Trailers are a significant investment used for business, camping, and a variety of other purposes.
And honestly, nothing is more depressing than seeing your once beautiful trailer covered in rust, ruining its appearance. So, if you’re like me, who’s constantly searching for ways to improve the appearance of my prized possession, then it’s time to invest in premium-quality trailer paint.
Not only will it make your trailer look new again, but it will also protect it from rust, elements, and UV rays.
Now, choosing the best trailer paint that ticks off all the boxes, including durability, can be a little complicated, especially when there are plenty of brands marketing cheap variants. Believe it or not, even professionals need a little help as not all paints are up to par.
To my delight, I’ve found five excellent options that you should consider for painting your RV. So, let’s get started!
Top 5 Trailer Paint Reviews
1. POR-15 Rust Preventative Paint
Starting the list with one of my favorites and go-to products, the POR-15 Rust Preventative Paint provides top-notch protection against rust, thanks to its hammer-touch finish. It’s available in gloss and semi-gloss black, silver, gray, and clear, so you’ll surely find the one you’re looking for.
Product Highlights
For over 40 years, POR-15 has been supplying high-performance rust protection coatings, and its latest product is no exception. The Rust Preventative Paint leaves no stone unturned to protect your trailer from rust by preventing water, chemicals, salt, and other corrosive contaminants. Thanks to its rock-hard finish, it doesn’t peel, chip or crack, keeping your vehicle safe from daily wear and tear.
Furthermore, you can DIY paint your trailer by following three simple steps. Start by cleaning impurities from the surface using a degreaser, then prep it with a Metal Prep from the brand and apply it onto the rust directly, and that’s it.
You’ll be pleased to know that it’s resistant to alkalis and various acids, so its durability is top-notch. After all, it exceeds a 2,000-hour salt spray test at 450-degree F. What’s more, you can apply it to various non-porous surfaces, including fiberglass, wood, and so on.
Lastly, you’re spoiled for variety as the brand sells its paint in various colors and sizes.
What’s There To Like About It?
Last year, after deciding to go camping with my family, I was distressed to see my trailer covered in rust. It was only then my father suggested I buy this Rust Preventative Paint by POR-15 to coat my trailer.
To tell you the truth, it’s one of the best trailer paints that I’ve ever got hold of, thanks to its top-notch performance and unsurpassed durability. What’s more, you won’t have to break into a sweat to remove rust as it can be applied directly on the rusted surface.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Easy to apply and highly durable, I faced no issues with the paint itself. However, I suggest you keep a paint cleaner by your side while working with it, for it drips and can take up to a week to come off.
Pros and Cons of POR-15 Rust Preventative Paint
Pros
Cons
- ✅ WHY CHOOSE POR-15 RUST PREVENTIVE COATING – POR-15 is the gold standard in high performance coatings. Trusted by DIY and professionals to stop rust permanently by forming an impenetrable barrier that protects a variety of surfaces from water, chemicals, salt, corrosive contaminants and everyday wear and tear. No other paint, coating, or even powder coat can match POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating when applied using the 3-Step Stop Rust System.
2. Rust-Oleum Hammered Metal Finish
This oil-based paint provides excellent resistance to chipping, fading, and abrasion and dries to touch within two to four hours. Thanks to its hammered metal finish, it excellently covers imperfections and blemishes in rusted or pitted, and scratched metals.
Product Highlights
One of the most reliable brands in the industry, Rust-Oleum is a fan favorite brand because of its innovative coatings. Developed by Sea Captain Rober Fergusson, it boasts a durable coating that withstands corrosion and protects surfaces against elements, so you won’t have to worry about nature tampering with the finish.
Furthermore, this paint comes in a one-quart can, which is sufficient to cover an area of about 100 sq. ft., so the quantity is ideal for painting one trailer. However, you can go for a two-pack option if you need more.
What’s particularly impressive is its drying time as it dries to touch within four hours of application. Consequently, you can apply a second coat the same day.
That’s not all; it’s a highly versatile UV-resistant formula as it can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces.
What’s There To Like About It?
As a DIY enthusiast, I’m a fan of Rust-Oleum paints because of their quality and performance. So, when I stumbled upon this one, I decided to order one for painting my son’s trailer, which he uses for camping.
Despite painting his trailer a year back, the paint hasn’t chipped or peeled because of the durable protective coating of the paint that withstands weather and corrosion well. Also, you’re spoilt for choices as it offers this Hammered Metal Finish paint in multiple colors, including black, brown, copper, deep green, gold, gray, and silver.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
If you’re looking for good-quality metallic paint that adds shine without compromising on performance, then this Hammered Metal Finish fits the bill. However, I won’t recommend this to beginners as it is slightly thicker than other paints, making it challenging to apply. In that case, the POR-15 Rust Preventative Paint is your best bet as it isn’t as thick as this one by Rust-Oleum.
Pros and Cons of Rust-Oleum Hammered Metal Finish
Pros
Cons
- Weather and corrosion resistant coating protects exterior/interior surfaces like wood, metal, concrete, masonry and more
- Oil-based formula provides a durable protective coating with excellent rust prevention
- Dries to the touch in 2-4 hours and covers up to 100 sq ft
3. Krylon Farm & Implement Paint
Another dependable option is the Farm & Implement Paint by Krylon, which boasts a durable coating designed to withstand the test of time. This enamel boasts a high gloss finish and convenient application, making it a worthy addition to your garage cupboard.
Product Highlights
Those who use their trailers for the toughest jobs should get their hands on this innovative paint from the house of Krylon. It comes in a one-gallon can and sports a high-gloss finish that adds a brilliant sheen to the metallic parts of your trailer.
Furthermore, it’s highly durable and will protect your vehicle from daily wear and tear. All things aside, it is designed for use by both novices and professionals as you can apply it directly to metal surfaces without any prepping.
Gallon, aerosol, half-pint, or quart - regardless of the styles you’re looking for, the brand has got you covered with four options to choose from. Additionally, it is sold in different sizes, ranging from 32-ounce to 128-ounce packs, so you can order any size depending on the next painting project.
What’s There To Like About It?
Straight out of the box, I liked the high–gloss finish of this paint that added a subtle shine to the metal parts of my trailer. Nonetheless, it doesn’t compromise durability as it withstands the elements exceptionally well.
Also, I find spray painting convenient, so I ordered an aerosol can along with the one-gallon can, which I use for my DIY home improvement projects. Last but not least, it can be coated without prepping the surface, making it an excellent pick for all DIYers.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
For most parts, I’m satisfied with the performance of the product, but there’s a minor flaw that you should know. It isn’t a quick-drying formula like the Rust-Oleum Hammered Metal Finish, for it takes up to 56 hours to fully dry.
Pros and Cons of Krylon Farm & Implement Paint
Pros
Cons
- Item Package Dimension: 9.7L x 6.9W x 6.8H inches
- Item Package Weight - 9.68 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
4. RTG Deck, Porch, & Patio Anti-Slip Paint
Easy to apply and durable, the RTG Deck, Porch, & Patio Anti-Slip Paint offers a durable coating that withstands harsh weather and heavy foot traffic well. Additionally, this water-based polyurethane formula is low in VOCs and odor, so you can give it a go without second thoughts.
Product Highlights
To begin with, this textured paint features a fast-drying formula and imparts an attractive finish to the trailer. Not only that, but it also provides excellent footing when the surface is wet, making it a dependable option for those who travel during monsoons.
Furthermore, this water-based polyurethane formula wins brownie points for less odor and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). So, it’s an excellent choice for those suffering from hypersomnia or smell sensitivity.
What’s more, you won’t have to worry about drips or spills as it’s easy to clean. All you need to do is use soap with water to scrub the surface, and you’re done.
Over and above that, you get the freedom to choose your preferred color as the brand offers the paint in four options - clear/amber, sand, light gray, and white. The best part is that it contains a traction additive, which isn’t harsh, unlike other paints.
What’s There To Like About It?
I’ll be honest that I was allured by its claims of providing secure footing on wet surfaces, which is why I bought one. After using it on my trailer, I can confidently say that this paint fulfills its promises and provides excellent traction on slippery and wet surfaces.
And since it’s a water-based formula, I don’t have to spend much effort cleaning the drips or spills, which is a bonus.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Although it withstands the elements and makes the surface resistant to slipping, this paint covers an area of only about 40 sq. ft. So, if you wish to paint a large trailer, I suggest you order a few extra cans to pull off the task without any difficulty. But if you don’t want to overspend, you can go for the Krylon Farm & Implement Paint as it offers more coverage.
Pros and Cons of RTG Deck, Porch, & Patio Anti-Slip Paint
Pros
Cons
- Fast-drying, textured paint provides an attractive finish & secure footing on exterior surfaces that become slippery when wet. Great for decks, porches, patios, stairs, ramps, and much more. Traction additive is not abrasive like other anti-slip coatings.
- Easy to apply by brush or roller (1/4"-3/8" foam or nap roller cover for surfaces with a smoother texture; ½"-3/4" foam or nap roller covers for masonry with deeper texture).
- Durable coating withstands heavy foot traffic and harsh weather without fading.
5. Valspar Tractor & Implement Enamel
Looking for a paint that matches Original Equipment Manufacture colors? Then the Valspar Tractor & Implement Enamel is ideal for your needs. Available in a one-quart can, it provides outstanding protection against rust, chipping, fading, and abrasion, making it an excellent pick for your trailer.
Product Highlights
Specifically designed for use on farm equipment and machinery, this premium-quality enamel boasts a high-gloss finish that lasts for the coming years. What’s particularly impressive is that this formula is free from mercury and lead, so it won’t trigger allergies to those sensitive to chemicals.
Furthermore, this heavy-duty enamel offers resistance to fading, chipping, abrasion, and rust. Of course, it can also withstand the blinding snow and the blazing sun, so its durability is outstanding.
Available in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) colors, you can order either JD yellow or transport yellow to coat your trailer. Besides adding beauty, it will provide long-lasting protection, so you can go on your adventures worry-free.
Another noteworthy feature is that it is easy to apply and offers excellent coverage while preventing runs and sags. And it dries reasonably faster without using a hardener, which is the cherry on the cake!
What’s There To Like About It?
I was introduced to this enamel by my father, who uses it for coating his favorite yellow trailer because of its heavy-duty performance and durability. Believe it or not, this paint stands up to rain, snow, and UV rays excellently, and that’s why I have recommended it to my neighbor Sam.
What’s more, I appreciate that the brand has formulated it without adding mercury or lead, so it doesn’t trigger my allergies.
What’s There Not To Like About It?
Considering its longevity and functionality, it is one of the best options for coating your rusted trailer. However, my only gripe is that the brand doesn’t offer its product in various sizes or packs, unlike the Krylon Farm & Implement Paint or POR-15 Rust Preventative Paint. Thus, you’ll have to order two to three cans for your painting needs.
Pros and Cons of Valspar Tractor & Implement Enamel
Pros
Cons
- Available in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) colors
- Provides heavy-duty performance
- Rust and fade resistant
Buyers Guide
Now that you know the five best trailer paint, were you able to choose one? Certainly, not! Although knowing the top options helps to a great extent, picking the right one is a mind-boggling task.
Surely, most of them appear identical in consistency and texture, but they differ in quality and performance. And that’s why it’s crucial to understand the factors that you should look for before buying trailer paint, regardless of the brand you’re going for.
Hence, I’ve put together a buyer’s guide to walk you through the important factors that you must consider before purchasing trailer paint.
1. Color
Needless to say, the color you choose to paint your trailer can make or break its look, and that’s why I suggest choosing it carefully. Those who wish to match their trailer with the truck or wagon should go for Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) colors, or it will look out of sync.
On the other hand, you should opt for lighter colors, such as white if durability tops your list. Moreover, they are easy to maintain and resistant to contamination, so you can never go wrong with them.
Also, refrain from using darker colors because they are prone to UV damage and wear more quickly than anticipated.
2. Type Of Finish
As you already know, trailer paint comes in three finishes - gloss, semi-gloss and matte. Of course, there’s no straightforward answer to the finish you should choose because it depends upon your preferences.
Matte finish paints collect a lot of impurities and are difficult to clean, so they might not be ideal for trailers that commute daily. Contrarily, glossy paints are easy to clean and fill in dents and imperfections, giving you a bump-free surface.
However, if you want something that’s neither too glossy nor matte, going for a semi-gloss finish will be the best bet. Not only are they easy to clean, but they are also resistant to moisture, so you can consider them for your trailer.
3. Curing Time
While some paints may cure within a few hours, others may take about 56 to 72 hours to dry completely.
Regardless of being a professional or DIYer, I suggest going for a quick curing formula so that your trailer will be ready for use within hours. Note that curing time is important because you cannot use the vehicle unless the paint has thoroughly dried up, or it will tamper with the bonds and affect the durability.
So, consider how much time you can spare for the paint to completely bond with the surface and then purchase the one that fits the bill.
4. Durability
Irrespective of how expensive or affordable paint you go for, it will wear out after a certain period. And not everyone is fortunate enough to have a garage for their trailers which means they are exposed to the elements all the time.
So, if you’re looking for long-lasting paint, you should go for the one that offers excellent resistance against rain, UV rays, and other elements along with rust. For that reason, I suggest going for non-porous paints as they spare no effort to protect dirt, moisture, and other contaminants from getting absorbed into the surface.
5. Ease Of Use
What if you spend hundreds of dollars on paint only to discover that it’s formulated for professional use? Of course, it’s a dreaded nightmare for every homeowner!
So, when you’re shopping for paints, make sure to look for options that are easy to use so that you don’t break into a sweat during application. There are plenty of brands whose paints don’t require primers which means they are ready to use straight out of the box.
If you’re a novice or a DIYer, I suggest going for such paints because you won’t have to spend hours preparing the surface for coating it.
6. Safe And Non-Toxic
If you have children or pets at home, you should be extra cautious when choosing paint. That’s because most of the options on the market are packed with VOCs, mercury, lead, and other contaminants that can trigger allergic reactions or lead to respiratory issues if inhaled.
Hence, it’s advisable to go through the description of the product thoroughly to ensure whether it contains toxic ingredients or not. And in case you don’t find adequate information about the components used, check if it’s made in the USA or not. That’s because they are formulated using non-toxic ingredients, so you won’t have to worry about your safety.
7. Price
Last but not least, price is another crucial factor to consider when shopping for trailer paint. You don’t have to spend a fortune to buy a premium-grade product because plenty of brands supply them at reasonable rates.
For that, you’ll have to do a bit of research to find out which product offers more despite its affordable price tag. Also, make sure you prepare a budget to ensure you don’t overspend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Though priming a surface is important before painting, it depends on the brand you go for. That’s why I suggest you go through the user manual to know whether you can skip the primer or not.
Surely, you can paint directly over rust, but you’ll have to prep the surface properly before coating it.
My Final Recommendation
Whether you use them for camping or hauling goods, it’s important to keep trailers in pristine condition. And for that, you need heavy-duty paint that will survive the harsh weather, rust, corrosion, chipping, flaking, and abrasion.Â
Hopefully, my recommendations helped you learn a thing or two about the best trailer paint, and I’m sure you’ll make an informed choice.Â
With that, I’ve reached the end of my review-based guide. But before I call it a day, let me share my favorites from the list.Â
It isn’t surprising that the POR-15 Rust Preventative Paint is my top pick because of its durable coating and self-leveling formula. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Rust-Oleum Hammered Metal Finish is the best bet.Â
And that’s it for today. Good luck!Â