Because most of our paint is shipped at some point, there is a chance that paint may get between the can and the lid — which can make opening the lid more difficult than with ordinary paint. The main resin in RustSeal is an adhesive, which is part of what makes it such a powerful rust prevention coating, but it also means the lid may feel more resistant than you'd expect.
- Remove the plastic ring — If there is a plastic ring on the can lid, remove it before you begin.
- Use the right tool — Use a paint can opener with a curved or "L"-shaped end. Flat head screwdrivers are not ideal — they tend to warp the lid as you pry.
- Lift and rotate — 10 degrees at a time — Use the opener to gently lift the lid in one section, rotate the can 10 degrees, and lift gently again. Work all the way around the can. Never pry from a single point — this warps both the lid and the compression seal, making it difficult to reseal the can.
- Go around a second time — Repeat the full rotation, lifting the lid a little more with each pass, until the lid comes free.
Pro Tip: Work Around the Can, Not Against It Rotate and lift — 10 degrees at a time, all the way around. Two passes is usually all it takes. Patience here protects the lid seal so you can properly reseal the can and preserve your RustSeal for future use. |
Ready to start your project? Review the complete RustSeal Application Directions before you begin, or shop RustSeal now and get the rock-hard rust prevention coating trusted by DIYers and professionals alike. |