paintsforboats
Marine · Pool · Industrial Coatings
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Flat
Iron Grey
Coverage per gallon
350 sq ft

Estimated coverage on a smooth, properly primed surface. Rough or porous surfaces will require more.

Primers

PFB Marine Metal Primer

Flat · 1 Gallon

Anti-corrosion metal primer with zinc phosphate inhibitors. Bonds directly to bare steel and aluminum for maximum adhesion before topcoat application in marine environments.

Compatible surfaces
MetalSteelAluminum
Price per gallon
$69.99
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PFB Marine Metal Primer is a zinc phosphate anti-corrosion primer engineered for bare steel, aluminum, and iron surfaces in marine environments. It bonds directly to properly prepared metal and creates a protective barrier that prevents rust and corrosion from forming under the topcoat. This is not a consumer rust-inhibiting primer — it uses industrial zinc phosphate chemistry trusted by shipyards and metal fabricators for decades. Essential for aluminum boat hulls, steel keels, metal hardware, and any metal surface that will be exposed to saltwater or marine atmospheres.

Surface Preparation

  • Remove all rust, mill scale, and old paint down to clean bright metal
  • Sand or grind with 60-80 grit to create a rough surface profile
  • Wipe with a solvent-based metal prep to remove grinding dust and oils
  • Apply primer within 4 hours of surface preparation to prevent flash rust
  • For heavily rusted surfaces, consider PFB Rust Converter Primer first

How to Apply

Application method
Brush, roller, or conventional spray. Stir thoroughly before use — zinc phosphate settles in the can.
Number of coats
1-2 coats. One coat is sufficient for surfaces that will receive topcoat within 72 hours.
Dry time
2-4 hours between coats. Ready for topcoat in 8-24 hours.
Temperature
Apply between 45°F and 95°F. Metal primer is more temperature-tolerant than topcoats.
Coverage
330-370 sq ft per gallon on smooth metal. Rough or pitted surfaces will require more.

Complete Your System

Get the best results by pairing PFB Marine Metal Primer with these compatible PFB products.

PFB Pro Marine Enamel
Apply Pro Marine Enamel over Metal Primer for a high-gloss marine finish
$112.99
PFB Marine Topcoat Advanced Finish
Apply Topcoat Advanced over Metal Primer on aluminum boats
$99.99
PFB Rust Converter Primer
Use Rust Converter first on heavily rusted surfaces before Metal Primer
$54.99

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Marine Metal Primer on aluminum?
Yes. This primer is formulated for both steel and aluminum. On aluminum, it prevents galvanic corrosion that can form under marine topcoats.
Do I need Metal Primer if the metal is not rusty?
Yes. Primer is essential on bare metal even without rust. It provides adhesion for the topcoat and corrosion prevention that topcoats alone cannot deliver.
What is the difference between Metal Primer and Rust Converter?
Metal Primer is for clean, bare metal that has been properly prepped. Rust Converter is for surfaces that still have rust — it chemically converts rust to a stable compound. Use Rust Converter on rusty surfaces, then Metal Primer, then topcoat.
How long can Metal Primer sit before I apply topcoat?
Apply topcoat within 30 days for best adhesion. If more than 30 days pass, lightly sand the primer with 220-grit before topcoating.
Can I leave Metal Primer as the final coat?
Metal Primer is not designed as a standalone finish. It must be topcoated to provide full protection. Without a topcoat, the primer will break down from UV exposure within a few months.