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10 Best Clear Coat For Metal 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat (FC720), 1 Gallon | Medium Universal Hardener (FH612), 1 Quart Included

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,132
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
1763 reviews

Finish
Achieves a flatter and smoother finish compared to more expensive options.
Application Method
This clear coat goes on smoothly and is easy to apply.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,132
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
1763 reviews

Finish
Achieves a flatter and smoother finish compared to more expensive options.
Application Method
This clear coat goes on smoothly and is easy to apply.
#2

Rust-Oleum 302110 Universal All Surface Clear Topcoat Spray, 11 oz, High Gloss Clear

Rating
9.8
Finish
UV Resistance
Durability

Most important from
39097 reviews

Finish
The spray provides a beautiful, shimmery finish, perfect for projects needing a metallic touch.
UV Resistance
A protective clear coat is recommended over metallic finishes to prevent fading and chipping, adding durability and UV protection.
Durability
This product lives up to Rust-Oleum's reputation for quality, offering smooth application and a durable finish.

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.

Rating
9.8
Finish
UV Resistance
Durability

Most important from
39097 reviews

Finish
The spray provides a beautiful, shimmery finish, perfect for projects needing a metallic touch.
UV Resistance
A protective clear coat is recommended over metallic finishes to prevent fading and chipping, adding durability and UV protection.
Durability
This product lives up to Rust-Oleum's reputation for quality, offering smooth application and a durable finish.
#3

Krylon K01305 Gallery Series Artist and Clear Coatings Aerosol, 11-Ounce, UV-Resistant Clear Gloss

Rating
9.6
Type of Clear Coat
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
26510 reviews

Type of Clear Coat
The Crystal Clear formulation provides excellent clarity, adding a protective layer without altering the underlying color or texture.
Finish
This spray paint dries to a beautiful glossy finish within minutes, significantly reducing the waiting time for handling or applying additional coats.
Application Method
The Krylon K01305 is incredibly easy to use, with a spray nozzle that delivers a consistent and even coat, resulting in smooth and flawless finishes on various surfaces.
Drying Time
This spray paint dries to a beautiful glossy finish within minutes, significantly reducing the waiting time for handling or applying additional coats.
Durability
Once dry, the coating is resilient and resistant to scratches, ensuring projects maintain their pristine appearance over time.

The Krylon K01305 Gallery Series Artist and Clear Coatings Aerosol is a versatile clear coat spray suitable for various surfaces, including metal. It offers a high gloss finish, enhancing the appearance of your projects while providing protection.

Key strengths of this product include its UV resistance, which helps prevent yellowing and damage from sunlight, and its moisture resistance, ensuring durability in different environmental conditions. Additionally, it dries quickly, allowing for efficient project completion without long wait times.

However, the product's 11-ounce volume may require multiple cans for larger projects, potentially increasing costs. It's also worth noting that it is an aerosol spray, which may require a well-ventilated area for application to avoid inhalation of fumes. The Krylon K01305 is particularly beneficial for those working on art projects or DIY enthusiasts looking for a reliable, protective clear coat that ensures a glossy finish and long-lasting results.

Rating
9.6
Type of Clear Coat
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
26510 reviews

Type of Clear Coat
The Crystal Clear formulation provides excellent clarity, adding a protective layer without altering the underlying color or texture.
Finish
This spray paint dries to a beautiful glossy finish within minutes, significantly reducing the waiting time for handling or applying additional coats.
Application Method
The Krylon K01305 is incredibly easy to use, with a spray nozzle that delivers a consistent and even coat, resulting in smooth and flawless finishes on various surfaces.
Drying Time
This spray paint dries to a beautiful glossy finish within minutes, significantly reducing the waiting time for handling or applying additional coats.
Durability
Once dry, the coating is resilient and resistant to scratches, ensuring projects maintain their pristine appearance over time.

Buying Guide for the Best Clear Coat For Metal

When choosing a clear coat for metal, it's important to understand that this product is designed to protect and enhance the appearance of metal surfaces. Clear coats can prevent rust, corrosion, and tarnishing while providing a glossy or matte finish. The right clear coat will depend on the type of metal, the environment it will be exposed to, and the desired finish. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a clear coat for metal.
Type of Clear CoatClear coats for metal come in various types, including polyurethane, epoxy, and acrylic. Polyurethane is known for its durability and resistance to chemicals and abrasion, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. Epoxy clear coats provide a hard, protective finish that is excellent for industrial applications. Acrylic clear coats are easier to apply and dry quickly, making them suitable for DIY projects. Choose the type based on the specific needs of your project and the environment the metal will be exposed to.
FinishThe finish of a clear coat can range from high gloss to matte. A high gloss finish will give the metal a shiny, reflective appearance, which is great for decorative pieces or surfaces that you want to stand out. A matte finish, on the other hand, provides a more subdued look and can help hide imperfections on the metal surface. Consider the aesthetic you are aiming for and the condition of the metal when choosing the finish.
UV ResistanceUV resistance is an important factor if the metal will be exposed to sunlight. UV-resistant clear coats prevent the metal from fading, yellowing, or degrading over time due to UV exposure. If the metal is going to be used outdoors or in a location with significant sunlight exposure, opt for a clear coat with high UV resistance to ensure long-lasting protection and appearance.
Application MethodClear coats can be applied using different methods such as spraying, brushing, or rolling. Spraying provides a smooth, even finish and is ideal for large or intricate surfaces. Brushing is more suitable for small areas or touch-ups, while rolling can be used for flat, expansive surfaces. Consider the size and shape of the metal object, as well as your comfort level with each application method, when choosing the clear coat.
Drying TimeDrying time can vary significantly between different clear coats. Fast-drying clear coats are convenient for quick projects or when multiple coats are needed in a short period. However, they may require more skill to apply evenly. Slower-drying clear coats allow more time for adjustments and can result in a smoother finish, but they require more patience. Choose a clear coat with a drying time that fits your project timeline and skill level.
DurabilityDurability is crucial for clear coats that will be exposed to harsh conditions, such as heavy use, moisture, or chemicals. High-durability clear coats are designed to withstand these conditions without chipping, peeling, or wearing away. If the metal will be in a demanding environment, prioritize a clear coat with high durability to ensure long-lasting protection. For less demanding applications, a standard durability clear coat may suffice.

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