TOP 16 best paints for metal -

There are a wide variety of paints on sale; it is important to choose the right composition so that there are no problems. The article presents the best existing types of paintwork for metal, manufacturers and the use of paints in specific operating conditions.

To choose the highest quality and most effective product, you should pay attention to the offers of formulation manufacturers and the range of the most common paints. The products of these brands meet quality standards in terms of their characteristics.

Rating of the best paints for metal 2021-2022

Table of contents:

• Rating of the best paints for metal 2021-2022
• How to choose paint for metal?
• The best metal paints by price/quality for 2021-2022
• 1. Hammerite for metal surfaces smooth glossy
• 2. Acrylic paint DALI rubber
• 3. Acrylic paint Super Decor
• 4. Rubber paint VD-AK-103
• The best metal paints for exterior use
• 1. Tikkurila Metallista
• 2. Hammerite for metal surfaces with hammer effect
• 3. Paint MAXIMA Rubber
• The best metal paints for interior work
• 1. Acrylic paint DALI little greene
• 2. Absolute Matt EmulsionV33
• 3. Renovation Perfection
• The best paints for rust
• 1. Tikkurila Metallista hammer
• 2. Elcon Smith with hammer effect
• 3. Flugger Flutex 2S
• The best inexpensive paints for metal
• 1. PANZER for metal hammer
• 2. Lakra MA-15
• 3. Novbytkhim BT-177
• Which company should you choose?
• Customer Reviews
• Useful video

Comparison table of properties

When trying to choose the best paint for metal, you need to pay attention to a number of key characteristics and compare them with the intended operating conditions.

How to choose paint for metal?

When choosing a composition, you need to pay attention to its type, characteristics and purpose. There is a large selection of paint colors on sale in 2021-2022, and it is also possible to get your own color. To do this, you need to introduce the desired color into the white paint and do an experiment with coloring. The desired shade can be achieved by applying layer after layer.

When buying paint for metal, you also need to pay attention to important characteristics that have a great influence on the process of applying paint and the further operation of the structure. Below are the main parameters that you need to pay attention to when choosing paint for metal structures:

• Application temperature. In order for the enamel to lay easily on the metal and be evenly distributed, the correct ambient temperature is necessary. For some paints this is +10, while for others it is +1, which increases the possibilities for use for outdoor work in the cold season.
• Operating temperature. After application, the paintwork maintains its color without yellowing up to a specific temperature. For alkyd paints, the operating temperature is 80 ºС, for acrylic paints 120 ºС, and for polyurethane paints up to 150 ºС. Breeding. To prepare for applying water-soluble paints, you need water. They also do not emit an unpleasant odor. Dilution with a solvent increases the cost of painting per square meter and makes them more harmful during the painting stage.
• Surface requirement. Some types of paints are applied only to a surface that has been cleaned and free of grease, while others are allowed to be painted even over a rusty surface. This is achieved thanks to special substances in the composition that transform existing corrosion and stop it.
• Drying time. This indicator ranges from 5 to 12 hours and affects the duration of the work and the commissioning of the structure.
• Application option. Some enamels are suitable for a brush, which is convenient in the case of a small area to be painted and a complex design. Other paints require application with a roller or sprayer, and this increases the speed of the procedure and is convenient for large and even products.
• Covering power. Costs depend on paint consumption. The figure can be from 7 to 13 m² per liter.
• Gloss level. It is also necessary to pay attention to the degree of gloss, where there are matte, semi-matte, glossy, semi-gloss types. All this affects the appearance of the painted products.

Special preparation of metal products before painting

Initially, primary processing of metal surfaces is carried out, and only then paint and varnish material is applied. If forged products have been under the direct influence of environmental factors for a long time, then due attention will have to be paid to their pre-treatment. Thus, it will be necessary to remove the paint that has already peeled off, as well as get rid of the loose layer of rust. All this can be done with coarse sandpaper, a wire brush or a sander. In cases where there are quite a lot of metal products or elements, a sandblasting machine is used.

The best metal paints for interior work

The following products are designed for indoor use and are the best for 2021-2022.

Acrylic paint DALI little greene

High-quality water-based final matte paint designed for painting walls, odorless, water-based, guaranteeing good adhesion to old alkyd layers. Good water resistance and excellent adhesive properties make this product excellent for painting kitchens, bathrooms and other high traffic areas.

It is used for both internal and external painting of products. The paint is applied in 2 layers with a 4 hour break for drying. For painting use: brush, roller or spray. The fast-drying paint is of good quality.

Characteristics:

• color: WHITENING;
• gloss level: 3%;
• type of paint: quick-drying;
• consumption: 14 l/m2;
• capacity: 0.06 l;
• country of origin: Great Britain.

pros

good quality;

dries quickly.

Minuses

not detected.

Absolute Matt EmulsionV33

Water-based matte paint with excellent hiding power and a slight odor. Has an elegant matte effect that creates a deeper color. Painted surfaces can be dry cleaned. It is an excellent solution for treating low-traffic areas such as living rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, and also for offices.

Designed for painting ceilings and walls in an apartment. For application on metal surfaces: previously unpainted surfaces that are heavily damaged by corrosion must first be cleaned of rust, or primed, and then painted. Paint in 2 layers with a 4 hour break.

It is recommended to store the paint in a dry, cool place, protected from the sun and sources of ignition for 2 years.

Characteristics:

• purpose: for walls and ceilings;
• gloss 3%;
• base: acrylic;
• degree: matte;
• coverage: 14 m²/l;
• consumption 14 m2/l;
• packaging: 1 l, 2.5 l, 5 l, 10 l.

pros

environmentally friendly paint;

quick-drying;

non-toxic.

Minuses

not identified.

Renovation Perfection

Paint for walls and furniture is produced for painting surfaces that are exposed to heavy loads. Due to the unique combination of polymers and additives, the composition is resistant to stains and dirt during use. It is applied to new and previously painted wood, melamine and laminated furniture, wall tiles, plastic products and metal (also aluminum).

Forms an even layer after painting. The product is environmentally friendly and non-toxic due to its low VOC concentration (less than 4 g/l) and water base. The paint has no similar models on the paint and varnish market.

Characteristics:

• type: semi-matte;
• base: water;
• consumption: 13 m 2 /1 l;
• re-staining: after 6 hours;
• complete drying: after 24 hours;
• capacity: 750 g;
• tools: brush/roller;
• cleaning method: water.

pros

high quality paint;

even coat of paint.

Minuses

not identified.

Types of primers

1. Slowing down the process of rust formation.
2. Protective, based on phosphoric acid. A film is formed for a long service life.
3. Phosphating compounds work well with non-ferrous metals.
4. Insulating compounds form a durable film on the metal. Made from alkyd or epoxy material.

The technology for priming a metal surface is described on the product packaging.

When painting metals, special attention should be paid to safety precautions. Most compounds are toxic, so you need to wear respirators, goggles and gloves when painting.

Heaters and open flame sources should not be located near the surface to be painted.

The best paints for rust

Below are the best rust paints that are suitable for painting not only clean areas, but also areas that are exposed to oxidation.

Tikkurila Metallista hammer

The paint is applied directly to the rusty surface, designed for interior and exterior work. The special weather-resistant paint contains a combination of rust converter properties, an anti-corrosion primer and a decorative final coat.

Helps quickly paint metal surfaces without thoroughly removing rust and additional priming. The paint contains wax, which forms a barrier and prevents moisture from entering the metal surface.

The anti-corrosion composition reacts with rust and does not allow it to penetrate further, perfectly protecting the metal surface for up to 12 years. For painting surfaces made of cast iron and steel with rust spots, exposed to atmospheric conditions (metal structures, garden furniture, garages, fences, gratings), also indoors.

Characteristics:

• color: silver;
• gloss: glossy finish;
• application: for rust;
• consumption 10-13 m²/l.
• Drying time: 10 hours;
• weight: 0.9 kg;
• manufacturer: Russia.

pros

functional;

Lays down evenly and leaves no streaks.

Minuses

none.

Elcon Smith hammer action

This type of paint is used for painting metal surfaces indoors and outdoors for a long period. The paint can be applied to the corroded surface immediately after the rust has been treated.

The components of the paint transform rust into a durable protective coating, eliminate signs of corrosion in the future and form a high-quality weather-resistant layer on the metal surface. Apply paint in 2 layers with a thickness of 100-150 microns. Complete drying takes place in 3 days at a temperature of 20°C. Elcon R, xylene, and toluene are used as solvents.

Characteristics:

• appearance: semi-gloss;
• operating temperature range: from −60°С to +150°С;
• consumption for application with a thickness of 50 microns is 130-150 g/m2.

pros

does not require additional primer;

can be kept at sub-zero temperatures;

Minuses

not identified.

Flugger Flutex 2S

This acrylic paint is intended for ceilings inside houses, if it is necessary to obtain a flat, smooth surface. The paint base is latex and PVA. Used for painting indoor ceilings. Matte latex paint has excellent covering power. Environmentally friendly, it guarantees an elegant, uniform, and non-reflective finish.

Suitable for large areas with good lighting. Compared to similar models, this paint is of better quality for spot repairs and coating restoration. With its help you can hide minor irregularities and defects in the preparation of the base. The paint is applied to the surface in 2 layers with a break of 4 hours.

Before application, dilute with water. The paint is stored in a dry, ventilated area. Freezing is not allowed.

Characteristics:

• consumption: 8-9 m²/l;
• application: brush/roller/spray gun;
• highest relative humidity: 80%;
• lowest drying temperature: +5°C;
• complete drying: 1 month at temp. 20 °C, relative humidity 60%.

pros

elegant, uniform coverage;

non-reflective property;

easy to apply, tint and repaint.

Minuses

not identified.

The most popular manufacturers

According to the specialized magazine Coatings World, the key players in the coatings market are:

• Tikkurila (Finland) is a manufacturer whose main advantage is the stability and safety of its compositions;
• AkzoNobel (Netherlands) is the world's largest supplier of paints and varnishes, owner of the Hammerite brand, the first paint that can fight rust;
• The Sherwin-Williams (USA) is a transnational corporation with a 150-year history that produces paints in accordance with American environmental standards;
• Dufa (Germany) is a brand under which the largest range of paint and varnish products is produced.

The original products of these companies are of high quality, safety and effectiveness.

The best inexpensive paints for metal

Below are cheap paints for applying to metal surfaces.

PANZER for metal hammer

This one-component protective and decorative paint has excellent adhesion to surfaces susceptible to rust, and also has remarkable physical and mechanical properties: resistance to impacts, washout, and precipitation. The PanzarStahl (armor protection) system guarantees a smooth, elegant coating of metal surfaces for up to 5 years.

Due to the excellent combination of components and special additives, the paint is easy to apply and forms a beautiful glossy coating, which protects the metal surface from corrosion. It is used for protective and decorative painting of structures made of metal, reinforced concrete, concrete indoors and outdoors.

Paint can be applied to surfaces damaged by corrosion, having previously treated them from rust. When painting zinc metal structures, preliminary priming is necessary. The paint is applied to the surface in 2 layers with a 2-hour break for drying. The duration of complete drying of the paint is 6 hours.

Characteristics:

• capacity: 750 g;
• purpose: wear protection;
• paint base: alkyd;
• Green colour;
• application: brush/roller;
• does not contain lead compounds;
• country of origin: Serbia.

pros

excellent quality;

easy application.

Minuses

has a specific smell.

Lakra MA-15

High-quality, ready-to-use oil paint based on linseed oil. Designed for painting metal and wood surfaces exposed to precipitation, as well as for interior decorative work except for painting floors. To clean surfaces from rust and scale, you need to remove grease with a solvent and coat with an alkyd primer.

White spirit is used as a solvent. Before application, the paint must be thoroughly mixed until it has a uniform consistency. If necessary, dilute to a viscosity suitable for use with white spirit, solvent or turpentine. Use paint at temperatures above 5 °C. Apply with a brush, roller or spray in 1-2 layers.

The drying time before re-application is 12 hours. The paint is intended for both internal and external work.

Characteristics:

• type of surfaces: metal, wood;
• packaging: 0.9 kg, 1.9 kg, 25 kg;
• Duration of complete drying: 24 hours;
• consumption: 5-10 m2/l;
• color: light green;
• shelf life: 18 months.

pros

good quality;

lies flat;

dries quickly.

Minuses

not identified.

Novbytkhim BT-177

This paint is intended for protecting and painting structures and metal products used in atmospheric conditions. The paint gives the structures an elegant look and guarantees protection of the material from atmospheric conditions. It is applied to dry, clean surfaces with a roller or brush. Has an anti-corrosion effect.

The solvents used are: White spirit, Solvent, Turpentine. Used for both internal and external work. Apply in 2 layers with a drying interval of 2 hours. Final drying time is 16 hours.

Characteristics:

• weight: 0.5 kg;
• color: bronze;
• gloss level: glossy;
• consumption: 110-130 g/m2.

pros

dries quickly;

excellent result.

Minuses

not identified.

Top 9. Optimist F304 for outdoor use

Rating (2021): 4.09

18 reviews from resources were taken into account: Otzovik, Kraski.ru

Excellent weather resistance The paint is designed specifically for roofs, plinths, tiles, and can also be used on used galvanized drainpipes and gutters.

• Characteristics

  Price: 1920 RUR/14 kg

• Country Russia
• Consumption: 200 g/sq. m
• Complete drying time: 12 hours.

Acrylic-latex paint for exterior work can be used on different surfaces, even the most problematic ones - stone, slate, OSB, old galvanization, etc. Supplied in packages convenient in volume for painting small, medium and large areas - 4.5, 7 and 14 kg. They speak positively about the material on construction forums; the advantages include affordable cost and low consumption; the disadvantages include the need for careful preparation of the base. To paint, you need to choose a warm sunny day without wind or rain. A 2-layer application with an intermediate drying time of 1 hour is recommended. The coating is elastic, hides minor defects well, does not fade under the sun and extends the life of the painted metal for a long time, for at least 10 years.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Suitable for metal, concrete, wood
• Non-toxic, fireproof
• Good adhesion
• Available in ready-made colors

• Application temperature +5…35°
• Do not apply if there is a risk of rain

Top 7. MasterGood elastic

Rating (2021): 4.21

5 reviews from resources taken into account: VseInstrumenti

The best price for 1 kg of this paint costs about 340 rubles. It is very difficult to find a cheaper material for painting ferrous and non-ferrous metals with a safe composition and from a reliable manufacturer.

• Characteristics

  Price: 810 rub./2.4 l

• Country Russia
• Consumption: 280 g/sq. m
• Complete drying time: 4 hours.

The most budget-friendly of all paints for metals, MasterGood paint is sold ready-to-use. It can be applied to any surface using any available method. It is based on water, filler, latex, pigment and antiseptic. Compared to other water-based paints, it provides a more durable, elastic and durable coating that hides cracks and other defects, protects against water, steam, and UV rays. But the composition cannot be called wear-resistant; the manufacturer does not recommend applying it to heavily loaded surfaces. If metal or concrete is being painted, they must be primed first, otherwise the consumption will increase significantly, and rust will quickly appear in the old places.

Advantages and disadvantages

• No toxic substances in the composition
• Service life about 5 years
• Resistance to cracking
• The painted surface is washable

• Need base primer

See also:

• 10 best rubber paints

Storage and safety rules

Blacksmith paint is characterized by the presence of organic volatile solvents. Working with it requires compliance with established rules and regulations. When applying the composition, it is recommended to be in the open air or turn on forced ventilation. After complete hardening, the enamel film is fireproof and has no effect on the human body.

After completing the finishing work, if any remaining paint remains, it should be kept in a closed container. Used rags, waste and spoiled materials are disposed of in non-flammable containers in designated areas.

Transportation and storage are possible in a temperature range from +30 to -45 °C, in the absence of direct exposure to sunlight and close proximity of heating devices.

Top 4. Zip-Guard Rust Preventive Metal Finish

Rating (2021): 4.56

Advantageous 3 in 1 composition One paint replaces the primer, intermediate layer and topcoat at the same time, forming a corrosion-resistant layer with a service life of up to 8 years.

• Characteristics

  Price: 1290 rub./0.96 l

• Country: USA
• Consumption: 3.79 l/23 sq. m
• Complete drying time: 7 days

The material can be applied directly to surfaces with rust without prior priming. The scope of application of the paint is very wide: people try to choose it for processing machinery, construction equipment, heating radiators, etc. The unique 3-in-1 composition not only simplifies the technology and saves money on the cost of work, but also provides a coating with special properties: it is durable and elastic at the same time. That is why Zip-Guard Rust Preventive paint is resistant to many chemicals, abrasion and environmental influences, while maintaining high decorative properties. This was confirmed experimentally when samples of painted metal were immersed in the salty waters of the Sea of ​​​​Japan. After 21 days, only Zip-Guard remained intact and protected the surface from corrosion.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Formula with rust converter
• Deep rich colors
• Can be applied directly to rust

• Small selection of colors
• Takes a long time to dry

See also:

• 10 Best Exterior Paints

Top 3. Sherwin-Williams SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex

Rating (2021): 4.65

257 reviews from resources taken into account: consumeraffairs.com

Best hiding power Paints from the progressive SuperPaint line, when applied in a single layer, cover the original color of the surface by 99%, which corresponds to class 1 according to the covering power classification table of DIN EN 13300.

• Characteristics

  Price: 990 rub./0.96 l

• Country: USA
• Consumption: 1 l/8 sq. m
• Complete drying time: 4 hours.

The composition of SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex is such that with one paint you can finish surfaces made of any materials, be it metal, plastic, wood, brick or stone. You can apply it in one layer - it is enough to give the product a perfectly new look. The material is declared to be thixotropic - in the jar it is thick like rich sour cream, but as soon as you stir it harder, the consistency becomes convenient for coloring. The paint applies to metal flawlessly, sets quickly - within an hour the coating dries “touch-free”, and after 4 you can apply the 2nd layer. The result is a strong, easy to clean and very durable film.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Composition 2 in 1 – paint and primer
• Versatility of use
• Excellent camouflage qualities
• Protects against rust, blistering and flaking

• Not suitable for outdoor use

Top 6. KUDO heat-resistant enamel

Rating (2021): 4.35

16 reviews from resources taken into account: Yandex.Market, SamoKraska

High temperature resistance The paint in the can is made on the basis of an organosilicon compound and has received exceptional resistance to high and low temperatures.

• Characteristics

  Price: 210 RUR/520 ml

• Country Russia
• Consumption: 1 can/2 sq. m
• Complete drying time: 2 hours.

The enamel of the Russian manufacturer is used as an anti-corrosion agent for products exposed to strong (up to 800°) heating - automobile parts, pipelines, water heating and boiler equipment. Suitable for metal processing only, no pre-priming required. Spraying is done directly from the can; there is no need to use additional devices. The product is very easy to apply to objects of complex configuration. At the same time, the painting technique requires some skill: too thin a layer forms an uneven coating, excessive thickness leads to the appearance of smudges. Do not paint hot surfaces - the material may ignite.

Advantages and disadvantages

• Tolerates temperature fluctuations
• Does not fade from sunlight
• Provides protection against rust

• Toxicity of fumes when drying
• Risk of fire

See also:

• 10 best alkyd paint companies