Top 15 best paints for rust: rating 2021-2022 and what to look for when choosing

Any metal surface over time is covered with rust. And, if you need to paint such material, it will have to be previously cleaned.

Unfortunately, there is not always enough time for this, and in hard-to-reach places rust can not be removed at all.

In this case, special paints for covering rusty surfaces are useful.

But before you buy, you should take into account that such paints are not universal. Therefore, before buying, you should always consider the degree of rust damage to the surface, the drying speed of the paint and the volume of the package.

We took into account all the nuances of selection and compiled a list of basic characteristics and a list of the best rust paints in 2021-2022 in the price/quality ratio.

Top 15 Best Rust Paints 2021-2022 rankings

Place	Name	Price
Top 4 best rust paints by price/quality for 2021-2022
1	Tikkurila Metallista	Check price
2	DALI Rust 3-in-1	Learn the price
3	EKODOM rust 3-in-1	Learn the price
4	Goodhim NOVAX rust 3-in-1	Learn the price
TOP 4 best interior rust paints
1	NEOMID 3-in-1 rust inhibitor	Learn the price
2	Primer rust enamel 3 in 1	Ask for details
3	Alpina Direkt auf Rost directly on rust	Ask the price
4	Dufa Hammerlack Glatt.	Check out the price
Top 4 best rust paints for exterior applications
1	DALI Special Rust 3 in 1	See price
2	Dufa Premium Hammerlack dark grey	Learn the price
3	Home Rust Primer White 3in1	Learn the price
4	HAMMERITE TOTAL	Learn the price
Top 3 best spray paints for rust
1	KUDO primer enamel	Learn the price
2	Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Ultra Cover 2X primer enamel	Learn the price
3	KUDO Rust-Oleum Paint with Hammerite	Learn the price

How to choose a rust topcoat and what to look for?

Paint on rust really saves time. But in order for the coating to be really high quality and not crack over time, you need to choose the right paint product.

When choosing it, pay attention to:

The degree of damage. It is important to objectively assess the size of the rust damaged area and the depth of penetration of corrosion into the metal.
Protective layer .. The paint package usually indicates what kind of protective layer the paint forms: thin, thick, strong, etc. For example, if the paint will be used for exterior work, it is better to give preference to formulations with a strong protective layer.
Drying speed. This indicator plays an important role not only for further repair work. For example, if the metal product is partially in the water or is constantly in a humid environment, it is important to choose a fast-drying paint.
Toxicity. Absolutely all paints that are used to paint rusty areas are toxic, although they may differ in this criterion. The lower the level of toxicity, the easier it will be to work with the paint, especially if the work will take a long time to complete.

As far as texture is concerned, rust paints only come in matte or glossy finishes. The first type compounds are very good at masking irregularities and other surface defects, while glossy ones make the surface more attractive.

Top 4 Best Rust Paints by Price/Quality for 2021-2022

Quality rust paints cost more than conventional products, but the lines of many proven brands include products that combine reasonable cost with decent quality.

Tikkurila Metallista

This special rust paint is considered versatile and suitable for For indoor as well as outdoor use.

The composition of the product is balanced and includes a special rust converter, an anti-corrosion primer and a decorative finish.

Thanks to these components the painted product not only acquires a renewed color, but also receives protection from the negative effects of environmental factors.

Wax creates a unique protective barrier on the surface and prevents moisture from penetrating deep into the material.

The anticorrosive components also deserve attention.

They act on rust, preventing its spreading and prolonging the service life of the coating.

Although the surface to be treated does not need any special preparation, loose rust must be removed before the paint is applied and the metal itself must be dry.

Technical characteristics:

glossy texture;
dries in 8 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Pros of

does not drip and lies evenly;
can be used for painting work inside the house or apartment;
economical consumption;
full drying does not take a long time.

Disadvantages

too caustic smell;
Some users find the paint too thick.

DALI Rust 3-in-1

This product can be used to refinish steel and cast iron fences, garages and gates, and Non-ferrous metals and galvanized metals can also be repainted with this product..

The product can also be used on wood, but the surfaces must be perfectly dry. The paint is optimally thick so that it can be spread evenly with a roller or brush, and also applied to surfaces with a sprayer if a large area needs to be painted.

The paint is only available in white, but the user can create a unique shade by adding a special tint from the same manufacturer to the paint.

Another advantage of the paint is that it dries very quickly (only 3 hours), so it does not take long to treat numerous surfaces.

The product is suitable for painting outdoors and indoors, but in the latter case, you must use personal respiratory protection.

Technical characteristics:

glossy texture;
dries in 3 hours;
thinner - solvent.

Advantages

forms a thick coat;
Can be applied to dry wooden surfaces;
suitable for application with industrial spray guns.

Disadvantages

Very acrid and unpleasant odor;
Sometimes difficult to apply with a compressor.

EKODOM Rust 3-in-1

This special paint is designed to be applied on rust, and contains The surface to be treated does not need to be prepared in any special way.

But for the paint to be really good, loose rust particles will have to be removed. The product is universal, so it can be used to paint surfaces with pitting and continuous rust up to 100 µm thick.

Another feature of the product is that it can be applied not only to rusty surfaces, but also to prepainted surfaces without having to wash away the previous coat of paint.

The optimum thickness of the paint allows it to be applied with a roller, brush and sprayer without splashing or overflowing. To achieve a top-quality and long-lasting effect, it is recommended to apply the paint in several layers.

Technical characteristics:

glossy texture;
Consumption 7 l / sq.m;
dries in 1 hour.

Advantages

economical consumption;
quick and easy to apply without splashing or streaking;
wide range of colors.

Cons

costs more than other paints;
Some users find the paint too thick.

Goodhim NOVAX Rust 3 in 1

One of the best rust paints, although the cost is in the budget. The product has a glossy texture, so it does not mask surface imperfections very well, but it makes the finished coating really stylish and beautiful.

The paint is thick enough, so it applies evenly even on vertical surfaces, without flowing or splashing around.

Unlike other rust based paints, this product does not have a fast drying time, so it can take a long time to paint, especially if you need to apply multiple coats of paint.

The product is economical to use and the wide range of colors allows you to choose the best shade.

Also suitable for application on concrete, but the surface must be completely dry and dust free.

Technical characteristics:

glossy texture;
dries in 24 hours;
type of coating - covering.

Pros of

adequate price
excellent covering properties;
Can be applied to vertical surfaces;
suitable for painting concrete products.

Disadvantages

very unpleasant, pungent smell;
takes a long time to dry.

Top 4 Best Interior Rust Paints

Surfaces covered with rust can be not only outside, but also in the apartment or house. For interior painting work, use special compositions that are odorless and quick-drying.

NEOMID on rust 3 in 1

Alkyd semi-glossy enamel designed for painting of pre-cleaned and corroded metal, including galvanized.

Since the product already contains a primer, you can start painting almost immediately without having to treat the surface with an additional primer. Another feature of the product is that the paint dries in only 30 minutes.

The manufacturer has taken care that the paint can be applied easily and evenly.. It is thick enough, so it can be used even on shaped and forged items.

It can also be applied to vertical surfaces without fear of splashing or spreading.

Although it is not necessary to sweep away rust, the metal surface must be cleaned of oil and grease and loose rust that could reduce the quality of the finish.

Technical characteristics:

semi-glossy texture;
Dries in 30 minutes;
Coating type - hiding.

Pros of

semi-glossy texture perfectly masks the irregularities;
economical consumption;
suitable for interior work.

Disadvantages

not a very large selection of colors;
corrosive unpleasant odor.

Primer rust enamel 3 in 1

The alkyd base of the product ensures uniform application without streaks and smudges. Thanks to it the paint can be applied even on small metal parts and vertical surfaces without fear that the product will run off.

The paint consistency is moderately thick and can be applied not only with a roller or paint brush but also with a paint sprayer.

In spite of the fact that the paint has a distinctly unpleasant smell, it can be used both for exterior and interior works..

At the same time the drying time is not the shortest and amounts to 8 hours.

Therefore, if you need to apply several coats of paint on the surfaces indoors, you will have to allocate the whole day for that.

In addition, the composition of the paint includes special components that protect the finished coating from moisture, frost or the damaging effects of direct sunlight.

Technical data:

alkyd basis;
dries in 8 hours;
Type of coating - hiding.

Advantages of

adequate price;
Covers high quality vertical surfaces;
the composition includes a primer;
protects the surface from moisture and frost.

Cons

very unpleasant smell;
Takes longer to dry than comparable products.

Alpina Direkt auf Rost directly on rust

The enamel is a comprehensive product that not only blocks rust, but prevents further spreading of rust on the metal product.

This paint is a 3-in-1 product as it consists of a primer, the paint itself and a special finishing layer that protects the finished coat from rain, frost and direct sunlight.

Each component of the product performs its functions. The primer consists of special binding components, which qualitatively level the surface and ensure adhesion to any coating.

The active pigments of the paint are evenly distributed on the surface, forming a quality protective layer, and the finish coat guarantees complete sealing of the surface.

As a result, the finished coating not only perfectly resists sun and moisture, but also does not get covered with dirt.

Technical Characteristics:

glossy texture;
Dries in 6 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Pros of

finishing coat increases resistance to moisture;
the glossy texture improves the appearance of products;
easy to apply without smudging.

Cons

there are difficulties when applying with a spray gun;
costs more than analogues.

Dufa Hammerlack Glatt

Universal rust paint that combines three important components at once. В The product contains a primer, a direct paint preparation with corrosion protection and a finishing enamel.

Thanks to this composition, the metal surface does not need to be pre-treated.

The primer will provide high-quality alignment of the metal, and the main preparation not only gives the products the desired color, but also prevents further spread of rust.

The finishing coat gives the surface a nice glossy shine, prevents the detrimental effects of moisture and protects the paint from fading.

The paint is suitable for exterior and interior work. In addition, the product has a moderately thick consistency.

It enables easy and uniform application on horizontal surfaces and does not drip off from vertical surfaces..

The product does not sputter during application and it can be applied with a traditional paintbrush or roller as well as with special sprayers.

Technical characteristics:

glossy texture;
dries in 12 hours;
type of coating - covering.

Advantages

optimal drying time;
economical consumption;
Does not splash and does not spill when applied to a vertical surface;
the finish coat is resistant to environmental factors.

Disadvantages

Some users find the drying time too long;
loose rust must be scraped away before application.

Top 4 best exterior rust paints

If the paint will be used for exterior work, you should give preference to formulations of increased resistance. As a result, the finished coating will be resistant to moisture, frost and direct sunlight.

DALI Special on rust 3 in 1

This protective and decorative paint is designed not only to improve the appearance of of metal products, but also for increasing their performance characteristics.

The composition of the product allows it to be used for the treatment of metal products with pitting or continuous rust.

Since the paint is a 3-in-1 product, you do not have to spend a lot of time preparing the surface before using it.

The paint already contains a primer that penetrates into all microscopic cracks and smooths the surface well.

The finished coating is resistant to temperature changes, so the paint is excellent for exterior painting works.

Additional resistance to moisture, frost and direct sunlight is provided by a special finishing enamel.

It also makes the treated surface glossy, smooth and durable. Also, such a finish prevents the paint from burning out, so the user does not have to renew the paint layer frequently.

Technical characteristics:

texture - glossy;
dries in 2 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Advantages

high-quality alkyd base;
primer perfectly levels the surface;
the coating is resistant to moisture and frost.

Cons

Some users find the flow rate too high;
Very unpleasant smell.

Dufa Premium Hammerlack dark gray

The manufacturer of this paint is well known to domestic consumers. This model has a dark gray color and is adapted for painting works in the open air.

With the help of this paint you can quickly restore the color of metal products, including forged ones.

The product contains a primer, so it is necessary to carry out a special preparation of the surface: when applied, the paint will self-level the surface and fill all the voids.

But the manufacturer recommends removing loose rust particles for the finished coating to be really high quality.

The paint layer itself not only restores the color of the treated surface, but also reliably blocks rust, preventing its further spreading.

The final layer of enamel increases the resistance of the coating to wear and tear. As a result, the treated surface is not afraid of moisture, temperature fluctuations or direct sunlight.

Technical characteristics:

Texture - glossy;
Dries in 4 hours;
Type of coating - hiding.

Pros of

prevents the spreading of rust;
allows to get moisture-resistant and wear-resistant coating;
universal dark gray color.

Cons

Some users find the paint too liquid;
has an extremely unpleasant odor.

Ecodom white 3in1 rust primer enamel

Universal alkyd-based exterior paint suitable for painting a wide variety of Different surfaces, including furniture, building fronts, and rust-covered items.

The primer particles of this product penetrate into all depressions and smooth out all irregularities. The paint layer itself has a matte texture, so it perfectly masks any surface defects and irregularities.

Although the paint was originally designed for outdoor use, it can also be used indoors.

To get a really good and durable coating, it is better to apply the paint in several layers and wait until the previous layer is completely dry.

The paint is of medium thickness, but if the remainder of the product in the can has become too thick, it can be refilled with a normal solvent.

Technical characteristics:

texture - semi-matte;
Dries in 6 hours;
Type of coating - hiding.

Advantages

Can be thinned with a standard solvent;
perfectly levels the surface;
Suitable for painting furniture;
large volume packaging.

Cons

costs more than analogues;
while working, it is necessary to wear a mask or respirator.

HAMMERITE TOTAL

This paint is suitable for treating various types of metal, including cast iron, aluminium and galvanized.

The product contains anti-corrosion additives.

As a result, after the painting work, a coating of increased strength is formed, and before starting the treatment, it is not necessary to treat the surface with a primer.

It is already part of the preparation, and the primer particles penetrate into all surface irregularities, qualitatively leveling the treated material.

The paint has a low content of volatile organic compounds, so there is almost no unpleasant smell during work. The product also boasts a fairly fast drying speed.

In addition, the manufacturer has implemented in the product the technology "Permanent Color"..

It protects the coating from fading and discoloration throughout the life of the product. Despite the fact that the coating remains durable for 12 years, the manufacturer recommends renewing the paint layer as it is used.

Technical characteristics:

texture - glossy;
dries in 4 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Pros of

primer in the composition qualitatively levels the surface;
increases the resistance of the coating to moisture and temperature fluctuations;
quickly and easily applied to vertical surfaces.

Disadvantages

high price;
there are difficulties in applying with a sprayer.

Top 3 best spray paints for rust

If you need to paint a small product or an item with many small details, it is worth giving preference to aerosol formulations. Three aerosol rust paints were considered the best in this category in 2021-2022.

KUDO Primer Enamel.

Synthetic enamel with primer in its composition is designed for painting products made of Any metals, including those partially or completely damaged by rust.

The product successfully combines a rust neutralizer, primer and decorative enamel. It significantly reduces the time of painting works.

It is not necessary to make a special preparation of the surface, but it is better to remove loose rust particles.

Otherwise, the finished coating will not be durable.

The product has high hiding power and adhesion, so it is firmly fixed on almost all surfaces.

After it dries the coating becomes resistant to atmospheric phenomena, improves the product decorative properties and protects the treated surface for a long time.

As the paint is available in a spray can it is easy to apply on large and even surfaces as well as on relief products with many small decorative elements.

Technical characteristics:

texture - glossy;
Dries in 4 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Advantages

easy application due to can with sprayer;
easy to apply to any surface, including vertical;
low price;
a wide choice of colors.

Cons

The one-coat coating is not strong enough;
Small canister volume.

Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch Ultra Cover 2X

This universal alkyd-based paint comes in a huge variety of colors, So it is suitable for a wide range of internal and external painting works.

The balanced composition of the product allows you to get a premium coating with increased resistance to temperature fluctuations, precipitation and other weather phenomena.

After complete drying the paint forms a high quality silky coating with increased resistance to abrasion.

The product also boasts excellent adhesion, so the paint can be applied not only to metal, but to almost any other surface.

Because the product comes in a handy spray can, the paint is very easy to apply even on small parts or surfaces with many decorative elements.

Please note that the maximum adhesion properties are reached one week after application, although the drying time is only 4 hours.

Technical characteristics:

texture - glossy;
Dries in 4 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Pros of

rich color palette;
suitable for application on plastic and wood;
the composition includes a primer for leveling the surface;
easy application due to the sprayer;
increased wear resistance of the coating.

Disadvantages

some users consider the price to be overpriced;
small tank volume.

KUDO Rust Enamel with Hammer

This alkyd enamel contains special anti-corrosion components and silicones. Substances of the first type block rusted areas and prevent further spread of corrosion.

The inclusion of silicones in the paint ensures quick and even application and distribution of the paint.

Although the product is designed for painting metal products, it can also be used on wood and plastic, but only after priming.

Because the paint already contains a primer and special finishing components, it takes very little time to achieve a good protective layer.

A short drying time also reduces the time of work. The paint comes in a small spray can, so the paint can be applied even in hard-to-reach places.

Technical characteristics:

texture - glossy;
drying - in 4 hours;
type of coating - hiding.

Advantages

spray can with a sprayer provides a convenient application;
low consumption;
a wide color palette;
Silicones in the composition provide a uniform application;
low odor.

Disadvantages

Takes a week to fully cure;
not very bright colors.

Which brand should I choose?

Rust paints are produced by the same companies that produce the usual treatment formulations.

We have analyzed user reviews and expert advice, and compiled a rating of the best manufacturers of rust-proof paints according to 2021-2022.

The list includes Tikkurila, DALI, EkoHom, Goodhim, NEOMID, Alpina, Dufa and KUDO.

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