Aloha, fun & authoritative answers -- no cost, no registration, no passwords, no popups
(as an eBay Partner & Amazon Affiliate we earn from qualifying purchases)

Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989

-----

Finish for exterior steel sculpture

Q. I am looking for a finish for my steel sculpture. I have been using a product called Incralac [on eBay or Amazon] but am looking for alternatives. I need a finish that will withstand the rugged southwestern environment. It needs to be compatible with patinized, oxidized and pre-finished steel. I have had poor luck with automotive finishes as they deteriorate rapidly in the desert environment. Traditional waxes and penetrating oils dull the finish and require too much maintenance. Does anyone have any suggestions? All information is greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

Greg Reiche
Standing Stones Studio - Placitas, New Mexico, USA

A. Hi Greg.

Incralac is brass lacquer with a tarnish preventer for copper, called benzotriazole [on eBay or Amazon] , incorporated into the mix. The benzotriazole doesn't help you with steel, and there are probably better clear coats for steel than brass lacquer. 2k (two-component) automotive clearcoat is probably good, and if you want a single-component clearcoat, Everbrite [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] or Protectaclear from Everbrite [a finishing.com supporting advertiser] would probably be good ones.

Luck & Regards,

pic of Ted Mooney
Ted Mooney, P.E. RET
Striving to live Aloha
finishing.com - Pine Beach, New Jersey

(No "dead threads" here! If this page isn't currently on the Hotline your Q, A, or Comment will restore it)

Q, A, or Comment on THIS thread -or- Start a NEW Thread

Disclaimer: It's not possible to fully diagnose a finishing problem or the hazards of an operation via these pages. All information presented is for general reference and does not represent a professional opinion nor the policy of an author's employer. The internet is largely anonymous & unvetted; some names may be fictitious and some recommendations might be harmful.

If you are seeking a product or service related to metal finishing, please check these Directories: