Spray paint is unbeatable compared to any other paint when it comes to coloring anything around us. As we are blessed with such amazing paint for coloring wood, paper, PCV board, etc., with spray paint, why not try on metal when the best spray paint for metal is within reach of our hand!
Being at home or working on personal DIY projects, painting metal objects with a normal paintbrush can create a whole lot of mess. Also, the finished result can be a disaster. Hence, the best way to paint metal is to pick the right metal spray paint. Though there are many spray paint brands, not all of them are suitable as metal paint.
Therefore, to pick the best metal spray paint, you need to look at specific criteria and the finishing quality of the paint on metal surfaces. Certainly, it’s not an easy job, and on top, it’s time-consuming as well. However, to make your life easy in searching for the most durable spray paint for steel, aluminum, or metal, I have picked the best quality paints to review.
Not only that, but in this article, I will also reveal the method I have used to find those spray paints and share some tips on how to dry the paint and keep your newly painted metal from rubbing or chipping off.
So, don’t miss the details to find your ideal toughest spray paint for metallic objects.
Contents
Top 3 Spray Paint for Metal in 2022
In a hurry? These 3 are the Best Spray Paint for Metal in 2022:
What Is a Metal Spray Paint, and Why Do You Need It?
All spray paints may not work on metal. To paint your metallic surface with vibrant and shiny colors, you need the right paint made for metallic objects. Hence, first, you need to know what metal spray paint is.
Some certain aspects and ingredients make spray paint suitable for metal. The paint needs to be long-lasting, smooth, and free from rubbing or chipping off. Also, the color needs to be able to perform well in temperature rise and fall. Then, the type of paint you choose for metal is also important.
Usually, enamel paints are great for metal surfaces. They are durable, smooth, and ensure a shiny metallic finish. Besides, there are some paints that give a metallic finish. Those are also good as metal spray paint. Now that you know a bit about metal spray paint let me enlighten you on why you need it.
Well, undoubtedly, you need spray paint because it’s easy to use and rightly available. Besides, they take less time to dry, and the right type of metal paint can give you the desired professional finish. So, to give your metal objects a color with a professional finish without getting help from a professional, you must go for the metal spray paint.
Best Spray Paint for Metal Comparison
| Image | Name | Summary | Our Rating | Get It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Rust-Oleum 267116 Painter's Touch Ultra Cover | Fast Drying. Ultimate Coverage. Smooth, durable finish. Variety of colors and finishes. For both interior and exterior use. | Check Price | |
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Krylon K05160202 ColorMaster Paint + Primer | Versatile. Fast-drying. UV resistant. Vibrant colors. Industrial design. Both paint and primer. Wide range of finishes. | Check Price | |
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Rustoleum 249132 Universal Metallic 11 oz Spray Paint | Chip, UV, and fade resistant. Great for both indoor and outdoor use. Available in a variety of colors and finishes. | Check Price | |
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Dupli-Color DE1601 Ceramic Ford Blue Engine Paint | It is heat resistant. The price is affordable. The paint color is very nice. It won’t peel off easily after years. | Check Price | |
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Rust-Oleum 7251830-6PK Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint | UV resistant. It’s rustproof. Good coverage. It sprays smoothly. Creates a rich and uniform layer. | Check Price |
5 Best Spray Paint for Metal of 2022
As I promised, I would introduce you to the best quality paints in this article; in this section, I am going to review some high-quality and popular spray paint for metal. You can keep faith in me as I have deep researched metal spray paint, and then I have chosen these products to suggest. However, let’s not waste time and jump on the review section!
1. Rust-Oleum 267116 Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover
For the very first product, I would like to suggest to you the Rust-Oleum 267116, a good spray paint you will be agreed with me reading the full review. The spray paint is from Rust-Oleum, a well-known brand for manufacturing various types of paint materials. Let’s discuss this product’s features!
The most important feature of this product is you can not only apply it on meta, but you can also apply it on the interior and exterior surfaces like wood, plastic, plaster, masonry, and unglazed ceramic. It comes with Oil-based formula that ensures low odor. Also, it can resist chips and provides long-lasting protection.
With this can, you will able to color up to 12 sq ft. Moreover, the paint dries in only 20 minutes. It has a durable formula that provides excellent hide and goes on smoothly. Its gloss finish provides a fresh and new look for the surfaces mentioned above.
If you have any running craft projects and need spray paint, this 2X Ultra cover is ready to add the perfect color. It is also great to use on any furniture, home decor, and more.
Though the manufacturer includes a user manual for you to know what to do before use, I am adding some tips to use this spray paint in this article for your help.
At first, you have to shake the can for one minute; after mixing; the ball starts to rattle. Please remember, you have to continue to shake the can often during use. Then hold the can 10 to 16 inches up from the surface. Now spray back and forth; you have to overlap each stroke slightly. You have to apply at least two light coats a few minutes apart to get the best result. You have done the job!
It is any angle spray that makes an application in hard-to-reach areas a breeze. And its comfort tip and wide finger pad make it easier to spray without finger fatigue. So, considering its outstanding features, you definitely can have a try at this Rust-Oleum 267116 Painter’s Touch Ultra Cover spray paint!
- Fast Drying
- Ultimate Coverage
- Smooth, durable finish
- Variety of colors and finishes
- For both interior and exterior use
- Any-angle spray with comfort spray tip
- The nozzle can cause a mess
2. Krylon K05160202 ColorMaster Paint + Primer
Are you searching for the best enamel paint for metal? You may be thinking of both durable metal spray paint and a reliable manufacturer. The combination is here! Krylon K05160202 is one of the most durable spray paint for metal that comes from Krylon, a reliable name in the field of metal spray paint.
We are discussing the features of this product. First of all, it is a multi-purpose paint, which is not only excellent to use on metal but also perfect for applying on plastic, wood, and many more. If you deal with both indoor and outdoor projects, this Krylon ColorMaster Paint will be a total solution for you.
Are you wondering about the drying time? Well, similar to the Rust-Oleum 267116, this spray paint is also a fast-drying paint. Once you apply it, you have to wait for 10 minutes or less to dry. Also, this spray paint comes with a durable cover max technology for premium coverage and brilliant color.
The manufacturer includes an EZ Touch 360 Dial tip for precise application and control overspray. Moreover, the metal paint provides excellent weatherability and a brilliant smooth finish to any metal surface. So, what’s more? Let’s grab the Krylon K05160202 ColorMaster Paint + Primer and start the project!
- Versatile
- Fast drying
- UV resistant
- Vibrant colors
- Affordable price
- Industrial design
- Both paint and primer
- Wide range of finishes
- Requires multiple coats
3. Rustoleum 249132 Universal Metallic 11 oz Spray Paint
For the third best paint for steel, I would like to suggest you the Rustoleum 249132. A versatile metal paint from Rust-Oleum. Like our first pick from Rust-Oleum, this metal paint is also great for wood, glass, concrete, wicker, aluminum, plastic, fiberglass, and many more besides metal. So, you will get a universal paint and primer in one. Let’s discuss its other features!
The first thing about this product I want to emphasize is its durability. Rustoleum 249132 provides an aged copper finish, ultimate and long-lasting protection, and durability. The spray paint also features an advanced spray system that allows you to spray the paint at any angle. Moreover, it will help you correctly to paint upside down for hard-to-reach places.
The can comes with a unique two-finger comfort grip trigger with a drip guard that eliminates finger fatigue that helps you to improve control. You can apply this paint both in interior and exterior projects. It will ensure a fashionable, in-depth, luxurious, shimmery metallic look to your interior and exterior projects, which you will love for sure.
Another eye-catching feature of this paint is it comes with an oil-based formula that protects surfaces from rust and corrosion. The design of the can is also unique to any other spray paints, and the design makes it handy too. You will surely love the can as it ensures maximum adhesion for demanding substrates.
- Rust protective
- Chip, UV, and fade resistant
- Superior coverage and durability
- Great for both indoor and outdoor use
- Available in a variety of colors and finishes
- The nozzle needs a slight step up on quality
4. Dupli-Color DE1601 Ceramic Ford Blue Engine Paint
If you are fond of old and experienced bran’s products, this Dupli-Color DE1601 Ceramic Ford Blue Engine Paint is for you. The spray paint is from Dupli-Color, a famous name to the maximum peoples related to painting works. Dupli-Color has more than 60 years of experience in manufacturing high-quality paints.
The brand has continued the philosophy of its founder of perfection by new product innovations for the car, truck refinishing, and coating markets. However, let’s discuss its features. The spray paint can resist temperatures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. So you may be understanding how durable the paint will be!
Also, Dupli-Color DE1601 comes with a durable ceramic formulation and an EZ touch nozzle. The can is ready to provide you with a superior high gloss finish. Dupli Color engine enamel will not flake, chip, crack or peel when exposed to excess heat or automotive fluids. The resins of this paint ensure protection from the appearance of extreme heat and automotive solutions.
The paint is excellent for under-hood purposes. So, if you are searching for spray paint to use on your loving car to make the color exactly like the previous time, this paint is the best choice. Are you thinking of its drying time? Don’t worry! The metal paint dries in just 30 Minutes. Now, what do you think? Good enough? Let’s test!
- It is heat resistant
- The price is affordable
- The paint color is very nice
- It won’t peel off easily after years
- It does not require sanding or painting
- Not for sale in Catalina Island
5. Rust-Oleum 7251830-6PK Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint
If you have a big project and require a combo pack of the best enamel spray paint for metal, Rust-Oleum 7251830-6PK Stops Rust Metallic Spray Paint is made for you. The paint comes in a handy pack of 6 cans, which are perfect for any professional exterior and interior project. The paint comes with weather and corrosion-resistant coating.
Moreover, the Rust-Oleum 7251830-6PK is not only best for metal but also great for wood, concrete, masonry, and much more. Also, it has an oil-based formula that provides a durable protective coating with excellent rust prevention. Now comes the drying time. Like our other picks, it dries to the touch in 20 minutes. It can cover up to 15 sq. ft.
Besides, the spray paint ensures excellent resistance to abrasion, fading, and chipping. The finish contains actual metallic flakes and provides a brilliant as well as a shiny finish. Also, it features any-angle technology that allows you to spray hard-to-reach areas, even upside down. So, it will be your best friend if you have to paint hard-to-reach places.
The can is equipped with a comfort tip and a wider finger pad to reduce fatigue caused by continuous spraying. So, the painting will be fun with it. Considering all the eye-catching features and nice combination, this Rust Metallic Spray Paint is a good choice. If you like it and want to take with your next project, grab it before it gets sold out!
- Fast drying
- UV resistant
- It’s rustproof
- Good coverage
- It sprays smoothly
- Creates a rich and uniform layer
- A bit pricey
How to use the best paint for metal?
If you know the process of applying paint on metal, then you have the freedom to choose any metal spray paint colors whenever you want. However, you need to be very careful about some matters to do your painting job like a professional. Read through the details below, and don’t miss the tips in between.
Things you will need:
Before you begin the painting job, arrange a few things that you will require. You will need sandpaper, garbage clothes, a putty knife, primer, gloves, masking tape, protective glass, and good-quality metal paint.
Preparing the surface:
First of all, you need to clean the surface of the material you are going to paint. Use a soft clean cloth to remove any sort of dirt or water spot.
If the surface comes rustic, you should use sandpaper to remove the rust. You may also require a chemical to remove extreme rust. Besides, if you want to remove paint from the metal, you should use a putty knife or scrapper and remove it properly.
Priming the surface:
As you are done preparing the metal surface, make sure you are wearing your protecting glass and gloves. Then, go to a well-ventilated area to do the rest of the jobs. Also, using the garbage bags and masking tape, cover the areas where you don’t want your paint to get on.
Then, use the primer and prime the surface before applying the actual paint. You can choose to spray paint primer for metal as well. Prime the entire surface thoroughly and let it dry completely. After getting dry, check out if the coat is even and covers all the space. Again, apply another coat of primer throughout the surface.
Painting the metal:
As you are done priming, it’s time to spray painting metal objects. Whether you choose enamel spray paint or craft paint for metal, pick up any spray paint colors for metal you desire. But, make sure it’s of good quality.
Then, shake the spray bottle well for a good few minutes. Before applying on the actual surface, apply on a scrap metal. Check the spray pattern and color quality. If you are satisfied with the quality and color performance, then apply.
You need to be at least 12 inches away from the surface. This way, you can spray the paint evenly and thoroughly. Follow the sweeping motion from top to bottom when you are applying the paint. Nevertheless, make sure you shake the bottle during usage.
Leave the metal for curing:
One of the concerns regarding spray paint is how to dry spray paint on metal. Well, if the paint coat is thin, it will dry quickly compared to the thick coating. So, start with a thin coat of paint at first. Then, check the overall paint quality and overlap if required. It takes around one hour or so to dry spray paint on metal. If you need to coat another layer, wait for the first coat to dry completely.
What Are the Must-Have Features for Best Spray Paint for Metal?
You cannot pick a random cheap spray paint and consider it to perform as the best way to paint aluminum. No matter which paints you pick, it needs to have some features to justify its quality. Here are some simple features that will help you identify the best metal paint from many.
Color
The first and foremost thing you need to pay attention to is the color. You need to make up your mind about which color you want for your metal surface. Is it gold, bronze, silver, black spray paint for metal or is it simple, clear coat spray paint for metal. The choice is yours. But pay attention to the color performance after getting dried through pictures from the real reviews. Also, think about if you want a shiny finish or matte finish as the color texture.
Ease of application
Though priming the metal surface is one of the steps to follow for painting metal, some colors come with primer included. It’s easy to apply. Don’t worry if the paint doesn’t come with a primer. You can always purchase a suitable primer compatible with the paint and get a desired final finish.
Durability
Durability is one of the crucial features you must pay attention to. Some colors are suitable for indoor metal surfaces, and some are for outdoor use. Meaning, the outdoor colors don’t fade out in exposure to sun and light. Some colors come with a label as they can be used for both the atmosphere. However, if you are looking for outdoor paint, make sure you get rust resistance. This will ensure the longevity of the color in the exposed environment.
What Might Happen If You Don’t Consider the Must-have Features
You must have gone through the key features and realized the importance of each of them right away. See, there are only a few features I have mentioned, and I didn’t talk about the budget. Certainly, the price of paint is a great factor. However, that doesn’t determine the quality and performance of the paint on your targeted metal surface.
This is the most important reason why you must pay attention to the significant features before purchasing metal paint. As you know, well, about the project you are working with or the metal object you want to paint; hence, the paint needs to meet the criteria to bring the best paint finish.
Also, painting metal may sound easy, but it’s actually not. Additionally, it’s a great factor if you are going to use the metal object for indoor purposes or outdoor purposes. Simply for this reason, also you need to think about the features. Otherwise, you can end up purchasing metal paint at a budget-friendly price, but you need to purchase another one in a few months.
Because your paint can chip off, making an uneven finish and giving you trouble to apply. So, to make your life easier and ensure your metal painting job the perfect one in one go, it’s an obligatory job to pay attention to each feature of the paint.
FAQ
Q) Can you spray paint metal?
Answer: Yes. Spray painting is one of the easiest ways to paint metal surfaces. However, you need to follow the preparation steps before painting.
Q) What spray paint to use on metal?
Answer: There are many spray paints available in the market that you can use on metal. It’s difficult to suggest one. Considering the popularity and performance, you can rely on Krylon spray paint for metal base DIY projects.
Q) Can you use acrylic paint on metal?
Answer: Acrylic paints are one of the multi-purpose paints you can apply on a variety of surfaces. They are long-lasting and don’t change color when exposed to light. To ensure the longevity of the color, I recommend using an oil-based primer for actual color performance and durability.
Q) What kind of paint to use on metal?
Answer: There are oil-based or water-based paints available in the market. No matter which paints you choose, make sure it’s made for metal. Water-based paints are easy to use. However, if you pick oil-based paint, be sure to use the right paintbrush and give it enough time to cure after painting.
Q) How to keep spray paint from rubbing off?
Answer: If the paint coat is too thick or the surface was not clean properly, then there is a chance of experience paint rubbing off from metal. In this case, be sure to clean the surface with sandpaper or scraper beforehand.
Clean the debris with a brush or clean cloth. Make sure you paint with a thin coat first and let it cure properly before applying another coat. If the coat is too thick, it takes longer to dry and eventually ends up rubbing off.
Q) How to keep spray paint from chipping off metal?
Answer: If you notice the paint is chipping off from metal during painting, stop the paint job on that area. Use sandpaper to remove the chipping completely. This will make the surface smooth and remove the debris with a brush. Now, you can repaint the area.
Final Verdict
We are at the end of the article! I tried to suggest to you the best spray paint for metal from our personal experience and days of research. All the tips included in the article are must-knowing tips before you purchase metal paint or going to painting metal.
I hope all of the product reviews and tips were helpful for you enough. Still, if you need to know anything more about spray paint for metal or anything related to metal painting, don’t hesitate to share them in the comment box. I love to hear from you!
