Types of paints for metal: comparison and which is better

Selecting the appropriate paint for metal surfaces can significantly impact the attainment of a long-lasting and visually appealing coating. Given the variety of paint types available, it’s critical to comprehend how each differs and how it can be used to suit your particular requirements. Different paints offer different benefits, such as rust prevention and ease of application, that can affect the longevity and appearance of your metal projects.

This guide will compare the qualities, benefits, and possible drawbacks of the different paint types that are appropriate for metal surfaces. You can decide which kind of paint is best for your project by looking at options like enamel, acrylic, and oil-based paints. Making the right choice for your needs will be made easier if you are aware of your options, whether you want to protect newly constructed metal structures or update an outdated metal fence.

By being aware of these paint kinds and how to use them, you can make sure that your metal surfaces not only look fantastic but also endure the elements and the test of time. Let’s get into the finer points and see which paint choice will work best for your metal projects.

Nitro paint

Although most people know nitro paint as spray paint, its marking name is NC. If you need to paint a small item and don’t want to purchase and dilute an entire can, this is a great alternative. Furthermore, because spray paint is applied by spraying, the surface is free of brush or roller streaks.

Any brand of chemical solvent can be used to dilute the paint, and the stronger the number in the paint’s name, the more glossy the painted surface will be.

You can apply nitro paint using any available tool, such as a pneumatic spray gun or a basic brush. The roller’s foam rubber coatings, which nitro paint quickly corrodes, are the only drawback.

Of course, it is not practical to use such paint when working with large volumes, and there are more drawbacks to this material than benefits.

Disadvantages

• Low adhesion to the surface, as a result, the paint becomes unusable after a few years.
• A very unpleasant and toxic smell, which is quite capable of causing harm to health.
• Low resistance to ultraviolet rays. Simply put, the paint fades quite quickly in the sun.
• High consumption per square meter of area.
• Does not interact with other types of paint and dissolves them.

Pros

• Relatively low price, especially if you buy paint not in aerosol cans, but in standard cans.
• Quick drying. You can work with nitro paint even at sub-zero temperatures, and the complete drying time will be only a couple of hours. And in the warm season, complete drying of one layer takes several minutes.
• Ease of application by any method.
• If necessary, nitro paint can be easily removed with a regular solvent.

Crucial! Working with nitro paints indoors is strictly prohibited. Chemical solvents have a strong, toxic odor that is extremely bad for your health.

PF

This was the most widely used paint brand about thirty years ago; it was used for almost everything. Since it works on any surface and doesn’t interfere with most primers or paints because of its base, it can’t really be referred to as a paint for metal.

White Spirit or another solvent is used to dilute the paint (see. The best way to dilute PF 115 paint is with regular gasoline; however, the coating will not get glossy or shiney from this method.

In any case, the reason PF paints were so widely used in the past was not because they were of very high quality, but rather because there was no other option. To be precise, there are several drawbacks to this material that you should be aware of before selecting PF brand paint for your project.

Disadvantages

• It takes a long time to dry. Complete drying of each layer can take up to a day, and this is at room temperature, but if you work in the cold, the paint may not dry at all.
• You need to work with PF paint only on the appropriate primer, since its independent adhesion to metal is low.
• Low-quality paints fade very quickly in the sun and lose their shine.
• After drying, a slight change in the color of the coating is possible.

Pros

• High-quality paint can last for many years without losing its qualities.
• You can apply the paint yourself in any way, and unlike nitro dyes, it does not corrode foam rubber coats.
• A huge variety of colors, and even if you cannot find a suitable shade, the paint can always be tinted.

Crucial! Since you won’t be able to replicate the shade later, you must make a tiny reserve when tinting the paint yourself.

It’s important to know the differences between paint types, such as oil-based, acrylic, and enamel paints, when selecting paint for metal surfaces. Every variety has its own advantages and disadvantages, ranging from robustness and simplicity of use to surface quality and rust resistance. This post contrasts these paint kinds to assist you in choosing the one that will look great and provide long-lasting protection for your particular metal project.

Rubber paint

Once upon a time, bitumen paint for metal was highly common. It was made from natural bitumen resin and produced a thick layer that was impervious to outside influences.

One major drawback of these paints was that they were ugly. To address this, rubber paint for metal was created, which had all the benefits of bitumen while also having an appealing appearance and many other advantages.

Cons

• Quite expensive.
• High consumption per square meter.
• Difficulty of application. Not all application methods are suitable for rubber paint, but with any method, the coating should be uniform and without gaps.

Pros

• High degree of protection of metal from any natural influences.
• Low degree of mechanical damage.
• Easily removed if necessary.
• Can be used on galvanized coating, and on the roof, as shown in the photo above.
• Lies down to any surface and does not conflict with other paints.

Watching the video will teach you more about how rubber paint is applied.

Crucial! Wearing personal protective equipment is essential when handling rubber paints, even when working outside, as the paint is highly toxic and can trigger an allergic reaction even if skin contact occurs.

Hammer paint

Brown hammer paint is perfect for both hot and cold water pipes.

Hammer effect paint is, quite rightly, regarded as one of the longest-lasting and most resilient paints. It is totally resistant to corrosion and has no fear of the sun or water.

Actually, this is a three-component metal paint that leaves a distinct pattern on the surface that resembles pits left by a blacksmith’s hammer striking the metal. Chemical solvents or xylene are used to dilute the paint; however, gasoline can also be used if preferred; this will not significantly impact the coating’s quality, particularly if an unidentified manufacturer is selected.

Although it is very difficult to find drawbacks with hammer paint, regrettably, they do exist.

Disadvantages

• High cost.
• High consumption .
• A certain complexity of application, especially if you need to paint a flat surface and a large area.
• If it is necessary to remove the old coating, it will be very difficult to do this.

Pros

• Does not require preliminary priming and surface cleaning.
• High adhesion to metal.
• Resistant to mechanical damage.
• Not afraid of ultraviolet rays and moisture, which allows you to safely use hammer paint outdoors.
• Paint texture can hide defects and unevenness of metal.
• A huge variety of colors.
• Retains all its qualities even after many years.
• Does not require regular renewal.

Important: When applying hammer paint, follow the instructions and use only solvents from the same brand.

Polymer forge paint

Forge enamel has the best indicators across all parameters when compared to the other paint types mentioned. The only drawbacks are the high cost and the requirement to use a primer from the same brand, but considering that the coating will remain intact for at least 20 years, the high cost is more than offset.

Although forge paint and rubber paint have a similar consistency on the outside, their composition and binding agent are entirely different.

Naturally, it is not economical to use such paint on large surfaces, especially given the high paint consumption; however, if budget is not a major concern, then this is a perfect option in every way.

Selecting the appropriate paint for metal can have a big impact on the project’s longevity and look. Making an informed choice requires an understanding of the various types of paint available and their respective applications and benefits.

Oil-based paints are great for outdoor metal surfaces because of their legendary longevity and resistance to inclement weather. They can be more difficult to clean up after and do take longer to dry. Conversely, water-based paints are easier to work with and dry faster than their oil-based counterparts, but they may not be as durable.

Think about acrylic paints if you want a balance between ease of use and durability. They are easy to apply and remove, have good coverage, and don’t fade easily. Epoxy paints are excellent at protecting surfaces exposed to chemicals or heavy traffic, but they must be applied carefully and frequently need a primer.

The ideal option will ultimately rely on your unique requirements, which may include the kind of metal, the conditions it will be exposed to, and your level of willingness to maintain it. You can choose the paint that will work best for your metal surfaces by weighing these considerations.

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