Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer for Steel, Iron & Timber 22.0 kg

Q: What surfaces can Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer be applied to?

This primer adheres to mild steel, cast iron, aluminium, galvanised steel (after etching), hardwood timber, plywood, prepared concrete, and masonry. It creates a rust-inhibiting base for solvent-based topcoats on both new and previously painted metal.

Q: Do I need to use a topcoat after applying the primer?

Yes, for full weather and impact resistance, apply a compatible solvent-based enamel, polyurethane, or machinery paint after the primer has dried. The primer is designed to provide strong adhesion and anti-corrosive protection beneath the finishing coat.

Q: How many coats of primer should I apply?

Generally, one thin, even coat is sufficient for properly prepared steel. For highly porous or heavily rusted surfaces, a second light coat may be applied after 6–8 hours to improve sealing and build.

Q: Can I use this primer on galvanised metal?

Yes, but the surface must first be lightly etched or treated with a suitable mordant solution to improve adhesion. Direct application on smooth galvanised steel may lead to poor bonding.

Q: What is the drying and recoat time?

At 18 °C, the primer is touch dry in 6–8 hours and ready for a solvent-based topcoat after the same period. Full cure and maximum corrosion protection develop after 7 days.

Q: Is thinning required before spraying?

Not always. The primer can be sprayed directly from the tin, but if the sprayer struggles to atomise, thin with up to 15% white spirit. Add small amounts gradually to maintain film build and rust protection.

Q: How should I prepare bare or rusty metal?

Remove loose rust, grease, and dirt by wire brushing or sandblasting. Wipe with a degreaser to eliminate contaminants, then ensure the surface is completely dry and dust-free before priming.

Q: Can I use this primer on timber or masonry?

Yes, it can be applied to hardwood timber, plywood, and prepared masonry or concrete as long as the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust. It provides a strong bonding layer for solvent-based topcoats.

Q: How should I store the primer?

Keep tins tightly sealed in a cool, well-ventilated area between 5 °C and 30 °C, away from direct sunlight and open flames. Proper storage ensures maximum shelf life and maintains the primer’s viscosity.

Q: Is Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer flammable?

Yes, this is a solvent-based product and contains flammable components. Apply in well-ventilated areas, keep away from sparks or ignition sources, and always wear gloves and a respirator during use.

Manufactured by Paint Master

Why Choose Our Products?

Industrial solvent-based metal primer with anti-corrosive pigments

Blocks rust resists moisture and corrosion

Brush roll or spray application for ease of use

Semi-shine grey or red metal oxide primer finish

Touch-dry 6–8 h recoat same day for fast project turnaround

Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer is a professional-grade, long-oil polyurethane coating enriched with anti-corrosive metal oxide pigments. Designed to penetrate and seal bare steel, aluminium, cast iron, and hardwood timber, it forms a durable barrier against rust, corrosion, and surface degradation.

Its semi-shine finish maximises adhesion for subsequent solvent-based enamels, machinery paints, and polyurethane topcoats, making it ideal for industrial fabricators, skip builders, maintenance workshops, and DIY restoration projects.

The primer’s high-solids formulation delivers excellent flow, self-leveling properties, and a slightly flexible finish to accommodate metal expansion, reducing the risk of cracking or flaking. It can be applied by brush, roller, or spray (HVLP or airless), and may be thinned up to 15% with white spirit for spray applications only. Once cured, it sands easily to produce a super-smooth base for topcoats.

Manufactured under ISO 9001 quality standards in the UK, Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer is available in Grey and Red oxide primer colours, supplied in 5 L, 10 L, and 20 L tins to suit small repairs or large-scale industrial projects. This versatile primer provides long-lasting corrosion resistance while preparing substrates for a flawless finish with a wide range of compatible coatings.

Suitable Substrates

Mild steel, cast iron, galvanised steel (after etching)
Aluminium
Hardwood timber, plywood
Prepared concrete, masonry
Not suitable for plastic

Colours Available

Grey
Red
Custom BS 4800 / RAL shades available on orders ≥ 100 L

Coverage & Spread Rate

6–8 m² per litre per coat on smooth steel surfaces

Drying & Curing Times (@ 18 °C)

Touch dry: 6–8 hours
Recoat: 6–8 hours
Handle: 24 hours
Full cure: 7 days

Storage & Clean-Up

Store sealed between 5–30 °C away from flames or ignition sources
Clean brushes, rollers, and spray equipment with white spirit before the paint sets

Batch & Delivery

Order full required volume in one batch for consistent colour
During peak demand, tins may arrive plain with Trade Supplies UK labels; performance is unchanged

Safety Notice

Flammable solvent-based primer; use in well-ventilated areas
Keep away from sparks, heat, and open flames
Wear gloves, protective eyewear, and a respirator if spraying
Keep out of reach of children
Dispose of waste responsibly and consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Surface Preparation

Degrease: Remove oil, grease, and dirt from all surfaces.
Rust Removal: Power-brush or sandblast any rusted areas to expose bare metal.
Old Coatings: Strip flaking or poorly bonded paint to ensure proper adhesion.
Drying: Ensure all surfaces are completely dry and dust-free before priming.

Mixing

Stir Thoroughly: Use a paddle or mechanical mixer for at least 2 minutes, scraping the sides and bottom to ensure uniform pigment and resin distribution.

Application Method

Brush or Roller: Apply a thin, even coat (~50 µm dry film thickness) across the entire surface.
Spray: HVLP or airless spray may be used; thin with up to 15% white spirit if required for atomisation.
Multiple Coats: Avoid heavy coats to prevent runs or sagging; several thin coats are preferable for optimal coverage.

Drying & Recoat

Recoat: Allow 6–8 hours at 18 °C before applying a compatible solvent-based topcoat.

Sanding: If more than 48 hours have passed, lightly sand the primer to ensure adhesion.

Curing

Full Protection: The primer provides complete corrosion resistance after 7 days.

Weather Protection: Shield the coated surface from rain or moisture for the first 24 hours.

Recommended Uses

Industrial steel fabrication and metalwork
Skip and container building or maintenance
Rust-prone metal structures and machinery
DIY restoration of metal furniture, gates, and railings
Preparation for solvent-based enamels, polyurethane coatings, and machinery paints

Property	Value
Components	1-part single pack
Base	Long-oil polyurethane resin (solvent-based)
Finish	Semi-shine metal oxide finish
Recommended coats	1 (build up in severe conditions)
Wet film thickness	100 µm (≈ 50 µm DFT)
Coverage	6–8 m² / L / coat
Touch dry	6–8 h @ 18 °C
Recoat window	6–8 h @ 18 °C
Full cure	7 days

Property	Value
Application tools	Brush, roller, HVLP, airless sprayer
Clean-up	White spirit / standard thinner
Shelf life	24 months unopened
Pack sizes	5 L, 10 L, 20 L
Colour options	Grey, Red
Interior / exterior	Both
Suitable substrates	Steel, wood, concrete, masonry
VOC	< 450 g/L
Primer required	Acts as anti-corrosive primer; topcoat with compatible solvent paints

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Frequently Asked Questions

What surfaces can Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer be applied to?

This primer adheres to mild steel, cast iron, aluminium, galvanised steel (after etching), hardwood timber, plywood, prepared concrete, and masonry. It creates a rust-inhibiting base for solvent-based topcoats on both new and previously painted metal.

Do I need to use a topcoat after applying the primer?

Yes, for full weather and impact resistance, apply a compatible solvent-based enamel, polyurethane, or machinery paint after the primer has dried. The primer is designed to provide strong adhesion and anti-corrosive protection beneath the finishing coat.

How many coats of primer should I apply?

Generally, one thin, even coat is sufficient for properly prepared steel. For highly porous or heavily rusted surfaces, a second light coat may be applied after 6–8 hours to improve sealing and build.

Can I use this primer on galvanised metal?

Yes, but the surface must first be lightly etched or treated with a suitable mordant solution to improve adhesion. Direct application on smooth galvanised steel may lead to poor bonding.

What is the drying and recoat time?

At 18 °C, the primer is touch dry in 6–8 hours and ready for a solvent-based topcoat after the same period. Full cure and maximum corrosion protection develop after 7 days.

Is thinning required before spraying?

Not always. The primer can be sprayed directly from the tin, but if the sprayer struggles to atomise, thin with up to 15% white spirit. Add small amounts gradually to maintain film build and rust protection.

How should I prepare bare or rusty metal?

Remove loose rust, grease, and dirt by wire brushing or sandblasting. Wipe with a degreaser to eliminate contaminants, then ensure the surface is completely dry and dust-free before priming.

Can I use this primer on timber or masonry?

Yes, it can be applied to hardwood timber, plywood, and prepared masonry or concrete as long as the surface is clean, dry, and free from dust. It provides a strong bonding layer for solvent-based topcoats.

How should I store the primer?

Keep tins tightly sealed in a cool, well-ventilated area between 5 °C and 30 °C, away from direct sunlight and open flames. Proper storage ensures maximum shelf life and maintains the primer’s viscosity.

Is Paintmaster Metal Oxide Primer flammable?

Yes, this is a solvent-based product and contains flammable components. Apply in well-ventilated areas, keep away from sparks or ignition sources, and always wear gloves and a respirator during use.

Can I sand the primer before topcoating?

Yes, once dry, the primer can be lightly sanded to create a smooth surface and enhance adhesion for the final topcoat, especially if more than 48 hours have passed since application.

What colours are available?

It is supplied in Red Oxide and Grey as standard, with custom BS 4800 and RAL colours available on bulk orders of 100 litres or more for large-scale projects requiring specific shades.

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£137.95 (inc VAT)

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Delivery within 24 to 48 hours

Size

20 Litres 10 Litres 5 Litres

Colour

Grey Red

Product variants

*subject to stock levels at the time of your order.