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Metal Cleaners and Preparation
Effective preparation is essential before painting stainless steel or galvanised metal, helping coatings bond securely to the surface. Products like degreasers and T-Wash support proper adhesion by removing oils, dirt, and contaminants that could otherwise cause premature failure. Discover our full range of metal paints to complete your surface treatment project with long-lasting results.
Teamac Mordant Solution (T Wash)
Etching agent, formulated to enhance paint adhesion on galvanised surfaces. For new or weathered galvanising. Also applicable on weathered surfaces with some limitations. Ideal for paints that struggle with adhesion on untreated zinc.
Cromadex 678 Spirit Wipe
Cromadex 678 Spirit Wipe is formulated to remove all traces of oil and grease from metal surfaces prior to painting. Recommended for manual cleaning where vapour degreasing is not suitable, product is supplied ready for use. More Information Delivery Info
Sherwin-Williams Degreaser W500
Sherwin-Williams Degreaser W500, formerly known as Envirogard W500 and the recommended alternative to RSL Fats, Oils and Grease Remover, is a water based degreasing agent based on a blend of plant derived surfactants free from caustic alkalis, silicates, harmful solvents, phosphates or aggressive biocides. Degreaser W500 is suitable for...
Sherwin-Williams Mordant Wash L703
Sherwin-Williams Mordant Wash L703 (formerly known as Leighs L703/Transgard TG155) is a blue mordant solution for application onto galvanized surfaces as a chemical pre-treatment to improve the adhesion of subsequent paint systems.
Tor T-Wash Mordant Solution
Tor T-Wash Mordant Solution, a pre-treatment wash for galvanised steel that ensures adhesion for a wider range of subsequent coatings. The product changes colour (from grey to black) for a visual aid and proof that the entire surface has been treated satisfactorily. Good coverage - up to 20 square metres per litre Pre-treatment only -...
Panel Wipe
Panel Wipe, part of our cleaners and thinners range for use with appropriate paints, coatings and equipment advised by our technical team. Professional use only. More Information Delivery Info
Axalta ViterWash T Etch Solution
Axalta ViterWash T Etch Solution is a single pack phosphoric acid etch solution, designed for the surface treatment of fresh galvanising prior to painting. To etch bright, unweathered galvanised surfaces, as an adhesion promoter for subsequently applied paint coatings Turns the surface a grey-black colour on reaction to show effective...
HMG Mordant T Wash
HMG Mordant T Wash is designed for use as an etching solution for galvanised steel & zintec. Manufactured to a formulation originally developed by the British Rail Board
Bonda V11 Glassfibre
Bonda V11 Glassfibre is a rapid hardening resilient filler with high glass fibre content providing great strength to repairs. For repairing rust holes and gaps in metal and is an excellent reinforced filler for fibreglass repairs. High glass fibre content Provides great strength to repairs For repairing rust holes and gaps in metal...
Watco Galvaprime
Primes and prepares galvanised surfaces for painting. Overcoat the same day Essential for good adhesion Quick and easy to use Apply by brush Coverage Calculator More Information Delivery Info
PPG Prep 88
PPG Prep 88 (also known as Duraprep) is a waterborne alkaline cleaner that is ideal for cleaning soiled and chalked surfaces. Free from solvents, phosphates, halogens and petroleum distillates. Biodegrable Dramatically improves aged overcoatability Freezing point: 25°F (-4°C) Boiling Point: 212°F (100°C)
International Interprime 160
International Interprime 160 is a phosphoric acid based mordant solution for treating galvanised steel. International Interprime 160 is for the chemical pretreatment of galvanised steel prior to the application of protective coating systems, in order to ensure good adhesion where blasting or abrasion is not possible.
Hydron Nu-Steel SP Mordant Wash
Nu-Steel SP Mordant Wash is an acidic solution of a copper salt for the pretreatment of clean zinc surfaces. Provides a good key for paints which would otherwise show poor adhesion For Zinc and Galvanised steel More Information Delivery Info
International Interplus 4101 Clean Gel
Interplus 4101 Clean Gel, a water-based rust remover / cleaner gel designed to remove light to medium rust deposits from a variety of surfaces. A quick, cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to sandblasting, acid washing or high-pressure water blasting, Interplus 4101 Clean Gel has a thick consistency and sticks to surfaces, making it...
International Interplus 4103 Clean Cons
Interplus 4103 Clean Cons, a water-based rust remover / cleaner gel designed to remove light to medium rust deposits from a variety of surfaces. A quick, cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to sandblasting, acid washing or high-pressure water blasting, Interplus 4103 Clean Cons is a concentrated fluid, excellent for cleaning closed...
Cromadex Anti-Static Cleaner
Cromadex Anti-Static Cleaner is a solvent used to remove electrostatic build-up and clean surfaces prior to overcoating. 5L Pack Applied using a lint free cloth This product is only available as PRICE ON APPLICATION - For more information and to place an order please contact us on 0113 2455450 or email [email protected]. More...
International Interplus 546
International Interplus 546 is a single component solvent based cleaner/degreaser, which is specifically designed to remove surface contamination such as oil, grease, dirt and soot from metallic and coated substrates as part of a maintenance program.
Axalta ViterClene C Degreasing Solution
A single pack bio-degradable detergent wash, for the efficient removal of dirt, oil or grease prior to painting. Specially formulated for use with ViterClad cladding coatings. Specifically recommended for cleaning Plastisol or other sheeting prior to coating with ViterClad systems Effective for cleaning aged coatings or bare substrates of...
International Interplus 634
International Interplus 634 is specifically designed to remove tightly adhering coating residues from metallic substrates prior to repainting with approved maintenance coatings. Coating residues include conventional epoxies, polyurethanes, alkyds, acrylics and water borne coatings. Please Note: This product is subject to an extended lead time...
Owatrol Owaphos Rust Remover & Passivater
For ferrous and non-ferrous metals, steel, cast iron, galvanized and zinc coated surfaces. No need for sanding. Quickly and effectively chemically prepares new metal surfaces for painting. Creates a fine coat of oxide on the surface that coatings can firmly adhere to. Used diluted, removes rust from ferrous metals and the oxidation from...
Owatrol Oil Paint Conditioner & Rust Inhibitor
For use on ferrous and non-ferrous metals including steel structures, railings, pipes, grills. Machinery, trailers, tanks. Fills dry porous wood to stop paint peeling. Provides a tough, flexible finish, driving out excess moisture and air; displacing it from rusted metal, so stopping rust. Added to any oil or alkyd based coatings and it...
Sherwin-Williams Cleaner 26
Sherwin-Williams Cleaner 26 is a specially formulated blend of solvents designed for the cleaning of some surfaces prior to application of compatible coatings and/or cleaning of the application tools including brushes, roller and spraying equipment.
Owatrol Polytrol Colour Restorer
Restores the original look and finish to gelcoat, plastic, metal and other surfaces. Does not contain silicone. Rejuvenates colour and lustre lost through exposure to sunlight, rain and pollution. Protects against corrosion. Works on fibreglass (GRP), plastic, paint, tiles, metals, car bumpers, boats, garden furniture, shutters.
RSL Industrial Floor Cleaner
A highly effective, versatile aqueous cleaner and degreaser. Powerful cleaning action. Easily removes oils, grease and heavy soiling from most flooring surfaces. Leaves no smears or residues upon rinsing. May be used after RSL Tyre Mark Remover or RSL HD Tyre Mark Remover during remedial cleaning of painted floors to ensure complete...
Hydron Mona-Clean Surface Sheen
Mona-Clean Surface Sheen is a specially formulated water based product developed to restore & protect the original colour of plastic, aluminium, metal & paint on various surfaces. Effectively removes all types of soiling, pollution and stains Suitable for use on all types weathered plastic and painted surfaces More Information...
TSS Protect
Tank Storage and Services Ltd's Protect and Protect OD are multi-purpose sanitiser, detergent and deodourisers, containing a blend of Q.A.C bactericide, non-ionic detergents and water softening agents. They are effective against a wide range of bacteria including, Salmonella, E. Coli, Listeria and fungi. Conforms to B.S. 6424 Grade Q.A.P.100....
TSS Mastersolve
Tank Storage and Services Ltd's Mastersolve is a highly efficient multi-purpose hard surface cleaner and degreaser containing water soluble solvent. Effective in hard or soft water Efficient in cold or hot solutions Mastersolve is non-toxic, bio-degradable, non-caustic, non-corrosive, and film-free. It can be used either by hand or via...
TSS Safe Glaze
Tank Storage and Services Ltd's Safe Glaze is an industrial strength cleaner, descaler and disinfectant ideal for use on a wide range of sanitary surfaces. The thick viscous nature of the product means it clings to vertical surfaces so increasing its effectiveness. Contains less than 10% phosphoric acid Effective in removing rust, water...
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Metal Cleaners, Degreasers and T-Wash for Surface Preparation and Contaminant Removal
Preparing metal surfaces correctly is critical when painting stainless steel or galvanised substrates. Smooth finishes and natural oxide layers make these materials difficult to coat without treatment, which is why degreasers and T-Wash are often required to ensure coatings can properly adhere. Whether you're applying a protective or decorative finish, thorough cleaning and etching will prevent delamination and rust. These preparation steps are just as important as selecting the right steel paints to deliver performance in commercial and industrial environments.
For rusted metal, surface preparation often begins with targeted corrosion removal. Specialist rust removers are formulated to clean oxidised areas safely, readying the surface for priming or direct-to-metal application. This step is especially important in marine, automotive, or external architectural applications where exposure is constant. When combined with the correct primers or coatings, thorough preparation ensures the coating system remains intact, durable, and visually appealing for years to come.
Metal Cleaning and Surface Preparation FAQs
Why is degreasing necessary before painting metal?
Degreasing removes oils and residues that prevent paint from bonding properly. Even invisible contaminants can lead to poor adhesion and coating failure.
Do I need T-Wash for all galvanised surfaces?
Yes, T-Wash chemically etches galvanised steel, allowing coatings to stick. Without it, paint may peel, especially in outdoor or high-exposure environments.
Can I use the same surface preparation for stainless and galvanised steel?
Not always. While degreasers are useful on both, stainless steel may require rust removers, and galvanised steel usually needs T-Wash to roughen the surface.
What happens if I skip the preparation step?
Skipping surface prep can lead to flaking, blistering, or rust forming underneath the coating, shortening the lifespan of your paintwork.
How do I prepare rusted stainless steel for painting?
Start with a rust remover suited to stainless steel, clean with a degreaser, and dry thoroughly before applying primer or paint. This prevents future corrosion and ensures adhesion.