10 Best Clear Coat For Metal 2025 in the United States

The SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Clearcoat (FC720) is a solid choice for those looking to protect and enhance the appearance of their automotive metal surfaces.

One of its standout features is the high gloss finish it provides, which enhances the distinctness of image, leveling, blending, and buffing abilities. This makes your car look shiny and well-maintained. It's specifically designed as a high solids urethane clear coat, meaning it's reliable for overall refinishing jobs on automotive basecoats and cured single stage enamels. The included medium universal hardener is a good addition, helping to ensure a smooth and durable finish.

The 4:1 mixing ratio is standard and straightforward, making it relatively easy to prepare and apply. Two coats using a cross-coat application technique are recommended for the best results. The product is also noted for being easy to polish, which can save time and effort during the finishing process. While it boasts flake resistance, it's crucial to ensure proper application techniques to avoid any potential issues. If you're looking for a reliable and high-quality clear coat for automotive metal surfaces, this product from Sherwin-Williams is a reputable option.

The Rust-Oleum 302110 Universal All Surface Clear Topcoat Spray is a versatile product that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including metal, wood, plastic, and more. This flexibility makes it a convenient option for different projects. The spray provides a high gloss finish, adding a shiny and polished look to the surfaces it’s applied to.

It's oil-based, which helps with excellent adhesion and long-lasting results by preventing rust and resisting fading and chipping. This makes it particularly durable and suitable for both interior and exterior applications. One of its standout features is the fast drying time — it dries to the touch in just 30 minutes, which can be very practical if you're on a tight schedule.

Additionally, it covers up to 15 square feet per can, offering decent coverage for smaller projects. However, because it's a spray, the application may require some practice to achieve a smooth, even coat, and protective measures should be taken to avoid inhaling fumes. It’s also worth noting that while it’s excellent for preventing rust and corrosion, its high gloss finish might not be suitable for everyone, especially if a matte or satin finish is preferred. This product is best suited for those looking for a durable, fast-drying, high-gloss clear coat for a variety of surfaces, including metal.

The KBS Coatings 8504 DiamondFinish Clear Coat is a versatile and robust option for protecting metal surfaces. As a moisture-cured urethane, it boasts impressive durability, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion, chemicals, and high temperatures. This clear coat can be applied over other coatings or directly to metal without significant surface preparation required, making it user-friendly.

One of its standout features is its high solids content (over 60%) and low VOCs, which contribute to its strong, hard finish that won't yellow, crack, or peel. Additionally, you won't need a hardener; just stir and apply with a brush, roller, or spray gun, and it will cure at room temperature (50° to 86° Fahrenheit). It's also suitable for automotive applications, including high-temperature areas like cylinder heads and engine blocks. However, it’s worth noting that the drying time is 24 hours, which might be longer than some users expect.

The product is also designed for professional-level use, which may present a learning curve for novices. Lastly, while it provides excellent chemical resistance (even against harsh substances like battery acid and brake fluid), ease of use in removing graffiti is a notable added benefit. In essence, this product is ideal for those needing a tough, long-lasting clear coat for both metallic and painted surfaces, particularly in automotive contexts.