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10 Best Clear Coat For Metal 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,451
Finish
UV Resistance
Durability

Most important from
39883 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
10.0
Chosen by1,451
Finish
UV Resistance
Durability

Most important from
39883 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.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
1923 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
10.0
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
1923 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.
#3

Rust-Oleum 376868 Stops Rust Custom Spray 5-in-1 Spray Paint, 12 oz, Matte Clear

Rating
9.8
Type of Clear Coat
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
4323 reviews

Type of Clear Coat
The oil-based formula provides 30% more corrosion resistance and better color retention, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Finish
Non-yellowing and quick-drying, this product ensures a long-lasting finish.
Application Method
The 5-in-1 spray dial offers incredible flexibility, making it perfect for projects requiring precision and coverage.

The Rust-Oleum 376868 Stops Rust Custom Spray 5-in-1 is a versatile enamel clear coat designed for metal surfaces, offering benefits for both interior and exterior applications. One of its standout features is the 5-in-1 spray dial, which allows you to choose between different spray patterns like high output, standard, low output, vertical fan, and horizontal fan. This flexibility means you can achieve precise results depending on your project needs. The 360° any-angle spray technology further enhances ease of use, allowing you to spray at any angle, even upside down.

The advanced oil-based formula provides 30% greater corrosion resistance and better color retention compared to the original Stops Rust colors, ensuring long-lasting protection for your metal surfaces. The matte finish is effective in minimizing surface imperfections, delivering a smooth, flat appearance. Fast drying is another plus, as the paint dries to the touch in just 15 minutes and covers 8-10 square feet per can, saving you time during application.

Rust-Oleum's 5-in-1 spray paint is a robust choice for those needing a durable and versatile clear coat for metal, especially for those valuing ease of application and a matte finish.

Rating
9.8
Type of Clear Coat
Finish
Application Method

Most important from
4323 reviews

Type of Clear Coat
The oil-based formula provides 30% more corrosion resistance and better color retention, ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Finish
Non-yellowing and quick-drying, this product ensures a long-lasting finish.
Application Method
The 5-in-1 spray dial offers incredible flexibility, making it perfect for projects requiring precision and coverage.

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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