Varnish for metal: varieties, properties and applications

Metal is a fairly durable material with excellent performance characteristics. However, even metal structures are susceptible to negative factors and can quickly deteriorate. To protect such products, special means are produced. One of the most reliable protective coatings is varnish. The varieties, properties and applications of this material will be discussed in more detail in this article.

Manufacturers of paint and varnish coatings produce quite a few varieties of varnish for metal. Each type of such product will have its own technical characteristics.

All metal varnishes have common qualities:

• the composition of this material necessarily includes substances that protect the metal from corrosion;
• the coating created by the varnish is highly durable and wear-resistant;
• mixtures not only create a durable coating, but also extend the service life of metal structures;
• well protect the surface from moisture and other negative external manifestations.

On the modern market of finishing materials, there are many varnishes, different in composition and properties, which can be used to protect metal surfaces.

The classification of mixtures is as follows:

• "Kuzbasslak" or bituminous varnish;
• coating based on polyurethane;
• acrylic-based varnish;
• alkyd mixtures;
• heat-resistant solutions for stoves and fireplaces;
• varnish "Tsapon".

Metal varnishes are produced mainly in the form of a clear solution. However, there are black and colored mixtures, and pigments can be added to some types of colorless formulations.

In addition to the shade, paints and varnishes differ in the level of gloss of the created coating:

• matte;
• semi-matte;
• shiny glossy finish;
• semi-glossy;
• high glossy.

Two-component mixtures are divided into base and hardener. To prepare the solution, the components must be mixed with each other. This must be done immediately before starting repair work.

Kuzbasslak is made on the basis of natural or artificial bitumen. To improve the technical characteristics of the coating, special additives are used in the production of the mixture. After drying of such a mixture, a strong film forms on the metal surface, which protects the structure from mechanical stress.

Bituminous varnish can be used in the metal pickling process. Those areas that are not subject to etching must be covered with Kuzbasslak. The resulting film will reliably protect the treated surface from the effects of chemicals.

Bituminous mixtures, in turn, are divided into several more subspecies, differing in some of the components contained. Some of the characteristics of the solutions may vary, depending on the composition.

All types of bituminous solutions have the following positive properties:

• small price;
• excellent anti-corrosion performance;
• high level of protection against moisture;

• the mixture creates a high-strength coating;
• elasticity and firmness;
• resistance to temperature extremes.

Polyurethane varnish is often used to create a reliable protective coating on the inside of various metal containers and tanks. This material can also be used for finishing metal structures indoors and outdoors.

Among the advantages of the mixture are the following qualities:

• high level of adhesion;
• excellent wear resistance;
• reliable protection against corrosion;

• withstands a wide range of temperatures: from minus sixty to plus eighty degrees;
• resistance to aggressive environments;
• high strength of the created coating;
• increases the service life of metal structures.

The colorless polyurethane-based mixture can be combined with dyes to obtain the desired color. This coating is often used as a finish.

Acrylic-based mixtures are not inferior in quality to other varnishes for metal. One of the distinctive features of acrylic compounds is the high drying rate of the coating.

After drying, the varnish forms a very durable waterproof film on metal structures. Due to these properties, the mixture is ideal for processing metal products that are operated in conditions of high air humidity or often come into contact with water.

Acrylic varnish has the following advantages:

• there are no toxic substances in the material;
• strengthens the surface and increases the service life of metal products;
• resistance to mechanical stress;
• fireproof;

• prevents the appearance of corrosion;
• resistance to the effects of salts and oils, due to which it is often used for coating cars;
• protects metal structures from the influence of negative environmental factors;
• excellent adhesion performance.

Alkyd varnishes form a durable glossy coating on the surface. This solution is made on the basis of alkyd resins with the addition of various additives. The release form depends on the manufacturer of the material. On the construction market, you can find alkyd varnish in the form of an aerosol can or in an ordinary can.

The following advantages of such coverage are distinguished:

• after the varnish dries, a high-strength protective film forms on the surface;
• resistance to household chemicals and other aggressive substances;
• suitable for construction work both indoors and outdoors;

• heat resistant;
• waterproof;
• high adhesion to many materials.

Heat-resistant mixture for stoves and fireplaces withstands high temperatures (over two hundred and fifty degrees). This mixture is often used as an additive to alkyd varnishes and acrylic based solutions. Furnace varnish creates a reliable anti-corrosion protective coating.

The mixture "Tsapon" is a kind of nitro lacquer. The solution creates not only a durable protective coating, but also decorates the surface, since colored pigments can be added to its composition. With the addition of certain coloring agents, the consistency of the varnish can become thicker, like a liquid gel.

This type of nitro varnish can be used for metal priming. Primer "Tsapon" prevents the formation of rust and perfectly protects the surface from destruction.

Before making a choice in favor of this or that varnish for metal, it is necessary to take into account many factors.

When choosing a suitable coating, you can use the following recommendations:

• Explore our range of metal coating mixes. Each type of varnish has its own characteristics and technical characteristics.
• Consider the area of ​​application of the paintwork material.Mixtures for outdoor use must have good moisture resistance and resistance to temperature extremes.
• The desired color of the coating. In the modern building materials market, you can find not only transparent varnishes for metal, but also pigmented options.
• The desired gloss level of the finished coating. The matte surface is easier to maintain. A glossy finish looks more attractive, but not very practical, as it is prone to various dirt and scratches, which will be clearly visible on a shiny surface.

• In order for your chosen varnish to meet all the declared characteristics and allow you to create a strong and durable coating, you must definitely read the instructions for applying the mixture. Each type of varnish for metal requires special application recommendations.

• The process of preparing a metal surface before starting work does not depend on the specific type of varnish and primarily consists in a good cleaning of the base. The metal structure is cleaned of dust, dirt and rust, and then degreased. You can apply varnish with a paintbrush, spray gun or spray can (if you purchased an aerosol).
• Typically, the metal solution is applied in three layers. After applying each subsequent layer, it is necessary to take a break in order for the previous one to dry. Drying time must be observed on the packaging of the material.

How to apply varnish, see the video below.