints for metal are widely available in different colors;
• Many paints for metal are available in different finishes, including glossy and flat;
• Paints for metal also work well on metals like aluminum siding or steel appliances, but also other surfaces such as wood (fences), glass (mirrors), etc.;
• The best paints for metal are also very easy to apply and clean up, making them a great option compared with other types of paint;

Do you need to know more about the paints for metal? Do you want to find out what the top products are and which ones provide durability? If so, then this article is perfect for you! A few DIY experts got all of your questions answered in complete detail. 

There’s no need to worry about wasting time searching through reviews or scouring websites trying to find an answer that will suit your needs. This guide has everything that one could ask for when it comes to selecting the best paints for metal. 

Rust-Oleum 206999 Marine Topside Paint – the Editor’s choice!

The Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint can be the ideal paint to protect surfaces above the waterline. It resists abrasions, weather, and UV rays while providing an elegant gloss finish. The easy flowability of this paint makes them perfect for brush or spray application on fiberglass, wood, or metal surfaces.

Crafted with an oil-based formula, it offers superior gloss retention and brushability. A marine-grade paint can be great for use on fiberglass, wood, or metal surfaces above the waterline. The oil-based formula also applies easily and has excellent leveling.

Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint offers a durable coating for your boat, roof surfaces, and more. This jar of paint covers up to 100 square feet and can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Enjoy maximum protection from extreme weather conditions as well as long-lasting UV protection!

Individuall Acrylic Paint Set for Canvas Painting – the best for the bright colors!

This beautifully packaged, creative paint set is designed exclusively for artists of all levels. With 8 workhorse acrylic colors that are perfect for any project, this versatile kit has what it takes to bring your ideas to life.

The paint goes on smoothly and dries quickly, creating long-lasting colors that are easy to blend.

Perfect for use by both adults and children alike, this paint set can be used on most surfaces: canvases, metal objects, concrete – even your fingernails!

This acrylic paint set for canvas painting can be ideal for artists at every level of painting, from beginner to expert. Expertly crafted in Germany, these professional paints produce vibrant colors that last long and go on smoothly – just choose among 8 basic colors with a high saturation of pigments.

Rust-Oleum 327907 American Accents Spray Paint – the best for interior use!

This high-quality, professional-grade spray paint will cover up to 12sq.ft for any indoor surface. It’s like painting with magic because it dries to the touch in 20 minutes and provides durability and beautiful color! In addition, you can give your furniture the look of metal without spending all day sanding or stripping it down to bare wood.

This DIY kit is perfect for achieving quick project completion and vivid color. It comes in a protective metal that can prevent rusting, long-lasting protection.

Trust Rust-Oleum 327907 American Accents Spray Paint with virtually any project: wicker chairs, old plastic crates, hard-to-reach places – anything!

This Rust-Oleum American Accents Spray Paint will give any piece of furniture the necessary protection with an any-angle spray comfort tip that reduces finger fatigue and makes it easy to reach hard-to-paint places.

SEYMOUR 620-1415 Industrial MRO High Solids Spray Paint – the best for rust resistance!

Are you tired of stains and rust on your metal roof? Get SEYMOUR 620-1415 Industrial MRO High Solids Spray Paint! This spray paint provides high solids content with a UV-resistant, anti-sag finish. With its 3 to 4 times the coverage of regular aerosol paint, you’ll have a great-looking piece in just one coat! Protect against rust and weather while also protecting from oil, gasoline, and most corrosive chemicals.

No scraping or touch-up is needed. In addition, don’t worry about tons and tons of overspray too because the coating is rub-resistant, UV tolerant, and resists abrasion from windblown dust, water stains, etc.

Seymour 620-1415 Industrial Spray Paint has a rust-resistant, glossy exterior finish that withstands abrasion and heat.

Rust-Oleum 327875-6PK American Accents Spray Paint – the best for the glossy finish!

Paint with Rust-Oleum 327875-6PK American Accents Spray Paint that’s ideal for interior use on most types of surfaces. By using the any-angle spray tip with reduced finger fatigue, you’ll be able to paint quicker and more effectively. With superior durability through smooth, a glossy finish leaves all your surfaces fresh and it achieves full coverage with vivid color.

This spray paint provides an economical way of transforming any surface with long-lasting protection. Just check out the gorgeous gloss that comes after application! With this spray paint, there are no messy brushes or rollercoasters for your hands.

The Rust-Oleum 327875-6PK paint provides long-lasting protection and a polished, high shine for your DIY projects.

The Buyer’s Guide

Main Features:

Rust-Resistance

Some of the most popular paints for metal are acrylic or latex, which make them more susceptible to rust. Since acrylic and water-based paint don’t adhere as well as oil-based ones, they can peel off with a little moisture exposure over time and that creates an opening for corrosion. This is why it’s important to choose a high-quality product when painting on metal that offers superior adhesion and protection from weathering elements like rain and snow.

Water-Resistance

Water resistance as a feature of paints is important to look for. Water can cause rust and corrosion, so it’s essential that you protect the metal from water damage on top of how well paint sticks. You don’t want your home or business siding to become more work than they’re worth over time due to water damage and mold! 

If the paint you choose isn’t resistant to water, it will become damaged and need to be repainted in a few years. The best paints for metal are waterproof so that they can protect your siding from rain damage or other exposure to moisture.

Temperature-Resistance

A temperature-resistance rating of 400 degrees Fahrenheit is usually considered high enough for most metal surfaces. That means that you can allow the paint to cure at room temperature instead of requiring heat or oven baking, which would be time and energy-consuming. But if your surface gets hotter than 400 degrees Fahrenheit on a regular basis, consider using something with a higher resistance such as 500 or 600 degrees.

Water-Based vs. Oil-Based

When it comes to choosing paint for metal, it is important to understand the difference between water-based and oil-based paints. Water-based paints are known as latex while oil-based ones come in two varieties: alkyd and epoxy. These options can be great when painting wood or other porous materials but they don’t work well on metal surfaces because of their inability to stick properly. 

1) Oil-based formulas and alkyd paints

Oil-based and alkyd paints dry slowly. They also require a number of coats to cover the surface properly that can cause an unsightly build-up that will chip easily, exposing the metal underneath.

Oil-based paints are best for indoor metal pieces since they dry quickly and give the most opaque coverage that makes it easy to make repairs years later. They also provide a tough, durable layer that will protect your furniture from chipping or peeling without being too glossy.

Oil paints also tend to be the least expensive option. 

Alkyd paints are more like traditional oil-based stains that you would use on wood but they provide better coverage than water-based options since they dry faster and contain anti-rust agents that protect the metal from moisture damage while providing a durable finish. 

They come in both matte and glossy finishes so it is important to choose one depending on your preference for shine or texture when selecting an alkyd paint. Alkyd paints generally cost more than their counterparts especially if you opt for the professional-grade variety instead of the cans found at home improvement stores.

2) Water-based latex paints

Water-based latex paint is more likely to be used by commercial painters because it dries much faster than oil or alkyd varieties. 

This allows for many layers in less time but requires care when applying since one heavy coat can leave streaks on your project. If you are painting outdoor metal furniture then water-based is definitely your best option as they were made specifically for this purpose. You should test them indoors first though just in case there’s any adverse reaction between the paint and whatever material the chairs are made of. 

When all else fails, latex primer may be worth trying as it can act similarly to alkyd or epoxy paint by creating a smooth, durable base layer. It is also great for covering rust or other surface damage with a bright white finish that will make your metal look new again without any need to strip the old paint away.

Ease of Application

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing paint for metal is the ease of application. In fact, it’s probably one of the biggest deal breakers you could possibly have with your product. 

If an otherwise great paint doesn’t apply well and provides less-than-perfect results, then there are going to be a lot more people walking away from that purchase than if they had found a different option that did what they needed it to right out of the gate.

Brand

A large variety of brands produces paints for metal. Some products have been specifically designed to be used on steel, whereas others can also work with aluminum and other metals as well. In addition, it is important to consider the type of paint you need: one coat or two coats? 

The best paint choice if you want something very durable and easy to use is Rustoleum’s product labeled “Epoxy Enamel”. This particular formula comes in twelve different colors that make it suitable even for those who wish their item has a unique color from the rest! Moreover, this kind of epoxy enamel features an anti-corrosion effect thanks to its application rustproof surfaces. 

Another great option is Tremclad’s paint, which actually contains a special additive formula to improve the resistance against rust. The company guarantees that it will work on any metal surface so you can even use it in your car!

Types of Paint for Metal:

1) Traditional Paint

Traditional paints are the most common type of paint. They range from oil-based to water-based, and they usually have a good performance on metal surfaces especially when applied with an aluminum primer. 

Generally, oil-based paints tend to be more durable and last longer. On the other hand, water-based paints are fast drying while offering a smooth finish even without sanding or priming. Water-based paint is said to reach its full strength in about three weeks after application while it takes months for traditional oil-based paints to attain their maximum hardness level.

2) Spray Paint

Spray paint is not just for metal. You can also use it on wood, concrete, cinder blocks, and more to give them a fresh new look. 

Spray paint, as the name implies, comes in an aerosol can. You press down on a button to release the paint through small holes and it sprays out onto your surface (and sometimes into the air if you’re not paying attention). This makes them easier to use than brushes for those who don’t like getting their hands dirty with paints or other smelly substances that may be involved. 

Plus, they can reach hard-to-reach areas that might otherwise prove difficult without professional equipment. 

3) Touch-Up Paint

Touch-up paint is not the same as a base coat or topcoat. This product works best when you have a minor scratch that does not require full coverage, but just some touch-up. The most important thing to remember about this type of paint for metal is it’s designed specifically to adhere to metals with no primer needed! 

Base coats are made out of acrylic polymers while topcoats are essentially any other kind of paint with resin added in order to create longer-lasting results after drying time. 

There are specific products like Rustoleum Scratch Filler and Glossover which can be used on larger scratches (or even rust spots), and these should definitely be mixed together before use because both components need each other in order to create a smooth, professional finish. Don’t forget to use sandpaper or steel wool in order to rough up the metal before applying either of these paints!

4) Paint Pen

There are also plenty of paint pens that you can use on metal appliances or if your car has a scratch that needs some fixing up before it gets bad enough where you’ll have to take it into an auto body shop for repairs. 

These products are meant specifically for smaller chips/scratches because they are not thick like regular paints but rather create thin layers over whatever surface it is applied onto in order to give similar results as using touch-up paint. If there isn’t much time before applying this product – you don’t want the wait times associated with traditional painting methods then these types will work best for you.

Types of finishes:

1. Anodized coatings – an acid bath leaves behind a layer of aluminum oxide on the surface, creating a nonporous clear film with excellent chemical resistance as well as abrasion and corrosion resistance. It will last for years without showing wear or fading. This type provides significant weathering protection but doesn’t change color or texture much over time so it’s good if you want to keep your finish looking consistent through many seasons;
2. Epoxy paints – these are popular because they’re often used in industrial applications due to their superior durability compared to other options such as urethane enamels. This type of paint will provide a thick, durable layer that provides excellent chemical and corrosion resistance as well as abrasion protection. Unlike anodized coatings, epoxy paints can change the color of your metal surface so it’s not ideal if you want to keep things consistent through seasons or years. However, this is good for surfaces that are going to be frequently exposed to harsh conditions because these paints resist most chemicals including oils and acids even at high temperatures with no compromise in adhesion over time compared to conventional options such as enamels or urethane topcoats;
3. Polyurethanes – these have become increasingly popular due to their versatility. They can create glossy finishes like those achieved on automobiles and motorcycles while still providing high durability. They’re often used for outdoor applications because they can stand up to harsh weather including rain, snow, and saltwater with no problems after curing even if the surface is scratched or marred during installation;
4. Enamels – these traditional paints have been around since the 1800s for good reason. They provide tough surfaces that resist abrasion well while producing consistent finishes over time without needing a primer. However, enamel paint isn’t as durable against chemicals like oils and acids compared to epoxy or polyurethane options so it’s not ideal in areas where spills could happen. It also requires more preparation than other types of topcoats before you apply it due to its quick-drying nature so this adds extra steps requiring more time and money;

What to Look When Choosing the Best Paint for Metal?

When it comes to choosing paints for metal, there are a couple of features that should be taken into account.  For example durability and compatibility with other materials, ease of use, and price. 

Here are some helpful tips when choosing among the best paints for metal:

• Always read the label carefully before making any purchase;
• Ensure that there is enough time available between coats (preferably several hours);
• Never use water-based paints on galvanized metals because they will play against each other causing corrosion; 
• Do not choose oil-based products over lacquers or varnishes because they will last longer;
• Avoid paints that have a strong smell and fumes;
• The paint should be a high-quality one since metal is a hard surface and needs good adhesion between the primer, basecoat, and clear coat;
• It must have a proper shine for giving you that metallic look on your project;
• You’d want to get rid of rust so it should also cover up all rusty areas without any issues or problems whatsoever;
• The paint should be easy to apply, use, and clean up;
• It must have the right metallic color for your project;

Metal Painting Useful Tips:

• If you want a high-quality finish, choose paints with the least amount of metallic particles and those that don’t require mixing;
• The more coats required for coverage, the harder it is to apply (unless your paint comes in spray form);

When choosing between common types of paints designed for metals keep in mind that:

• Paints specifically formulated as metal primers have been created especially for this purpose. These are usually very easy to work with since they contain a little pigment that also makes them cheaper than their full-color counterparts. They come ready to be applied on top of any surface without having first needed another coat of primer underneath them – just like water-based acrylics do;
• Paints labeled “for general use” are a lot more versatile and can be applied over any other paint as well. They don’t require much work, but they aren’t going to give you the same results as those specifically designed for metal;
• Paints labeled “for use on plastic or rubber” provide even less coverage than general-purpose paints due to their lower opacity. These come in spray form which makes them easier to apply from start to finish, although it also means that multiple coats will likely be required – especially if your piece is large and/or shaped like something other than a simple square; 
• Stainless steel primer provides outstanding adhesion because of its superior, long-lasting bonding power. This primer is ideal for rusted metal surfaces and creates a perfect base for your paint to adhere to;
• The best paints for metal are water-based because they don’t go on thick or leave brush strokes as oil-based ones do;

FAQ

What kind of paint do you use for metal?

The best paints for metal are oil-based enamels. Acrylics, lacquers, and latexes do not offer the durability that you would want in a paint job on your material of choice. The simple rule is to use an oil-based product that provides good coverage, durability, and adhesion with just one or two coats. 

Tips for choosing the best paint:

• Using a primer first will result in better paint adhesion, thus improving durability;
• The best paints are oil-based because they have good coverage that you can apply just one or two coats of. If your budget does not allow for an oil enamel, use acrylics instead which work similarly but with less quality control and lower cost;
• Acrylics are versatile too – since they’re water-soluble unlike other kinds of paints, their surface becomes more pliable when wet allowing you to create special effects like rust looks simply by dipping them into buckets of water;
• Using a product that dries quickly will speed up the painting process and save you time. Look for products with high solids content that provides better coverage at a lower cost per gallon due to less material needed in each coat. If using oil enamel, make sure your paint can withstand extreme temperatures without changing its chemical properties or discoloring from exposure to heat (check the label in your paint product);
• When applying the paint, make sure to cover all exposed surfaces of metal with a single coat without leaving bare spots. Using multiple coats results in better coverage and enhanced durability, but it will take more time with less cost per gallon (compared to one or two coats) if you are on a budget;

How do you permanently paint metal?

Paints for metal are usually acrylic, latex, or oil-based. These paints can be used to paint any metal surface including stainless steel and aluminum. With proper application techniques, the painted surfaces will have a long-lasting finish that is resistant to wear, stains, and corrosion from harsh weather conditions such as rain or humidity. 

Many paints also come with a primer included which makes them even more effective at hiding imperfections on old pieces of metal furniture or appliances you want to refinish before painting them.

What is the hardest wearing paint for metal?

Generally, the most durable paint for metal is an industrial-grade product. These paints are usually used on large-scale production lines and can withstand harsh environments such as chemical exposure or extreme heat/ cold temperatures.  Industrial paints are also usually more durable, scratch-resistant, and high quality. These finishes will last for years to come without fading or chipping away.

Industrial paints can be tough to find at your local hardware store, but you should easily find them online or by asking a specialist paint store where they would recommend buying industrial-grade products.

Is oil or acrylic paint better for metal?

Both oil and acrylic paint are good for metal, but they have different properties. Oil paints dry slower than regular acrylics as well as other options on the market such as special varnishes or clear coats that will protect your work from rusting. 

It’s a preference more than anything else since both types of paints can be used over each other to build up layers with increasingly finer detail. So you can use either one depending on what type of look you want to achieve or if there were a specific reason why you would prefer one over the other.

Is it OK to paint over rusted metal?

If you are trying to paint over rusted metal, it is not recommended. Rusted surfaces should be sanded down and treated with a rust converter before attempting any type of painting. Once the surface has been properly prepared, then you can move forward with your project using one of the mentioned top-rated paints for metal.

What paint is best for rusted metal?

For example, the Rustoleum Universal All-Surface Spray Paint is a great paint for rusted metal. The spray can have an even application that covers well with no dripping, leaving the surface looking smooth and uniform. Apply in light coats to ensure maximum coverage of rust spots while avoiding drips or puddling that may lead to uneven surfaces on your project.

Can you use vinegar to clean metal before painting?

Vinegar is acidic, so it can damage the metal if you don’t rinse it off. You should always use soap and water before painting.

How do you seal acrylic paint on metal?

• Acrylic paint is a type of water-soluble, liquid oil paint. With the help of acrylic mediums and varnishes, it can be used on many surfaces including metal. When you have finished painting your piece with acrylic paint, simply apply a layer of matte or gloss spray sealer to finish off your project! A clear coat will prevent any moisture from damaging your design in addition to giving you a nice shine that will make the colors pop; 
• To keep your painted metal from chipping, try painting a layer of acrylic paint mixed with varnish over the top. This will give you a nice and easy seal that is also long-lasting;
• If using oil paints for decorating objects made out of metal, be sure to use an oil paint medium or solvent when mixing the colors. Oil paints are not soluble in water which means they have to be thinned down before applying them onto surfaces like metal;

Is enamel paint good for metal?

Enamel paint is a great choice for metal surfaces. It penetrates the surface easily and provides a smooth, shiny finish that resists wear and tear. Enamels are available in oil-based or water-based formulas at different price points depending on the durability requirements of your project.

What kind of primer should you use on metal?

There are different types of primers, but there is one that works best for metal: a rust-inhibiting primer. This type helps to protect the surface from corrosion and other damage caused by moisture and chemicals. It can also prevent rust because it seals in any existing rust particles on the paintable metal area. Some keywords you should look for when searching for this kind of primer include “rust-inhibitive” or even just “metal primer”. 

Can you use paint thinner to clean metal before painting?

Yes. You can use paint thinner to clean metal before painting, but you should note that it may be more effective on lightly rusted metal and not on heavily corroded metal.

How do you keep paint from chipping on metal?

Exterior paints will not chip on any kind of metal if they’re applied correctly. However, certain techniques can make this happen more quickly. To reduce the likelihood of chips occurring in your freshly applied coats, consider these tips when choosing between exterior oil or latex paints (which work best with metals):

1. Use high-quality exterior paint. Unless you’re looking to spend an arm and a leg, the best exterior paints for metal should be solid across all price points: KILZ and Rustoleum are both great options that offer excellent coverage on outdoor furniture. Brush or roll your coats over lighter colors (including whites) first, then apply darker hues last. Allow each coat 24 hours to dry before applying another one – doing so will prevent any smudging from occurring;
2. Apply multiple thin coats instead of one thick one. This technique works better than simply brushing on several downhill strokes because it prevents air bubbles from forming under your topcoat as well as reduces the likelihood of chipping at the crack two layers;
3. Get rid of any rust first. If you’re painting a metal chair or table that has a few rusty spots, use a wire brush to remove them before applying your paint coats; this will prevent the new paint from peeling off later on;
4. Spray-paint instead of roll or brush. Do not apply exterior paints with an airless sprayer as they’ll almost always leave ugly run marks and other unattractive blemishes behind – even if you move quickly between passes! Instead, opt for standard spray painters that hold cans at various angles in order to minimize messes while also maximizing coverage;

Useful Video: TOP 10 BEST ACRYLIC PAINT SET Amazon 2020

Final thoughts 

Hopefully, this article has helped you find the perfect paint for metal. These products are durable, easy to use, and will give your project a flawless finish in no time!