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Direct to Metal Paints
Direct to metal paints (DTM), are designed to be applied directly onto various metal surfaces without the need for a separate primer or topcoat. These innovative primer finish coatings are ideal for protecting against corrosion while providing an excellent finish.
With over 4,000 colour options, including RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey, our "primer and topcoat in one paints" are perfect for projects with tight timeframes and budgets, ensuring a quality finish without compromise. Click for more info.
Subcategories
Rust-Oleum CombiColor Original
4,400+ colours available. Primer and topcoat in one. For rust, bare metal and primed steel surfaces. Covers 10.3m² per litre. Lead and chromate free. Usable down to 5°C. Buy A Paint Colour Sample
Rust-Oleum CombiColor Original Aerosols
10+ Colours. Aerosol paint for rust protection and metal surfaces. For rust, bare metal, or primed steel for small maintenance jobs or touch-ups. High gloss finish. Lead- and chromate-free with rust-inhibitive pigments for added corrosion protection. Dry to handle in 6 hours; fully cured in 7 days.
Rust-Oleum Mathys Noxyde Peganox
Water-based elastic coating available in 6 satin colours. Excellent corrosion protection and waterproofing. For use on metal roofs, cladding, structural steel, and caravans, providing protection against weathering, chemicals, and impacts. UV- and impact-resistant. Acts as both primer and topcoat. Professional use only.
Jotun Conseal Touch-Up
Jotun Conseal Touch-Up is a one component physically drying acrylic coating with a matt finish. This high build product is fast drying and can be used direct to metal. Ideal as a primer/topcoat in atmospheric environments Can be applied at sub zero surface temperatures Available in hundreds of RAL, NCS, BS and Jotun Colours - 1,100+ new...
Rust-Oleum Noxyde Pegarust
Available in 7 colours including Anthracite Grey. Solvent-based flexible anti-corrosion coating. For iron, galvanised steel, aluminium, and zinc. Ultimate corrosion protection. UV- and impact-resistant. Primer and topcoat combined. Professional use only.
International Interseal 670HS
International Interseal 670HS is a low VOC, two component high build, high solids surface tolerant epoxy maintenance coating, for application to a wide variety of substrates including hand prepared rusty steel, abrasive blast cleaned and hydroblasted steel, and a wide range of intact, aged coatings. 4,800+ colours, inc. RAL, RAL Design...
Rust-Oleum Mathys Noxyde Plus
9 colours including Anthracite Grey. Water-based elastomeric coating with superior adhesion and corrosion protection. For iron, steel, special alloys, galvanised and metallised iron and steel, aluminium, copper, zinc, and lead. 200% elastic coat. High dirt pick-up resistance. Salt spray resistance of 1248 hours. Professional use only....
Teamac Anti-Corrosive Finish QD
2,400+ Semi-Gloss Colours. Fast-drying anti-corrosive finish designed for metal surfaces. Both a primer and a finish coat, offering durable protection. For structural steel and metal fabrications. Excellent resistance to weathering and corrosion. Buy A Paint Colour Sample
Jotun Jotamastic 87
Jotun Jotamastic 87 is a two component epoxy mastic coating for repair and maintenance. The product is surface tolerant, high solids, high build product. Specially designed for areas where optimum surface preparation is not possible or desired. Provides long lasting protection in environments with high corrosivity.
Rust-Oleum 9100 High Solids Epoxy
4,100+ Colours. Two-pack high-build, glossy epoxy, resistant to corrosion and chemicals. Applied directly on metal or concrete surfaces. Superior protection against solvents, chemicals, abrasion, and impact. Two-year rustproof guarantee. Professional use only. Buy A Paint Colour Sample
Jotun Jotamastic 80
Jotun Jotamastic 80 is a two component polyamine cured epoxy mastic coating that is a surface tolerant, high solids product. Specially designed for areas where optimum surface preparation is not possible or desired Can be used as a primer, mid coat, finish coat or as single coat system in atmospheric and immersed environments Also...
Teamac Duracote Red Oxide Paint
General-purpose red oxide paint. Primer and finish in one coat. For metal surfaces, both indoors and outdoors. Provides anticorrosive protection. Applicable directly to clean, rust-free steel or over a suitable primer.
Rust-Oleum CombiColor Original - Custom Filled Aerosol 8pk
4,400+ Colours. High-gloss aerosol spray for metal protection. For rust, bare metal, or primed steel surfaces. Rust-inhibiting. Lead- and chromate-free formula. Sag-resistant. Provides additional corrosion protection. Buy A Paint Colour Sample
PPG SigmaCover 350
SigmaCover 350 is a two-component, high-build polyamide cured anticorrosive epoxy primer/coating available in 2,600+ colours for wide use in Marine and Protective Coatings such as topsides, decks, superstructures and cargo holds. Available in 2,600+ colours, inc. RAL, BS, NCS & the new NCS 2050 colours Surface tolerant primer/coating...
Jotun Jotamastic 87 WG
Jotun Jotamastic 87 WG is a `Wintergrade` version of Jotamastic 87 to aid application in lower temperatures and provide faster cure and dry times. Two component epoxy mastic coating for repair and maintenance. Surface tolerant High solids High build product Specially designed for areas where optimum surface preparation is not possible...
International Interseal 670HS (Winter Grade)
International Interseal 670HS (Winter Grade) is supplied with a winter grade curing agent to enable more rapid cure at lower temperatures. The product is still a low VOC, two component high build, high solids surface tolerant epoxy maintenance coating, for application to a wide variety of substrates including hand prepared rusty steel and a...
Coo-Var Anti-Corrosive Red Oxide
Available in red. Alkyd-based anti-corrosive primer and finish. Glossy finish, can be overcoated. Protects metal surfaces from rust and corrosion. For structural steel, general metalwork, tanks, iron gates, and pipes.
Sherwin-Williams Macropoxy M922M
Sherwin-Williams Macropoxy M922M (formerly Epigrip M922M) is designed to withstand the most aggressive environments whilst delivering exceptional protection to steel structures. A high solids epoxy mastic, with excellent anti-corrosive properties, Macropoxy M922M provides an ideal solution for maintenance and new build projects where steelwork...
Sherwin-Williams Macropoxy M922
Sherwin-Williams Macropoxy M922 (formerly Epigrip M922) is a high solids, 2-pack glass flake epoxy pigmented with micronised glass flake and anti-corrosives to provide anti-corrosive protection of blast cleaned steel and cathodically protected steel. Macropoxy M922 possess excellent abrasion resistance and has excellent resistance to immersion...
Jotun Jotamastic 80 Aluminium
Jotun Jotamastic 80 Aluminium is a two component polyamine cured epoxy mastic coating. It is aluminium pigmented for improved barrier effect. Suitable for properly prepared carbon steel and aged coating surfaces. Aluminium version of Jotun Jotamastic 80 Surface tolerant, high solids product Specially designed for areas where optimum...
PPG SigmaCover 456 HS
PPG SigmaCover 456 HS is two component high solids polyamide cured recoatable zinc phosphate epoxy primer/coating. This general-purpose epoxy primer/coating is available in 2,600+ colours, inc. RAL, BS, NCS & the new NCS 2050 colours, for steel and concrete structures in atmospheric exposure that can be recoated with various two-component...
Jotun Hardtop Smart Pack
Jotun Hardtop Smart Pack is a two component chemically curing modified acrylic coating that does not contain isocyanates. It has a gloss finish with good gloss retention and can be used direct to metal. It has a 1:1 mixing ratio for easy use and reduced wastage and is specially designed for application with brush and roller. Now available...
Jotun Jotamastic 87 Alu WG
Jotun Jotamastic 87 Alu WG is a `Wintergrade` version of Jotamastic 87 Alu to aid application in lower temperatures and to provide faster drying and curing times. Two component polyamine cured epoxy mastic coating. Surface tolerant High solids High build product that is aluminium pigmented for improved barrier effect
Hydron Nu-Steel One Coat Primer/Topcoat
Nu-Steel One Coat Primer / Topcoat is a quick drying anti corrosive paint with excellent adhesion and exterior durability. This is an economical decorative metal coating system, for the protection of all types of metal. Protection for up to 5 years conforming to BS 5493, the code of practice for the protective coating of iron and steel...
PPG SigmaDur 550 H
PPG Sigmadur 550 H (formerly known as Sigmadur 568) is a two-component, high solids, high-build aliphatic acrylic polyurethane finish with excellent resistance to atmospheric exposure conditions with good colour and gloss retention, resisting splash of mineral and vegetable oils, paraffins, aliphatic petroleum products and mild chemicals....
Sherwin-Williams Macropoxy M455V2
Sherwin-Williams Macropoxy M455V2 (formerly known as Epigrip M455V2) is a high performance 2-pack epoxy protective finish for structural steel. It is suitable for use in marine, chemical or other aggressive environments, but not immersed conditions. Available in 400+ colours, including RAL and BS Order a Colour Sample
PPG SigmaFast 205 LT
SigmaFast 205 LT, a two-component, high-build, polyamide-cured zinc phosphate epoxy primer/coating for atmospheric conditions, drying and curing at low temperatures down to –5°C (23°F). Available in 2,300+ colours, inc. RAL, BS, NCS & the new NCS 2050 colours Easy application by airless spray Recoatable with most two-component epoxy...
Jotun Jotamastic 87 Alu
Jotun Jotamastic 87 Alu provides long lasting protection in environments with high corrosivity. Can be used as primer, mid coat, finish coat or as single coat system in atmospheric and immersed environments. Suitable for properly prepared carbon steel and aged coating surfaces. It can be applied at sub zero surface temperatures.
International Intergard 410
International Intergard 410 is a high build, high performance, two component epoxy with excellent chemical and abrasion resistance. Suitable for use as part of a high performance coating system to provide an anti-corrosive barrier in areas where aggressive corrosion conditions prevail. 4,800+ colours, inc. RAL, RAL Design & Effect, BS,...
Cromadex 290 One Pack Gloss Primer Finish
Cromadex 290 One Pack Gloss Primer Finish is a one pack gloss primer finish suitable for both interior and exterior use. The product contains zinc phosphate giving added corrosion resistance for greater durability. 4,800+ colours, inc. RAL, RAL Design & Effect, BS, NCS & the new NCS 2050 colours Please note: Colours are sold in...
Jotun Jotamastic 80 WG
Jotun Jotamastic 80 WG (Wintergrade) is a two component polyamine cured epoxy mastic coating. Surface tolerant High solids product Specially designed for application at lower temperatures to facilitate faster curing times on areas where optimum surface preparation is not possible or desired Also available in Aluminium for improved...
Cromadex 280 One Pack Eggshell Primer Finish
Cromadex 280 One Pack Eggshell Primer Finish is a one pack eggshell primer finish suitable for both interior and exterior use. The product contains zinc phosphate giving added corrosion resistance for greater durability. It is a high build product making it suitable for application over shotblasted steel. 4,800+ colours, inc. RAL, RAL...
Sherwin-Williams Kem-Kromik 255
Kem-Kromik M255 (formerly known as Sherwin-Williams M255 or Leighs M255) is a single pack quick drying acrylic modified alkyd anti-corrosive protective finish. Available in 400+ colours, including RAL and BS Order a Colour Sample
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Rust-Oleum Metal Paints and Coatings
Rust-Oleum CombiColor: Rust-Oleum CombiColor acts as both a primer and topcoat, offering superior rust prevention and long-lasting protection. This easy-to-apply paint can be used directly on rusted metal. It is one of the UK’s best selling metal paints, and with 4,000+ colours and metallic shades, the customer reviews speak for themselves.
Rust-Oleum CombiColor Multi-Surface: This versatile option works on a variety of surfaces including uPVC, MDF, metal, plastics, glass, and masonry. It’s a quick-drying, solvent-based paint suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
Jotun Metal Paint
Jotun's line of metal paints is crafted to meet the highest standards of durability and aesthetic appeal. With products designed to tackle both industrial and commercial needs, Jotun metal paints are known for their quick-drying properties, resistance to harsh conditions, and versatility in application. Whether you need a protective layer for power plants or a durable finish for architectural projects, Jotun's solutions offer reliability and performance.
Jotun Conseal Touch-Up: A quick-drying acrylic coating that can be applied directly to metal, Jotun Conseal Touch-Up provides a matt finish and serves as a primer and topcoat in one. It's perfect for shipping containers, general steelwork and industrial structures.
Jotun Jotacote Universal N10: Ideal for new constructions requiring a fast-drying solution, this versatile coating can be used as a single coat system, primer, or midcoat.
Jotun Jotamastic 90 and Jotamastic 80: These high build, abrasion-resistant coatings are suitable for poorly prepared surfaces. Jotamastic 90 is ideal for a wide range of colours and harsh conditions, while Jotamastic 80 is a polyamine epoxy mastic suitable for carbon steel and aged coatings, even in freezing temperatures. They are perfect for marine and offshore environments, power plants, and general structural steel maintenance.
International Interzone Metal Paints
International Paints offers specialised coatings designed to provide superior protection and durability in some of the most challenging environments. Their Interzone range is engineered to withstand harsh conditions, making them ideal for offshore, industrial, and marine applications. With advanced formulations that offer long-term resistance to corrosion, mechanical damage, and chemical attack, International Interzone paints ensure your metal structures remain protected and look their best.
International Interzone 954: A modified epoxy barrier coating that offers single-coat application and long-term protection against mechanical damage, corrosion, and chemical attack even in submerged conditions. It is ideal for offshore rigs, chemical plants, and jetties due to its durability in harsh environments.
International Interseal 670HS: This high build epoxy maintenance coating provides superior anti-corrosive protection with minimal surface preparation. It’s suitable for various substrates, including rusty steel and aged coatings. When combined with specific aggregates, it can also serve as a non-slip deck coating.
Projects and User Types Who Would Benefit from Direct to Metal Paints
Direct to metal paints offer unique advantages that cater to a diverse range of users and projects. These paints eliminate the need for a separate primer or topcoat, saving time and reducing costs. From DIY enthusiasts working on small home projects to large-scale industrial applications, direct to metal paints provide reliable protection and an excellent finish. Here’s a closer look at who benefits the most and why:
DIY Enthusiasts:
- Projects: Home metalwork, garden furniture, gates, railings, and decorative metal pieces.
- Benefits: Direct to metal paints offer ease of application and require minimal preparation, making them ideal for DIY projects. Their quick-drying properties allow for faster project completion.
Contractors and Project Managers:
- Projects: Large-scale construction projects, refurbishment of industrial structures, and commercial buildings.
- Benefits: Contractors benefit from reduced labour costs and time savings due to the all-in-one nature of these paints. The extensive colour range and custom colour matching options ensure they can meet specific client requirements.
Industrial and Marine Applications:
- Projects: Offshore platforms, marine vessels, chemical plants, and power stations.
- Benefits: These paints provide excellent protection against harsh environmental conditions, including saltwater, chemicals, and extreme weather. Their durability and resistance to corrosion make them ideal for industrial and marine environments.
Maintenance and Repair Services:
- Projects: Ongoing maintenance of metal structures, bridges, pipelines, and storage tanks.
- Benefits: Maintenance teams appreciate the high performance and long-lasting protection these paints offer. The ability to apply directly over rust and aged coatings simplifies the maintenance process.
Architects and Designers:
- Projects: Custom metal finishes in architectural projects, public art installations, and design features.
- Benefits: The wide range of finishes, from matt to high gloss, and the ability to match specific colour requirements provide architects and designers with creative flexibility.
Application Methods
The method of applying direct to metal paints can significantly influence the final outcome. Depending on the scale of the project and the desired finish, various application techniques can be employed:
- Brushes: Ideal for small projects or detailed work.
- Rollers: Suitable for larger flat surfaces.
- Sprayers: Preferred for large-scale projects and achieving a smooth, even finish. Professional spray equipment may be required for optimal results.
Paint Chemistry and Base Types
Understanding the chemistry and base types of direct to metal paints can help you choose the best product for your needs. Here’s a brief summary of some of the most common types;
- Acrylics: Known for quick drying times and ease of application due to generally being water based and single pack. Suitable for both interior and exterior projects where odour and safer application are important.
- Alkyds: Usually single pack and solvent based offering the most cost effective solution available to all skill levels.
- Epoxies: Offer excellent durability and resistance to harsh chemicals and environments, making these two pack coatings ideal for industrial applications.
- Polyurethanes: Provide a tough, abrasion-resistant finish with excellent colour retention, perfect for high-traffic areas and exterior use.
Storage and Handling
To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of direct to metal paints, proper storage and handling are essential:
- Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handling: Ensure containers are sealed tightly to prevent drying out and contamination. Follow safety guidelines for handling and disposal.
Colour Options and Colour Matching
With over 4,000 colour options available, including popular choices like RAL 7016 Anthracite Grey, these paints can meet a wide range of aesthetic preferences and functional needs. Custom colour matching services are also available to achieve the perfect hue for your project.
Metal Paint Finishes
Selecting the right finish for your project is crucial to achieving the desired look and performance. Here’s a breakdown of the different finishes available and their best use cases:
- Matt Finish:
- Best For: Industrial structures, bridges, and power plants.
- Benefits: Provides a sleek, non-reflective look that hides surface imperfections and is ideal for large, visible surfaces.
- Glossy Finish:
- Best For: Decorative metalwork, gates, and railings.
- Benefits: Offers a shiny, polished appearance that enhances the aesthetic appeal and is easy to clean.
- Semi-Gloss Finish:
- Best For: Interior metal fixtures and commercial buildings.
- Benefits: Balances aesthetic appeal and functionality, providing a slight shine while being durable and easy to maintain.
- Hammered Finish:
- Best For: Outdoor furniture, machinery, and vintage metal pieces.
- Benefits: Creates a textured, hammered effect that adds character and hides surface imperfections effectively.
- Satin Finish:
- Best For: Exterior doors, windows, and trim.
- Benefits: Offers a soft sheen that is more resistant to dirt and grime compared to flat finishes, ideal for high-traffic areas.
Maintenance to Avoid Rust
To maintain the integrity of metal surfaces and avoid rust in the future, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check metal surfaces periodically for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion.
- Touch-Up Paint: Keep a small amount of the direct to metal paint on hand to touch up any chips or scratches promptly.
- Clean Surfaces: Regularly clean metal surfaces to remove dirt, salt, and other corrosive materials.
- Protective Coatings: Apply a fresh coat of paint as needed to maintain a protective barrier against moisture and environmental factors.
- Proper Storage: Store metal items in a dry, covered area when not in use to minimise exposure to the elements.
FAQs about Direct to Metal Paints
Do I need to prepare the metal surface before applying the paint?
Yes, while these paints don’t require a primer, the metal surface should still be suitably prepared. This involves (but is not limited to) cleaning the surface to remove any dirt, grease, loose rust, or old flaky paint. Proper preparation ensures better adhesion and a longer-lasting finish - always refer to the product data sheet for full details.
Can these paints be applied over rust?
Whilst best practice is to always remove any rust completely before painting, some of these direct to metal paints like Rust-Oleum CombiColor Original are formulated to be applied directly over suitably prepared rusty surfaces, providing good protection and a durable finish. This makes them ideal for maintenance projects where removing rust completely is impractical. Where rust cannot be prepared adequately, it is often prudent to use a rust convertor prior to applying any paint.
Are these paints suitable for both interior and exterior use?
The majority of the products in this category once applied and cured will be absolutely fine to be situated in interior or exterior environments. However many of these coatings will be solvent based and/or two component so application of them indoors should be considered carefully and if the product selected is suitable to be applied inside then it should be carried out with caution and all safety precautions adhered to.
How long does it take for the paint to dry?
Drying times can vary, always check the product data sheet for this information which will provide details for drying to touch, overcoating, full cure, etc. depending on environmental conditions.
Can these paints be used in harsh environments?
Yes, coatings like International Interzone 954 are specifically formulated to withstand severe and harsh environments. They offer long-term protection against mechanical damage, atmospheric corrosion, and chemical attack, making them suitable for offshore rigs, chemical plants, and other challenging settings.
Do I need special equipment to apply these paints?
Generally, these paints can be applied using standard painting tools such as brushes, rollers, or sprayers. For larger commercial projects, professional spray equipment might be preferred to achieve a smoother and more even finish. Always refer to the product specifications for the best application method.
Who benefits from using direct to metal paints?
Direct to metal paints are beneficial for a wide range of users. DIY enthusiasts can enjoy the ease of application and the time-saving aspect of these paints. Project managers and contractors will appreciate the quick turnaround times and reduced labour costs. Commercial users, such as those in the construction, marine, and industrial sectors, will benefit from the durability and long-lasting protection these coatings provide.
What types of projects are suitable for direct to metal paints?
These paints are ideal for a variety of projects including refurbishing rusted metal structures, painting new constructions, protecting industrial equipment, maintaining marine vessels, and coating exterior and interior metal surfaces in commercial buildings. They are especially useful in projects with tight deadlines and budgets.
Can these paints be used on surfaces other than metal?
Certain products like Rust-Oleum CombiColor Multi-Surface are formulated to adhere to a variety of substrates including uPVC, MDF, plastics, glass, and masonry. The majority of products in this category however are just for application to metal surfaces only.
What kind of finish can I expect from these paints?
The finish can vary depending on the product. For instance, Jotun Conseal Touch-Up offers a matt finish, while Coo-Var Hammercote Hammered Finish provides a hammered effect.
If you have a question which has not been covered in these FAQs, or have a specific project requirement, please use the search option on the site, this category’s sidebar filter or sub-category links, or contact our Technical and Product Support Team by phone, email or live chat.
What Rawlins’ Customers Say:
Don’t just take our Technical Support Teams’ words for it, here’s what our customers have to say about Direct to Metal Paints they have purchased from our store:
The information provided above is a basic overview and is intended as general information only. It is not advice, and is given without warranty. You should always refer to the relevant data sheets and our Technical Team prior to purchase or use of any products.