Top 5 Best Cold Galvanizing Paints (2023 Review)

Last Updated On September 22, 2023

If you need to refinish some metal or steel that’s rusted or in need of a new coat, cold galvanizing paints are your best bet.

This zinc-rich paint is meant to cover up blemishes or inconsistencies in your metal’s finish. 

So, if you’re starting your next DIY project soon and want to find the best cold galvanized paint, you’re in the right place.

Best Cold Galvanizing Paints

In this ProPaintCorner.com guide, you will learn the following:

  • What cold galvanized paint is 
  • The different types of cold galvanized paints
  • How to choose the right paint for your project
  • And much more!

Below is a quick list of all our top products. Keep scrolling to learn more about how to choose and use cold galvanizing paint.

Image Product

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ZRC 10001 Cold Galvanizing Compound
  • Super durable
  • Versatile application styles
  • Meets VOC standards in all 50 states
  • Super durable
  • Versatile application styles
  • Meets VOC standards in all 50 states
View on Amazon

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LPS 00516 Cold Galvanize Corrosion Inhibitor
  • Inexpensive
  • Versatile
  • Sprays on for easy application
  • Inexpensive
  • Versatile
  • Sprays on for easy application
View on Amazon

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Rust-Oleum Cold Galvanizing Compound
  • Extremely durable
  • Works well on pre-galvanized steel
  • Versatile application methods
  • Extremely durable
  • Works well on pre-galvanized steel
  • Versatile application methods
View on Amazon

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Rust-Oleum Cold Galvanizing Compound Gloss Protective Enamel
  • Easy Application
  • No Top Coat Necessary
  • Easy Application
  • No Top Coat Necessary
View on Amazon

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Seymour 16-842 Galvanized Coatings Spray Paint
  • Crack Resistant
  • Can be used on chain links and fences
  • Easy to use and apply
  • Crack Resistant
  • Can be used on chain links and fences
  • Easy to use and apply
View on Amazon

Our Overall #1 Rated Pick

Updated On September 22, 2023

Our top pick is the ZRC Cold Galvanizing Compound, because this thing can galvanize just about anything.

 

No matter if you need a roll on, spray on, or paint-on compound, this thing has you covered. While it doesn’t list a specific dry-time for this compound, you can expect to be able to put a second coat on within 12 hours. 

 

Plus, this stuff doesn’t have a temperature application limit, so no matter what environment you’re working in this should work for you.

Top 5 Best Cold Galvanizing Paints

How Do The Best Cold Galvanizing Paints Work?

Put simply, cold galvanizing paint is a zinc-rich paint that is meant to protect metal surfaces from corrosion and rust.

While it doesn’t offer the same durability and protection as hot-dip galvanizing — which must be done by professionals, often in a factory or forge setting — it’s still remarkably useful.

Cold galvanizing paint is often used in auto-body work, but it can be applied  to metal surfaces of all kinds to refinish them, repair corrosion, or simply give items that are worse-for-wear a new life.

What Are The Different Types of Cold Galvanizing Paints? 

Cold galvanizing paint can be used in several different forms, but the main type used is cold galvanizing spray paint since it’s easier to work with, especially on metal.

However, you can find cold galvanizing paint by the gallon and choose to roll or paint it on by hand. Depending on the project, that can be a great option to ensure proper coating and finish.

We’ll offer several different types of galvanizing paints in our reviews below.

Did You Know: Cold galvanizing paint is rich in zinc which allows it to bind to metal.  However, this isn't as strong as hot-galvanization which binds much better.

What To Look For In The Best Cold Galvanizing Paint?

When it comes to choosing the right cold galvanizing paint for you, you need to think about longevity, wear-and-tear, and the current condition of the object you’re working with.

Some paints are better than others at covering rust and corrosion, and some paints are better at maintaining a strong finish for the long-run. 

That’s why it’s important to carefully consider the project you’re working on before you select the right paint for you. For instance, if you’re working on cars or vehicles, you’re going to look for ease of application and durability. 

Whereas if you’re looking to refinish some patio furniture that’s starting to rust, you’ll want to find a paint that can not only adhere to and cover that rust, but also withstand the elements to some degree.

Reviews Of The Best Cold Galvanizing Paint

Pick #1: ZRC 10001 Cold Galvanizing Compound

Our top pick is the ZRC Cold Galvanizing Compound, because this thing can galvanize just about anything.

No matter if you need a roll on, spray on, or paint-on compound, this thing has you covered. While it doesn’t list a specific dry-time for this compound, you can expect to be able to put a second coat on within 12 hours. 

Plus, this stuff doesn’t have a temperature application limit, so no matter what environment you’re working in this should work for you.

Pros

  • Super durable
  • Versatile application styles
  • Meets VOC standards in all 50 states

Cons

  • Higher-than-average price
  • Offers a better finish when brushed on
  • Requires thorough mixing before use

Pick #2: LPS 00516 Cold Galvanize Corrosion Inhibitor

If you’re not looking to break the budget but you still want to get an excellent finish, this LPS Cold Galvanize Corrosion Inhibitor will do the trick.

This stuff is lightweight, but don’t let that fool you. It’s incredibly powerful and able to halt corrosion in even the harshest environments.

Plus, it can be used both indoors and outdoors. And for less than $20 a can, you can’t go wrong.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Versatile
  • Sprays on for easy application

Cons

  • Nozzle can be finicky
  • Only comes in small amounts per can
  • Not as heavy duty as a brush-on paint

Pick #3: Rust-Oleum Cold Galvanizing Compound

If you’re willing to spring for the good stuff, this Rust-Oleum Cold Galvanizing Compound is worth it.

This compound is truly meant to offer a high performance in any environment you throw at it. 

If you’re already working with galvanized steel, this stuff will stick no problem. Plus, it dries in 30 minutes to an hour, so your next project will be quick and easy.

Pros

  • Extremely durable
  • Works well on pre-galvanized steel
  • Versatile application methods

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Color can vary at times

Our fourth pick is a fantastic starter kit for your next project.

This little 12 oz. can of spray paint packs a huge punch, and you can’t go wrong with Rust-Oleum which has been a trusted industry brand for decades.

This spray on galvanizing compound is super easy and quick to apply and it works in plenty of different situations. 

It’s ideal for fences, steel, and sheet metal, but no matter what your next project is, this will stop the rust and protect it for a long time to come.

Pros

  • Easy Application
  • No Top Coat Necessary
  • 93% zinc

Cons

  • Only sold in 12 oz. spray cans
  • Pricey

Last but not least, this Seymour Galvanized Coatings Spray Paint is a fantastic choice for your next project, especially if you’re working with non-traditional surfaces. 

Seymour can be applied directly onto fences or chains to help fight rust and strengthen your finish. If you’ve got some outdoor projects on the list and you don’t want to break the bank, this is your new go-to.

Pros

  • Crack Resistant
  • Can be used on chain links and fences
  • Easy to use and apply

Cons

  • Only 65% zinc
  • Best for touch-up work

Our Top Pick: ZRC 10001 Cold Galvanizing Compound

ZRC 10001 Cold Galvanizing Compound can galvanize just about anything.

It contains 95% zinc, which makes it one of the best cold galvanized paints available. In fact, it's been tested to withstand up to 3,000 hours of salt-spray testing without failure. 

It comes in aerosol or liquid form and either flat or bright finishes. 

Dry-time for this compound is less than 12 hours, and it doesn’t have a temperature application limit.

Plus, it’s an excellent value for the money! Check-out the low price now...

Final Thoughts On The Best Cold Galvanizing Paint

If you’ve got some metal that needs refinishing or you’re looking to fight back rust and corrosion, cold galvanized paint is an essential addition to your workshop. 

As long as you choose a durable option that will withstand the test of time — and the elements you’re new project will be facing — it’s hard to go wrong with any of the paints on this list.

Read More >> Top 5 Exterior Primer Paints

Meet Your Pro Paint Corner Author

Madison Rude

Madison Rude

I’m kind of a painting nerd. My mom taught me how to paint when I was nine, and since then I’ve painted rooms, furniture...you name it. I’ve written technical advice for Wagner sprayers, and I’ve spent a lot of time DIYing my own home. I’m no expert, but I love to learn. And here at ProPaintCorner, I learn more about painting every time I work with one of our painting pros to bring you the best product reviews and How To advice available. Together, let’s make your next painting project the best it can be!

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Madison Rude

Madison Rude

I’m kind of a painting nerd. My mom taught me how to paint when I was nine, and since then I’ve painted rooms, furniture...you name it. I’ve written technical advice for Wagner sprayers, and I’ve spent a lot of time DIYing my own home. I’m no expert, but I love to learn. And here at ProPaintCorner, I learn more about painting every time I work with one of our painting pros to bring you the best product reviews and How To advice available. Together, let’s make your next painting project the best it can be!

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