When you work with metal, Flowyline understands that spray paint is the go-to tool for countless projects. It is essential for adding a new look to metalwork, wheel wells, whether for decoration or protection against rust. But there's a big problem that spray paints are not created the same. To get the best results, especially if you want the paint to last and stick properly, it's important to choose the best spray paint for metal surfaces. Keep following this article to make the right choice, you'll achieve not just good-looking results but also one that stands ages.
What Makes the Best Spray Paint for Metal?
As with any type of paint, the best spray paint for metal depends on your specific needs and how you intend to use the metal surface. Below are some of the factors that determine what is a suitable spray paint for metal:
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Weather resistant: In case you are placing the metal furniture outside, it is best to use a weatherproof spray paint. It protects against rain, sun, and temperature changes so that the metal looks great.
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Finish: The type of paint used will produce differing results in the finish. For example, high gloss spray paint provides that shiny, eye-catching appearance yet tends to show imperfections. Matte provides a smoother, contemporary surface that will camouflage flaws.
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Drying time: Most spray paints for metal dry anywhere from 10 minutes to several hours, while setting for optimum hardness may take up to 24 hours. Using fast-drying spray paint may save your time and deliver quality when you need to finish quickly. However, avoid making painting uneven in such instances.
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2 in 1 primer and paint: This type of paint combines the primer and the topcoat, simplifying the coating process. Convenience aside, in most cases, a separate priming step improves adhesion.
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Color: The choice of paint color has a significant impact on the project's final outcome. Picking a suitable color for the space's style will help to prove harmony. Dark or neutral tones are ideal for modern styling. Earthy or pastel tones evoke a warm sense. You can experiment with different spray paint colors for metal and lighting to find the one that best suits you.
There are many different spray paint colors for metal to suit your preferences
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Top Spray Paints for Metal
Below are the types of paint for metal that we have compiled with each use, advantages, disadvantages and current prices on the market. Help you choose the right type for each project:
| BEST OVERALL | BEST FOR HOME USER | FOR OUTSIDE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rust-Oleum 249124 | Krylon K05505007 | Krylon K02727007 | |
| COVER | 12 sq. ft. per can | 25 sq. ft. per can | 25 sq. ft. per can |
| WEIGHT | 12 ounces | 12 ounces | 12 ounces |
| PROS | The spray paint offers excellent color retention and produces a beautiful glossy finish. | A unique combination of black color and gloss finish | UV-resistant, fade-resistant, weather-resistant, and rust-resistant formula |
| CONS | It may require multiple coats | The paint has a strong odor before it dries | The smell of the paint is strong |
| PRICE | $5.98 | $7.79 | $6.98 |
KrylonCOLORmaxx – Best Spray Paint for Metal
This wrecking ball spray paint is perfect for re-opened spray paint metal table legs and wrought iron. It comes in a black finish that looks great on metal and works for both indoor and outdoor projects. It's also handy for other crafting tasks indoor and outdoor. Just keep in mind, you might need a few coats for even coverage. This type of paint costs 5 - 7 USD.
Rust-Oleum Metallic – Best Spray Paints
This spray paint comes in many colors, with red, gray, and copper being the top choices. It’s weather resistant and can work on metal and other surfaces. Rust-Oleum Metallic spray paint is a bit pricey but helps keep surfaces dry and prevents rust. The price of this paint on the market is from 16 - 168 USD depending on quantity and capacity.
Montana Cans BLACK – Metal Spray Paint
This paint is great for graffiti but also works well on metal surfaces like metal legs, bolts, and latches. It gives a matte black finish and comes in small sizes, and thus perfect for small projects. This type on the market costs from 8 - 15 USD.
Krylon Fusion Rose Gold – Spray Paint
Specific designs like drawer pull look great when they are painted in rose gold color. This spray can be best for the surfaces where your thick rose gold color is the only option. Not only rose gold, but you can also choose different colors. It comes in both textured and hammered finishes. Krylon Fusion Rose Gold paint costs from 6 - 15 USD.
Krylon Shimmer Metallic – Spray Paint
Krylon Shimmer Metallic is not only a great choice for giving non-metal surfaces but also for metal. You can use it indoors or outdoors. This spray provides a selection of colors for you to choose and ensures a wide array of metallic shades to complement your project. The price of this paint is from 10 - 25 USD.
Application Tips for Spray Painting Metal
First of all, you will need to determine the size of the spray paint location. This will enable you to buy the correct number of cans needed for the painting job. You may need one spray can for every 8 to 10 square feet. This way, you can estimate how many cans are required to apply the paint.
Plan your spray painting outdoors and ensure moderate climatic conditions. The climate is considered appropriate when the humidity is lower than eighty percent (80%) and the temperature is higher than fifty percent (50%) degrees Fahrenheit. It is best to select days with no wind outside.
Some useful tips for spray painting
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Preparation Process
In this task, you prepare the best spray paint which suits your project. Furthermore, you need to wear a mask or a respirator that will protect you from harmful chemicals present in the paint. Sometimes, it is essential to use a primer when the metal surface is rusty. The suitable primer will improve how well the paint sticks, protects the surface, and gives you better color. Before applying the primer, it is necessary for you to:
- Take a wire brush and clean the surface to ensure any loose paint debris are shed off.
- Once you have done this, clean the surface with a wet cloth to remove any dust particles.
- Do this process until there are no signs of dust.
- Let it dry before applying the primer.
Should read: 5 Metal Table Legs Ideas for Your Accent Tables
FAQs About Best Spray Paint for Metal
What spray paint works best on metal?
Rust-Oleum Stops Rust Spray Paint is one of the best metal paints on the market, providing a long-lasting, rust and corrosion-resistant finish for indoor and outdoor use.
Can I spray paint metal without primer?
No, you cannot. You need to use a primer before spraying metal paint because it helps the paint adhere properly to the metal surface. It also helps prevent peeling and ensures a long lasting finish. Especially for bare or rusted metal because the primer can also protect against rust.
What is the longest lasting paint for metal?
DIP coating metal protective paint is extremely durable. Can be used in most environments from 10 - 20 years. It is highly resistant to weather, chemicals, and corrosion, and offers electrical insulation. If you want to shop metal table legs using this type of paint, you can refer to our products.
Flowyline table legs products
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Shop now: 108 Curva 16" Curved Furniture Legs; Table Legs 423 Curva 28H Dining Furniture Legs
To provide the smoothness and shine needed for a long-term surface finish, the best spray paint for metal should be durable and resistant to the elements. Besides these, drying time, finish, and color play a part in longevity and beauty. You can consult DIP's powder coating legs if you are a novice and do not know how to treat and coat the surface. Because it has a 20-year lifespan and protects the entire surface. We hope this helps you find that ideal paint. This write-up is intended to assist you in choosing the best paint. For more data on the best table legs for your project, please drop us a note at customerservice@flowyline.com!
