Give your metal a gorgeous makeover
Painting a metal surface presents some unique challenges even to experienced DIY homeowners—you don’t want to just pick up whatever can of spray paint you have lying around in the garage and hope for the best. Fortunately, there are lots of options to choose from, with effective and lovely paints available at every price point. Whether you’re painting your fence, outdoor furniture, or playground equipment, here’s what to know about the best paint for metal surfaces.
If you’re wondering how to paint metal surfaces, one of the most important tips to know is this—you must choose the perfect paint for the job. For best results, you should choose an oil-based paint made for metal or one that you can apply to many surface types, including metal. Oil-based paints provide a thorough, long-lasting finish on metal surfaces. They’re also stain-resistant, easier to clean, and provide more consistent coverage. Choose a spray paint for easy application or use a paintbrush. In some cases, you may not even need to apply primer beforehand.
We’ve selected 12 of the top-performing and most highly rated paints for metal surfaces below.
Spray paints are often viewed as easier to handle and use than brush-applied paint. With this type of application, you’ll get greater control and even coverage, including on curved and cut metal surfaces. Oil-based options tend to dry more quickly than other types and generally perform more effectively in colder temperatures.
For that reason, you’ll see a few spray paint products on this list—starting with Rust-Oleum® Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, a highly rated and well-reviewed spray paint that’s good for both indoor and outdoor metal items. It dries within 20 minutes in most conditions. One can of this product should provide decent coverage for up to 12 square feet. It comes in four distinct paint sheens and over 40 colors.
If time isn’t on your side but you still want that sleek, smooth texture and coverage, check out Krylon® ColorMaster Paint and Primer. Like Rust-Oleum’s Painter’s Touch, it comes in a spray can for easy application. Most useful of all, however, is its combination of paint and primer that lets you take care of both needs in one application. It comes in a variety of colors and finishes, dries in 10 minutes or less, and provides great coverage for both indoor and outdoor metal objects, as well as wood and plastic surfaces.
Best for high-heat surfaces such as grills, fire pit surrounds, radiators, and other heat-generating surfaces, Rust-Oleum® High Heat paint helps prevent your smooth finish from blistering and peeling over time. Highly rated by users, this product comes in a 12-ounce can and offers rust protection as well as protection from heat up to 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. Choose from the following colors: almond, dark green, black silver, and white.
As the name suggests, Rust-Oleum® Hammered Metal Finish Paint is an oil-based formula that’s best for flat metal surfaces, such as gates and fences, to which you’d like to give a stylish textured appearance. It’s resistant to most weather events and prevents rust. One gallon is sufficient to provide approximately 100 square feet of coverage. You’ll most likely need a second coat, so plan on doubling up. But on the plus side, you won’t need a primer with this paint, given its thick consistency.
This acrylic formulation will help stave off mildew and mold, making it well-suited for metal surfaces in any damp, moisture-heavy area such as bathrooms and kitchens. BEHR® Pro e600 provides a uniform application, whether you’re using a brush or spray painter system, and will satisfy even the most discerning painting pro or homeowner with its coverage, durability, and moisture-resistant finish.
For a truly versatile spray paint that sticks beautifully to metal surfaces and lasts a long time, check out Krylon® Fusion All-In-One® Spray Paint. Like Krylon’s ColorMaster product, this spray paint combines primer with paint for an easier project, whether on interior or exterior metal objects. It can also handle plastic and wood surfaces without sanding or priming, and it offers solid rust-resistant protection.
If you’re painting wrought iron railings or outdoor metal furniture, you’re likely more interested in preventing rust from moving in than in achieving a circus-like explosion of color. To prevent rust on your painted metal items, opt for POR-15® Rust Preventive Coating. In black, silver, or clear, it provides a non-porous protective barrier to stave off rust and damage from water, salt, corrosive materials, and other chemicals. It takes approximately two to five hours to dry to the touch.
Resistant to rust, stains, and chemicals, Valspar® Anti-Rust Armor comes in handy when you’re painting a metal roof, playground equipment, or other exterior metal surfaces. With its polyurethane reinforcement, it’s durable on metal, machinery, wood, and doors. It’s resistant against chipping and scratching, so your high-traffic pieces can stay pristine. Choose from 18 different colors and flat, satin, or semi-gloss finish. This paint is typically dry to the touch in four to eight hours.
Looking for the best paint for metal that offers a glossy finish? Consider Rust-Oleum® Gloss Protective Enamel Spray Paint. It’s easy to apply, even to large surfaces. With its high-quality sprayer, you can reach the crevices when painting a chain link fence or outdoor furniture. It coats surfaces quickly without any messy cleanup. The glossy finish offers a polished look without dampening its ability to withstand the elements. It’s durable in both full sun and harsh winters.
Whether you want to update a piece of furniture or simply refinish it, Rust-Oleum® Universal® Metallic Spray Paint offers protection and shimmer. Available in a range of colors and finishes, you can customize your look. Not only will your piece turn out smooth and beautiful, but it’ll be protected from rust, fading, and chipping. It’s a paint and primer all in one, so get ready to spray your piece and get fast, easy coverage.
You can also reach out to a local painter to get an expert opinion on the type of paint to use for your project.
If you’re searching for the best type of paint for the exterior metal on your vehicle and motorcycle, look no further. The Dupli-Color® Paint Shop® Finish System can be applied by brush or spray gun (for easier application). It’s pre-mixed, so you can use it right out of the can, and doesn’t drip when you apply it. Choose from a selection of automotive colors or opt for a clear coat. Sand or buff for a smooth finish.
With its easy spray application, the POR-15® Top Coat Spray Paint is a go-to choice when working on your motorcycle or vehicle. You’ll need to prep and prime the surface, but the top-coat adhesion offers maximum protection. It also resists rust, corrosion, and UV rays. With its strong protective layer, you’ll know your vehicle is protected, no matter the weather. While it's dry to the touch in an hour, it takes up to four days to fully cure and harden.
Annie Sisk contributed to this piece.
