Rust-Oleum

Spread Rate: ~300–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; heavy-duty pigmentation provides deep coverage even on dark metal surfaces.

Application: Smooth flow with superior leveling; can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed; oil-based formula requires mineral spirits for cleanup.

Washability: Exceptional; oil-based finish is non-porous and stands up to heavy power washing and chemical cleaners.

Durability: Industrial-grade; maximum rust prevention and resistance to abrasion, fading, and chipping in harsh environments.

VOC/Odor: Higher VOC content; strong solvent odor during application; requires proper ventilation.

Best Use: Industrial machinery, metal railings, pipes, ladders, fencing, and exterior heavy-duty equipment.

Pros: Unmatched rust protection; extremely durable finish; excellent adhesion to metal; long-lasting weather resistance.

Cons: Long dry time (up to 24 hours for recoat); strong odor; requires solvent for cleaning tools.

Verdict: The gold standard for metal protection—this oil-based enamel offers a rugged, professional finish that stops rust in its tracks and outlasts standard paints in industrial settings.

Spread Rate: ~300–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Good; designed as a ready-to-use formula that provides consistent coverage for standard color changes.

Application: Smooth and user-friendly; minimal spatter and easy cleanup with soap and water; includes primer for most surfaces.

Washability: Highly washable; the eggshell finish is designed to withstand routine scrubbing and household stains.

Durability: Durable; provides a resilient film that holds up well in typical residential environments.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; low odor during and after application, making it suitable for occupied indoor spaces.

Best Use: Bedrooms, living rooms, dining areas, and general residential interior walls.

Pros: Convenient pre-mixed colors; highly scrubbable; paint and primer in one; affordable DIY option.

Cons: Limited to pre-mixed color palette; may require two coats for significant color transitions or high-contrast hides.

Verdict: A practical and efficient choice for DIYers looking for a dependable, easy-to-apply interior paint with excellent washability for everyday living spaces.

Spread Rate: ~30–50 sq ft/quart.

Hide: Excellent; thick, textured formula effectively covers minor surface imperfections and provides a multi-dimensional look.

Application: Unique brush-on technique; requires cross-hatch strokes to achieve a natural concrete aesthetic; water-based for easy cleanup.

Washability: Fair; the textured surface is designed for aesthetics rather than frequent scrubbing; best for accent areas.

Durability: Moderate; provides a tough, tactile finish that resists fading and wear in low-to-medium traffic areas.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; minimal odor during application, making it safe for indoor residential use.

Best Use: Accent walls, fireplace surrounds, home offices, and modern industrial-style interiors.

Pros: Authentic concrete look and feel; masks surface flaws; easy one-step application; unique decorative finish.

Cons: Low spread rate due to thickness; requires specific brushing technique for best results; difficult to touch up seamlessly.

Verdict: A specialized decorative coating that brings a sophisticated industrial vibe to interior spaces—ideal for creating a high-impact accent wall with minimal effort.

Spread Rate: ~300–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; one-coat coverage designed to mask water stains and household discoloration.

Application: Unique color-changing formula (applies pink, dries white) ensures no missed spots; low spatter and smooth flow.

Washability: Minimal; ultra-flat finish is designed to hide imperfections rather than withstand scrubbing.

Durability: High for ceilings; mold and mildew resistant finish protects against moisture in problematic areas.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; water-based formula with low odor during application.

Best Use: Kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and any ceiling with existing water stains or high humidity.

Pros: Built-in stain blocker; color-change indicator; mildew resistant; excellent hide for imperfections.

Cons: Pink indicator can be tricky in low-light areas; not intended for high-contact wall surfaces.

Verdict: A specialized, high-performance ceiling solution that eliminates the need for separate priming—perfect for tackling stained or moisture-prone ceilings with professional accuracy.

Spread Rate: ~350–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Very good; self-priming formula provides consistent coverage and blocks light surface stains.

Application: Smooth and creamy consistency; low spatter; applies easily with brush, roller, or sprayer; self-priming on most surfaces.

Washability: Exceptional; specifically designed to withstand scrubbing in high-moisture environments without damaging the film.

Durability: Premium; guaranteed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film for 5 years; moisture-resistant.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; low odor during application, making it ideal for small, enclosed spaces like bathrooms.

Best Use: Bathrooms, kitchens, basements, laundry rooms, and any interior area prone to high humidity or moisture.

Pros: Guaranteed mildew protection; self-priming; highly washable; excellent adhesion in damp conditions.

Cons: More expensive than standard interior paints; requires 24 hours of dry time before exposing to heavy steam/moisture.

Verdict: The ultimate problem-solver for moisture-prone areas—this specialized coating provides a beautiful finish while ensuring long-term protection against mold and mildew growth.

Spread Rate: ~400–450 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; formulated to provide a uniform finish over existing wood and laminate surfaces with minimal coats.

Application: Superior leveling and flow; resists brush marks for a factory-like finish; water-based formula allows for easy soap and water cleanup.

Washability: Outstanding; cured film is hard and smooth, allowing for repeated scrubbing of grease and household stains.

Durability: High; scuff and scratch-resistant finish designed to withstand the daily impact and handling of cabinetry.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; very low odor during application, making it ideal for kitchen and bathroom renovations.

Best Use: Kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, trim, baseboards, and interior furniture.

Pros: Professional factory-look finish; excellent flow and leveling; quick dry time; no primer required on most surfaces.

Cons: Limited to a semi-gloss finish; requires thorough surface prep (cleaning/degloss) for maximum adhesion.

Verdict: An easy-to-use, high-durability coating that transforms dated cabinetry with a smooth, washable finish that rivals professional spray jobs.

Spread Rate: ~400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; high-adhesion base coat designed to cover tile, vinyl, wood, and concrete without the need for sanding or priming.

Application: Smooth and easy two-step system; applies quickly with a roller or brush; water-based formula for easy soap and water cleanup.

Washability: Exceptional; once sealed with the required topcoat, the surface is highly resistant to common household cleaners and chemicals.

Durability: High-performance; "Life Tested" formula resists scuffing, scratching, and fading even in high-traffic areas.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; low odor during application, allowing for use in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms while occupied.

Best Use: Updating outdated floor tile, linoleum, vinyl plank, hardwood, or laminate in residential interiors.

Pros: No stripping, sanding, or priming required; walk on in one day; superior adhesion to difficult surfaces.

Cons: Requires a mandatory two-step process (Base Coat + Top Coat); must be tinted before use; interior use only.

Verdict: A revolutionary floor-transformation system that provides a durable, professional-grade finish on almost any interior surface with minimal prep work.

Spread Rate: ~400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: N/A; this is a clear protective topcoat designed to seal and finish the specific base coat system.

Application: Easy, smooth application with a nap roller; water-based formula allows for simple soap and water cleanup.

Washability: Exceptional; creates a non-porous barrier that is highly resistant to household chemicals and frequent cleaning.

Durability: High-performance; engineered for maximum scratch and stain resistance to protect the underlying color in high-traffic areas.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; minimal odor during application, making it safe for indoor residential use in kitchens and bathrooms.

Best Use: The final step for interior floor projects including tile, vinyl, wood, laminate, and concrete.

Pros: "Life Tested" for extreme durability; walk on in one day; easy to apply; available in multiple sheens to customize the look.

Cons: Mandatory second step of a two-part system; must be applied over the specific matching base coat for proper adhesion.

Verdict: A critical finishing layer that provides industrial-grade protection and a professional sheen to transformed interior floors.

Spread Rate: ~300–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; urethane-fortified acrylic provides a high-opacity finish that covers in fewer coats.

Application: Paint and primer in one; smooth, even coverage that resists sagging; water-based for easy cleanup with soap and water.

Washability: High; designed to be easily cleaned of dirt, mud, and typical outdoor debris.

Durability: Superior; specifically formulated to resist scuffing, fading, cracking, and peeling in weather-exposed areas.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; suitable for both interior and exterior applications with minimal odor.

Best Use: Porches, patios, walkways, basement floors, and laundry rooms.

Pros: Highly durable urethane formula; UV resistant; no separate primer needed; safe for wood or concrete.

Cons: Requires 24 hours for light foot traffic; not intended for garage floors or vehicle traffic.

Verdict: A versatile and rugged coating that offers long-lasting protection and a fresh satin finish for high-traffic interior and exterior floors.

Spread Rate: ~150–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: N/A; this is a clear, non-yellowing protective topcoat designed to seal and enhance bare or coated concrete.

Application: Smooth, consistent flow; resists bubbling and streaks; water-based formula allows for easy cleanup with soap and water.

Washability: Exceptional; creates a rugged, non-porous surface that resists oil, gas, and chemical spills; can be power washed.

Durability: High-performance; hot tire and chemical resistant; UV and weather-resistant formula prevents fading and peeling in exterior settings.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; minimal odor during application, making it suitable for both interior garages and outdoor driveways.

Best Use: Garages, driveways, porches, patios, and basements.

Pros: Drive-on ready in 5 days; non-yellowing clear finish; superior hot tire resistance; enhances longevity of undercoats.

Cons: Requires thorough surface cleaning for proper adhesion; cannot be applied over freshly poured concrete (must cure for 28 days).

Verdict: A premium, heavy-duty protective layer that provides a high-gloss, professional finish while defending high-traffic concrete surfaces against the toughest elements.

Spread Rate: ~15–25 sq ft/can.

Hide: Excellent; high-output spray provides thorough, opaque coverage and superior color retention on metal and wood.

Application: Advanced 5-in-1 dial system allows for adjustable spray patterns (High, Medium, Low, Vertical, and Horizontal); ergonomic trigger prevents finger fatigue; oil-based formula.

Washability: Exceptional; creates a hard, non-porous surface that is resistant to household cleaners and heavy scrubbing.

Durability: Industrial-grade; features a specialized formula that stops rust and provides maximum resistance to chipping, fading, and abrasion.

VOC/Odor: Higher VOC; strong solvent odor during application; must be used outdoors or in a very well-ventilated area.

Best Use: Patio furniture, railings, bikes, automotive parts, and small metal or wood DIY projects.

Pros: Adjustable spray nozzle for custom control; ultimate rust protection; fast-drying; no primer needed on most surfaces.

Cons: Strong solvent odor; requires careful technique to avoid drips; single-can coverage is limited for large projects.

Verdict: A versatile and highly durable spray coating that offers professional-grade rust protection with an innovative adjustable nozzle for total project control.

Spread Rate: ~250–300 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Semi-transparent; high-performance pigments provide rich, even color while allowing the natural wood grain to show through.

Application: Smooth and easy to control; advanced formula prevents blotching and ensures deep penetration; oil-based formula requires mineral spirits for cleanup.

Washability: N/A; as a penetrating stain, the surface must be sealed with a clear topcoat for washability and protection.

Durability: High; provides long-lasting, deep-seated color that resists fading and wear once properly sealed.

VOC/Odor: Higher VOC; traditional oil-based solvent odor; requires use in well-ventilated areas.

Best Use: Bare or stripped interior wood furniture, cabinets, doors, trim, and paneling.

Pros: Dries in 2 hours; no wood conditioner required on most woods; buildable coverage for expert color control; rich, professional-grade results.

Cons: Requires mineral spirits for cleanup; must be topcoated for protection; higher odor compared to water-based stains.

Verdict: A fast-drying, high-pigment stain that delivers rich, consistent color with half the wait time of traditional oil-based products.

Spread Rate: ~500–600 sq ft/gal.

Hide: N/A; clear protective topcoat designed to enhance wood grain without obscuring it.

Application: Self-leveling formula minimizes brush marks; applies smoothly with a high-quality natural bristle brush; oil-based formula requires mineral spirits for cleanup.

Washability: Exceptional; creates a hard, glass-like barrier that is highly resistant to water, alcohol, and common household chemicals.

Durability: Maximum; provides superior scratch and scuff resistance for long-lasting protection of interior wood surfaces.

VOC/Odor: Higher VOC; traditional oil-based solvent odor; requires significant ventilation during application and curing.

Best Use: Furniture, doors, trim, and cabinets; not recommended for floors.

Pros: Professional-grade durability; fast dry time for an oil-based product; non-yellowing formula; provides a rich, warm glow to wood.

Cons: Strong odor; requires solvent cleanup; slower dry time than water-based alternatives.

Verdict: A premium, heavy-duty clear coat that offers the classic depth of an oil-based finish with modern fast-drying technology for ultimate wood protection.

Spread Rate: ~400–500 sq ft/gal.

Hide: N/A; crystal clear protective topcoat designed to protect wood while preserving its natural color.

Application: Superior flow and leveling; resists brush marks; ultra-fast drying formula allows for multiple coats in one day; soap and water cleanup.

Washability: Exceptional; creates a tough, non-porous barrier that is highly resistant to water, stains, and household chemicals.

Durability: Maximum; provides the highest level of scratch and scuff resistance available in a water-based formula.

VOC/Odor: Very Low VOC; minimal odor during application, making it perfect for indoor projects in occupied homes.

Best Use: Furniture, cabinets, doors, trim, and indoor wood crafts.

Pros: Dries to the touch in 30 minutes; non-yellowing crystal clear finish; easy water cleanup; low odor.

Cons: Requires more coats than oil-based versions for the same depth; can dry too fast in hot or breezy conditions.

Verdict: The best choice for a fast, durable, and crystal-clear finish that won’t yellow over time or linger with heavy solvent odors.

Spread Rate: ~250 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; "2X Thicker" formula provides superior one-coat coverage that fills minor cracks and masks imperfections.

Application: Smooth, thick consistency that levels well; water-based formula for easy soap and water cleanup; can be applied in temperatures as low as 40°F.

Washability: High; durable finish can be easily cleaned of dirt and outdoor stains.

Durability: Advanced; provides superior weather resistance and protection against UV damage, fading, and peeling.

Best Use: Lightly worn decks and patios, wood, and concrete surfaces.

Pros: One-coat coverage; hides surface flaws; excellent weather resistance; low-temperature application.

Cons: Coverage is lower than standard stains due to thickness; requires thorough surface cleaning and prep for best adhesion.

Verdict: A heavy-duty restoration stain that simplifies deck maintenance with high-build coverage and long-lasting protection against the elements.

Spread Rate: ~400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Great; designed to seal and hide patches and seams on new drywall for a uniform finish.

Application: Smooth flow and leveling; minimizes surface imperfections; fast-drying water-base formula allows for quick topcoating.

Washability: N/A; must be topcoated with a finishing paint to provide a washable surface.

Durability: High; provides a strong, even foundation that ensures the topcoat adheres perfectly and maintains a consistent sheen.

VOC/Odor: Low Odor; water-base formula is ideal for large-scale interior residential or commercial projects.

Best Use: New or repaired interior drywall, especially before applying topcoats with any sheen.

Pros: Seals porous surfaces quickly; creates a perfectly uniform finish; low odor; easy soap and water cleanup.

Cons: For interior use only; not intended for blocking heavy stains or odors.

Verdict: The essential first step for new drywall, ensuring that your final paint job looks professional and flawless by creating a perfectly sealed and level surface.

Spread Rate: ~200–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: N/A (Dries Clear); designed to penetrate and bind rather than cover color.

Application: Low-viscosity formula that "glues down" peeling paint and seals cracked or checked surfaces; water-base formula for easy soap and water cleanup.

Washability: N/A; as a sealer, it must be topcoated for maximum washability and aesthetic results.

Durability: High; creates a sound, breathable surface that prevents future peeling and extends the life of the topcoat.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; minimal odor, making it safe for both interior and exterior use on various substrates.

Best Use: Peeling, chalky, or cracked wood siding, masonry, stucco, and previously painted surfaces.

Pros: Bridges cracks and seals surfaces in one step; remains flexible to prevent further cracking; works on interior and exterior surfaces.

Cons: Does not replace the need for removing loose paint; must be topcoated to protect the sealed surface.

Verdict: A unique, high-performance solution that acts as "liquid insurance" for your paint job, ensuring a stable foundation on problematic or aging surfaces.

Spread Rate: ~400–450 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Great; high-hiding white formula covers fungal stains and provides a clean, uniform base for topcoating.

Application: Smooth, water-base formula that can be applied directly over existing mold, mildew, and odor-causing bacteria; dries to the touch in 30 minutes; soap and water cleanup.

Washability: N/A; intended to be topcoated with a finishing paint for full washability and aesthetic appeal.

Durability: Superior; contains an EPA-registered antimicrobial fungicidal coating that kills existing organisms and prevents new growth on the primer film.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; minimal odor, making it safe for use in damp or enclosed interior spaces like basements and bathrooms.

Best Use: Interior and exterior surfaces including masonry, metal, and wood; ideal for remediation in areas prone to moisture or previous mold damage.

Pros: Kills active mold and mildew without pre-bleaching; binds chalky siding; excellent adhesion; works under any wallcovering.

Cons: Should not be used on surfaces with structural rot; must be topcoated for maximum protection.

Verdict: A heavy-duty, proactive solution for remediation and prevention that streamlines the cleanup process by killing fungal growth on contact.

Spread Rate: ~300–400 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Low (Dries Clear); designed to seal in odors and stains rather than provide opaque color coverage.

Application: Goes on white for easy visible coverage and dries to a clear, low-sheen finish in 45 minutes; water-base formula for easy soap and water cleanup.

Washability: N/A; must be topcoated with a finish paint or clear coat to provide a washable surface.

Durability: High; effectively kills and traps existing odors from pets, urine, tobacco, and fire damage; prevents odors from migrating through new paint.

VOC/Odor: Very Low VOC; low odor during application, specifically engineered for use in enclosed spaces where air quality is a concern.

Best Use: Wood sub-floors, cabinets, and walls where deep-seated odors must be eliminated before final finishing.

Pros: Permanently kills tough odors; dries clear to allow for natural wood finishes; fast drying; compatible with any topcoat.

Cons: Does not hide dark colors or significant surface stains; requires a topcoat for protection.

Verdict: A specialized, high-efficiency sealer that solves the most difficult odor problems at the source, providing a fresh start for any renovation project.

Spread Rate: ~400–500 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Superior; white-pigmented shellac provides the ultimate hide for the most persistent stains and dark colors.

Application: Dries lightning-fast (touch-dry in 20 mins, recoat in 45 mins); sticks to all surfaces including glass, tile, and metal without sanding; requires denatured alcohol or ammonia-based cleaners for cleanup.

Washability: N/A; designed to be topcoated with any oil or water-based architectural paint.

Durability: Exceptional; permanently eliminates the toughest stains and odors from fire, smoke, water, and pets; seals wood knots and tannin bleed.

VOC/Odor: Higher VOC; distinct shellac/alcohol odor that dissipates quickly as it dries.

Best Use: Interior surfaces and spot-priming exterior wood; ideal for severe water damage, fire restoration, and sealing greasy kitchen cabinets.

Pros: Unrivaled stain and odor killer; world-class adhesion; dries faster than any other primer; seals knots and sap streaks completely.

Cons: Thin consistency can be splattery; requires specialized cleanup solvents; not for full exterior use.

Verdict: The "gold standard" for restoration and problem surfaces—if B-I-N can’t stick to it or seal it, nothing will.

Spread Rate: ~400–450 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Excellent; high-opacity oil-based formula designed to block the toughest stains and prevent bleed-through.

Application: Smooth application with brush, roller, or sprayer; sticks to all surfaces without sanding; dries to the touch in 35 minutes; requires mineral spirits for cleanup.

Washability: N/A; as a primer, it is designed to be topcoated for maximum washability and aesthetic results.

Durability: High; seals tannin bleed, nicotine, smoke, and water stains; provides a flexible, permanently white film.

VOC/Odor: Higher VOC; traditional solvent odor; ensures excellent performance in low temperatures (as low as 40°F).

Best Use: Interior and exterior wood, trim, siding, and surfaces with heavy stain damage or nicotine/smoke odors.

Pros: Best-in-class stain blocking; sticks to any surface without sanding; seals cedar and redwood tannin; fast dry-to-recoat time.

Cons: Requires solvent for cleanup; strong odor; oil-based formula.

Verdict: The "go-to" professional choice for high-performance stain blocking and superior adhesion on both interior and exterior surfaces.

Spread Rate: ~400–450 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Ultra high-hiding; specifically formulated to hide dark colors and seal tough stains effectively.

Application: Superior adhesion; bonds to all surfaces—including glossy wood, metal, and tile—without the need for sanding; dries to the touch in 30 minutes and can be recoated in 1 hour.

Washability: N/A; as a primer, it creates a foundational bond for topcoats which provide the final washability.

Durability: Extreme; features 50% greater adhesion than standard primers and contains a mildew-resistant film for long-term surface protection.

VOC/Odor: Low VOC; water-based formula with low odor, making it safe for both interior and exterior projects.

Best Use: All surfaces including drywall, masonry, wood, metal, and high-gloss surfaces like cabinets or PVC.

Pros: No sanding required; hides dark colors effortlessly; blocks all types of stains; excellent for high-humidity areas.

Cons: Not a finishing coat; must be topcoated for full protection and color.

Verdict: The ultimate "all-surface" primer that eliminates the need for sanding and multiple coats of paint—a professional-grade choice for ensuring the best possible finish on any project.

Spread Rate: ~400–450 sq ft/gal.

Hide: Superior; high-solids formula effectively seals common stains and provides a uniform surface for topcoating.

Application: Excellent flow and leveling; sticks to all surfaces (including glossy ones) without sanding; dries in just 1 hour; water-based formula.

Washability: N/A; as a primer, it is designed to be topcoated for maximum washability and protection.

Durability: High; features a mildew-resistant film and provides an incredibly strong bond to ensure the longevity of the final paint layer.

VOC/Odor: Zero VOC; virtually no odor, making it the ideal choice for indoor projects in sensitive environments or occupied spaces.

Best Use: Interior and exterior walls, ceilings, doors, trim, and "hard-to-stick" surfaces like glass or tile.

Pros: Eco-friendly zero VOC formula; no sanding required; blocks tough stains; fast 1-hour dry time; low-odor primer sealer.

Cons: Not a finishing coat; must be topcoated for full protection and aesthetic results.

Verdict: An elite, environmentally-conscious primer that tackles every surface with ease—perfect for those who want professional-grade adhesion and stain blocking without the harsh chemical smells.