Yes. Even though new metal from the factory looks clean, it is coated with manufacturing oils, solvents, and residues that will block paint adhesion. You still need to wash it down with KBS Klean before etching it with RustBlast and sealing it with RustSeal.
Why "clean-looking" new metal still needs prep New metal straight from the factory has all sorts of solvents, manufacturing residues, and oils on it, so it is absolutely critical to wash the surface down with KBS Klean before you proceed on to etch the surface with RustBlast. |
On top of that, new metal is usually very slick, so be sure you spend plenty of time on the RustBlast step to ensure you get a great etch on the surface, creating an ideal anchor pattern so RustSeal sticks really well.
The 3-Step System for New Metal
| Step | Product | Why it matters on new metal |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Clean | KBS Klean | Strips manufacturing oils, solvents, and residue without leaving a film behind. |
| 2. Etch | RustBlast | Cuts through the slick factory surface and leaves a zinc phosphate anchor pattern. |
| 3. Seal | RustSeal | Bonds permanently to the etched surface for long-term rust protection. |
Pro tip Don't let KBS Klean or RustBlast dry on the surface before rinsing. Rinsing while still wet avoids water spotting and residue buildup, and gives RustBlast the clean, dry surface it needs to etch properly. |
Please review the KBS Klean Directions and the RustSeal Directions for full application steps, dilution ratios, and recoat windows, and let us know if you have any additional questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is new metal from the factory actually clean?
No. New metal straight from the factory has all sorts of solvents, manufacturing residues, and oils on it, even though it looks clean to the eye. Those contaminants have to be removed before any coating will bond properly.
Do I still need KBS Klean if the metal looks clean?
Yes. It is absolutely critical to wash the surface down with KBS Klean before you move on to etching it with RustBlast, regardless of how clean the metal appears.
Why does new metal need extra attention during the RustBlast step?
New metal is usually very slick. Spending plenty of time on the RustBlast step ensures a great etch on the surface, creating an ideal anchor pattern so RustSeal sticks really well.
What is the correct order for prepping new metal before painting?
Clean the surface with KBS Klean first, then etch it with RustBlast, then apply RustSeal. This is the KBS 3-Step System, and skipping the cleaning step on new metal is one of the most common causes of adhesion failure.
Ready to prep your new metal the right way? Grab all three steps of the KBS 3-Step System and get a rust-proof finish that lasts. |