Feature Story

Valspar Direct to Metal: Easy & Durable Metal Priming

Discover the revolutionary coating solution that's transforming the way we approach metal surfaces: Valspar Direct to Metal (DTM) paint. This innovative product, brought to you by the renowned Sherwin-Williams company, is designed to provide exceptional adhesion, durability, and aesthetic appeal directly on clean, bare metal surfaces. Let's delve into the world of Valspar DTM, exploring its benefits, application, and why it's becoming the go-to choice for metal painting projects.

Valspar Direct-To-Metal Semi-gloss Extra White Interior/Exterior Water-based Industrial Enamel Paint ( 1-gallon ) Lowes.com
Valspar Direct-To-Metal Semi-gloss Extra White Interior/Exterior Water-based Industrial Enamel Paint ( 1-gallon ) Lowes.com

Understanding Valspar Direct to Metal Paint

Valspar Gallon White Semi-Gloss Metal Building Paint
Valspar Gallon White Semi-Gloss Metal Building Paint

Valspar DTM is a high-performance, water-based acrylic paint that's specifically formulated to bond directly with metal surfaces. It's designed to eliminate the need for costly and time-consuming surface preparation, such as sandblasting or priming, making it a more efficient and economical solution for metal painting.

Key Benefits of Valspar Direct to Metal Paint

Valspar Direct-To-Metal Semi-gloss Black Interior/Exterior Water-based Industrial Enamel Paint ( 1-gallon ) | 007.5760026.007
Valspar Direct-To-Metal Semi-gloss Black Interior/Exterior Water-based Industrial Enamel Paint ( 1-gallon ) | 007.5760026.007
  • Exceptional Adhesion: Valspar DTM forms a strong, durable bond with metal surfaces, ensuring long-lasting protection and resistance to peeling, chipping, and corrosion.
  • Versatile Application: It can be applied to a wide range of metal substrates, including steel, aluminum, and galvanized metal, making it a versatile choice for various projects.
  • Quick Drying Time: With a typical drying time of just 30 minutes, Valspar DTM allows for faster project completion and reduced downtime.
  • Low VOC Emissions: As a water-based paint, Valspar DTM has low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, making it an eco-friendlier and safer choice for both users and the environment.
  • Wide Color Range: Available in a broad spectrum of colors and finishes, Valspar DTM offers creative freedom to match any design vision.

Preparing Metal Surfaces for Valspar Direct to Metal Paint

Valspar Direct-To-Metal Semi-gloss Neutral Interior/Exterior Water-based Industrial Enamel Paint ( 5-gallon ) | 007.5990183.008
Valspar Direct-To-Metal Semi-gloss Neutral Interior/Exterior Water-based Industrial Enamel Paint ( 5-gallon ) | 007.5990183.008

While Valspar DTM is designed to bond directly with clean metal surfaces, proper surface preparation is still crucial for optimal performance. Here's a simple, step-by-step guide to prepare your metal surface:

  1. Remove any loose rust, mill scale, or other contaminants using a wire brush, scraper, or power tool.
  2. Clean the surface with a suitable cleaner, such as Valspar's own Metal Cleaner, to remove grease, oil, and dirt.
  3. Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
  4. Lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper (120-grit or finer) to create a better bonding surface. Wipe off any dust with a damp cloth.

Applying Valspar Direct to Metal Paint

Premium Direct To Metal Paint | Paint Products | Valspar
Premium Direct To Metal Paint | Paint Products | Valspar

Once your metal surface is properly prepared, applying Valspar DTM is a straightforward process. Here are some tips to ensure a successful application:

  • Stir the paint thoroughly before use to ensure consistent color and performance.
  • Apply the paint using a high-quality synthetic brush, roller, or sprayer, following the manufacturer's recommendations for coverage rates and application techniques.
  • For optimal results, apply two to three coats of Valspar DTM, allowing each coat to dry for the recommended time (typically 30 minutes) before applying the next.

Valspar Direct to Metal Paint: Ideal for Various Applications

Valspar® Direct-to-Metal paint helps protect indoor and outdoor metal surfaces, like iron, steel and aluminum, from rust and corrosion. | Lowe's Home Improvement | Facebook
Valspar® Direct-to-Metal paint helps protect indoor and outdoor metal surfaces, like iron, steel and aluminum, from rust and corrosion. | Lowe's Home Improvement | Facebook

Valspar DTM's unique formulation and exceptional performance make it an excellent choice for a wide range of metal painting projects, including:

Industry/Application Benefits of Valspar DTM
Architectural Metal Provides long-lasting protection and enhances the aesthetic appeal of metal cladding, roofing, and other architectural elements.
Industrial Equipment Offers exceptional corrosion resistance and durability, extending the lifespan of machinery, vehicles, and other industrial equipment.
Automotive and Marine Protects and beautifies metal surfaces on cars, trucks, boats, and other vehicles, providing a durable, long-lasting finish.
Metal Furniture and Decor Allows for creative expression and protects metal furniture, decorative items, and other home accents from wear and tear.
Premium Direct To Metal Paint | Paint Products | Valspar
Premium Direct To Metal Paint | Paint Products | Valspar
Valspar Direct to Metal Flat Red Latex Interior/Exterior Paint (1-Gallon) Lowes.com
Valspar Direct to Metal Flat Red Latex Interior/Exterior Paint (1-Gallon) Lowes.com
Paint Colours  | Find Your Perfect Paint Colour | Valspar
Paint Colours | Find Your Perfect Paint Colour | Valspar
How to Choose a Paint Sheen or Finish | Valspar® Paint
How to Choose a Paint Sheen or Finish | Valspar® Paint
19 reactions · 62 shares | Valspar® Direct-to-Metal paint helps protect indoor and outdoor metal surfaces, like iron, steel and aluminum, from rust and corrosion. | Lowe's Home Improvement
19 reactions · 62 shares | Valspar® Direct-to-Metal paint helps protect indoor and outdoor metal surfaces, like iron, steel and aluminum, from rust and corrosion. | Lowe's Home Improvement
Navy Bean | Cream Paint | Valspar Paint
Navy Bean | Cream Paint | Valspar Paint
10+ Stunning Valspar Paint Color Ideas for Every Room
10+ Stunning Valspar Paint Color Ideas for Every Room
Valspar Trade Exterior
Valspar Trade Exterior
a close up of a white cabinet with silver knobs and pulls on the doors
a close up of a white cabinet with silver knobs and pulls on the doors
Exterior And Outdoor Paint | Paint Products | Valspar
Exterior And Outdoor Paint | Paint Products | Valspar
How to Paint a Steel Door
How to Paint a Steel Door
Green Bedroom Paint Ideas | Valspar Paint
Green Bedroom Paint Ideas | Valspar Paint
How To Paint Metallic Furniture The Easy Way
How To Paint Metallic Furniture The Easy Way
Valspar’s 2026 Color Pick Makes Any Space Feel Calmer—Without Going Neutral
Valspar’s 2026 Color Pick Makes Any Space Feel Calmer—Without Going Neutral
17 shades of grey…
17 shades of grey…
Valspar greys and blacks on a white background
Valspar greys and blacks on a white background
a computer on a desk with books and a potted plant in front of it
a computer on a desk with books and a potted plant in front of it
an empty living room with blue walls and wood flooring, including a gray couch
an empty living room with blue walls and wood flooring, including a gray couch
Interior & Exterior Paint, Wood Stain, Floor Coating | Valspar®
Interior & Exterior Paint, Wood Stain, Floor Coating | Valspar®

Valspar Direct to Metal paint is more than just a paint; it's a comprehensive solution that combines exceptional performance, versatility, and ease of application. By choosing Valspar DTM for your metal painting projects, you're investing in a product that delivers lasting results and helps you achieve your creative vision. So, why wait? Explore the world of Valspar DTM today and experience the future of metal painting.