Kirby Research is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

The Best Spray Paint For Metal You Can Consider 2023 [Top 32 Choices]

Spray paints are one of the most accessible paints to use and apply quickly, instead of conventional paint. Not only simple to use, but the features of spray paints are also always appreciated on many surfaces, especially metal.

This type helps you safely protect the metal surface on your items, limiting rust due to environmental impacts. However, it does not guarantee complete durability and adhesion. 

You should choose the best spray paint for metal for the best finish quality. We offer suggestions so that you can make the best choice for your job.


Comparison Table

Showing  1 - 10  in  32 results
TOP Choice
1
  • SCORE
    9.8
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Krylon
2
  • SCORE
    9.6
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Krylon
3
  • SCORE
    9.6
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Rust-Oleum
4
  • SCORE
    9.6
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Rust-Oleum
5
  • SCORE
    9.6
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Rust-Oleum
6
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Rust-Oleum
7
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Krylon
8
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Krylon
9
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Rust-Oleum
10
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    Reviews are based on big data aggregated from sales pages and product buyer reviews. All ranking arrangements are automatically AI-driven according to product buyer reviews.

  • Brand
    Rust-Oleum

Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

4.5
2 ratings


Buying Guides

Type

There are two base options for your metal surfaces, including water-based acrylic or oil-based enamel one. They are two different types because their adhesion and durability are not equal.

It would help if you chose an oil-based challenging enamel one because it is best for metal surfaces like Krylon K02719007 Fusion All-In-One when it is perfect. 

Its advantage is that it works well at low temperatures, protects, and covers the material well; you don't even need a second coat. Yet, it will take longer to dry.

Indoors vs. Outdoor 

The second feature you can consider is whether your metal object's location is indoor or outdoor. It means that the environment in which it is will affect the paint finish over time.

The indoor spray is water-resistant and less durable than the outdoor one. Although the indoor version is not resistant to wind, dew and moisture, and good rain, Krylon K02203 General Purpose has more colors.

Paints with Primers

The effect of primer in painting a metal product is to help it have better adhesion. The drawback of this work is that the drying time of the primer is quite long and is not suitable for jobs requiring a short time. Because of this, some paints now have a primer integrated into the formula.

Durability

Like most appliances, outdoor paints will require more durability than indoor paint. Indoor products have shielding elements and are available primarily for decorative purposes.

Outdoor ones are resistant to moisture, temperature changes, and sunlight. Some of today's products are also UV resistant. Your product will lose color and peel off the paint very quickly without these characteristics.

UV Protection

UV protection is also an improvement of the spray line regarding finish and durability. Most objects will be affected by UV rays and quickly fade over time.

In this respect, Rust-Oleum 7274830 Stops Rust Metallic is an ideal product as it can keep its vivid colors and luster for a longer time.

Adhesion

Adhesion creates the durability and cohesion of the layer on your items. Although you can use primer as part of the adhesion, you should spray with high adhesion to increase the quality.

It allows you to use it on various surfaces such as glass or polished metal. At the same time, you should not paint too many layers, and they will cause the quality of the object to decrease and lose its cohesion.

Drying Speed

If you leave items to be painted outdoors or in a warehouse, you need to know how long the paint will take to dry before storing them away. At the same time, you'll be able to avoid letting rain or high temperatures affect your items.

Water-based spray paints have the advantage of drying faster than oil-based paints. However, the manufacturer has provided the specific time on the packaging along with other details such as origin and ingredients. Water-based acrylic paints dry within 30 minutes per coat, while oil-based paints require up to 60 minutes per coat.


FAQs

Is spray painting durable on metal?

The special oil-based acrylic spray provides good adhesion to many different surfaces from metal, plastic, wood, tile to glass. If you are looking for an ideal and perfect product for any environment, then Krylon K05539007 COLORmaxx Spray is the best.

It has the durability that professionals and consumers alike appreciate and the ability to work in both outdoor and indoor spaces.

Is it better to spray or paint metal?

Suppose you are looking for the best paint for your metal material. We are sure that spray is better than one in many ways. These include faster coverage and drying times and a perfect finish as the surface minimizes uneven streaks.

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X will be a good choice as it can work on metal, plastic, vinyl, drywall, mortar, brick, and other building materials. 

It only takes 20 minutes to dry and completely dries 48 hours due to its oil base. Yet, it is resistant to impact abrasion and has a highly pleasing finish.

How do you keep spray paint from chipping on metal?

To keep the paint from chipping, make sure your color is of the best quality and durable. Second, you should choose a paint with a primer like Krylon K05150107 ColorMaster or use a primer to cover the entire surface of the item before.

Depending on the environment you will place the product, choose to paint indoors or out. However, most outdoor paints are helpful for all surfaces and minimize cracking. Alternatively, you can also protect the area you don't want to paint with masking tape.

When can I apply a clear coat after spray painting?

You should spray paint after about 30 minutes from when you apply the base coat and apply 4-5 coats of wet paint; wait 10 minutes between coats. Make sure the previous coat is dry to the touch and move on to the next skin.

It will ensure your job is done perfectly and has the best finish.

Should I sand between spray paint coats?

You should sand the surface before applying the final coat. The reason is that spray paint can create gloss and clearly show flaws on your items.

At the same time, between spray paint coats, you should also sand for the best coating and high adhesion, increasing the product's durability.


Final Words

This article has provided guidelines and characteristics you can use when comparing the best spray paint for metal. They are all the points to consider before buying a product for most professionals and regular consumers.

In addition, we also recommend the best paints according to each aspect:

We hope you choose a paint that best suits your intended use, whether indoor or outdoor. Spray color will be simple and convenient when you have good quality paint and durable over time.


Lumia Shaffer
Lumia Shaffer

I'm Lumia Shaffer! I'm a Kirby Research author, with a passion for writing, I've researched and published many in-depth product research articles!
My Twitter: https://twitter.com/KirbyLumias