When the question of spray paints arises, it all comes down to VHT vs Rust-Oleum high heat. High heat spray paints take a lot of time and effort to set properly. And for years now, both products have been known to be 2 of the best paints.
While both products have to be used in the same manner, they differ greatly in characteristics. In the end, it is observed that rust-oleum high heat serves better and more accurate results than VHT.
VHT vs Rustoleum High Heat- Brief Comparison
VHT spray paint is mostly used on cars and other vehicles. It comes in a huge range of colors. The high heat paint temperature ranges from 1300°F- 2000°F.
Applications of VHT generally include headers, piston domes, exhaust manifolds and others.
Rust-Oleum high heat spray is commonly used by most people. It is mostly used for grills, engines, wood-burning stoves and other metal items.
While rust-oleum does have limitations in color, it helps retain color. Rust-oleum can finish up to 1200°F and provides great rust protection.
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VHT
VHT, Very High Heat, flameproof spray paint lives up to its name. It can withstand up to 2000°F.
VHT offers a variety of products.
They have sectioned their products into 4 parts. This helps customers choose exactly the paint that they need.
Products
The 4 sections of their products are:
- High heat coatings: This section is known to contain the toughest of their products. They can withstand a temperature of 2000°F. Products vary from wheel, caliper, engine to chassis application.
- Specialty products: Specialty products contain a variety of colors. Not only that, they have products specifically for rust, weather or certain parts of any automotive project.
- Premium general purpose: These come in 2 coatings. Prime and quick coat. These products are great for metal, glass or plastic surfaces.
- Motorsport coatings: The motorsport coatings as suggested by its name are for motorcycle engines. The black oxide case and barrel spray paint help stop rust and corrosion in the worst of weather.
Rustoleum High Heat
Rust-Oleum high heat is mostly used to prevent rust, renew and protect a surface from periodic heating. Rust-Oleum has very limited color options.
Rust-Oleum is an oil-based formula. It can protect metal surfaces that are subjected to heat up to 1000°F.
It retains excellent color after heating and provides a rich satin finish.
Although rust-oleum has not sectioned its products like VHT, it does provide a variety of spray paints. From textured to coating to protective enamel, rust-oleum has it all.
How To Apply
While VHT and Rust-Oleum differ is several characteristics, both have to be applied in the same manner. Proper application of the paint is essential to get the best result. If not applied properly, the paint will not set and may chip off of the surface.
Here are some steps to follow for the appropriate application of the paint.
Step 1: Prepare The Surface
Wash the surface with detergent and remove any dirt, oil or grease that may be present. Rinse the detergent off with water and let the surface dry.
Sand off any rust or loose paint that may be present by using sandpaper.
Step 2: Proper Environment
Paint your object in a well-ventilated outdoor area. A temperature between 50°F and 90°F with a humidity of about 85% will ensure proper drying.
Do not spray in extreme windy or dusty conditions.
Step 3: Use Primer
Primer is generally recommended for metal surfaces. The use of primer will add protection from any corrosion and better adhesion.
Step 4: Apply The Paint
Shake the can vigorously before use. Shake well before every application. Keep the spray can in motion while spraying.
Step 5: Dry Before Recoat
Always let the previous coat dry before recoating. It takes about 30 minutes to an hour for one coat to dry. Recoat after an hour.
Step 6: Cure
Paint must be completely dry before moving on to cure it.
Heat the surface at 250°F for about 30 minutes and let it cool for another 30 minutes. Heat it again at 400°F for 30 minutes and let it cool again for 30 minutes.
Lastly, heat it at 600°F and let it cool again for 30 minutes.
VHT vs Rustoleum High Heat- Which One Is Better
Now that we have seen all of the features of both the spray paints, the main question remains. Which one is better?
While VHT provides much higher heat and a huge array of colors, it does not have a good reputation. Quite often users share their dissatisfaction with the product.
The paint is seen to discolor after a short while. The discoloration is also followed by the flaking out of the paint. Even after following all steps to their best, the color does not seem to hold up most of the time.
Yes, there are outcomes where the paint has been set and done perfectly. However, it is very rare. Almost 8 out of 10 times is the paint seen to flake off.
VHT paint is also silica based. This could cause the fumes from the silica to be dangerous and harmful.
Rust-Oleum high heat, even at a lower temperature and variety of colors, is everyone’s go-to spray paint. Users have shared that the process is very easy and the finished product is just how they wanted it to be.
The paint does chip off at a certain point. But it takes about 6 months for it to happen. You can reapply the paint once that happens.
Overall, rust-oleum is seen to have better results than VHT. Even with the same process, rust-oleum finishes better and lasts a long time. Thus, rust-oleum is better than VHT.
FAQs
Which Color Is Best As Heat Resistant Paint?
For heat resistance, colors such as white, grey, orange are used. However, aluminum is the most commonly used color for heat resistant paints.
How Long Should I Dry High Heat Spray Paint?
The spray paint needs to be dried for about an hour before heating. The paint then needs to be heated and dried at every 30 minute interval for best results.
Is Curing High Heat Paint Necessary?
Yes, high heat paint needs to be cured to increase durability. The paint has to be cured by applying heat in a baking manner. Otherwise, the paint will not set and flake off.
How Many Coats Of Spray Paint Should I Use?
When spray painting, light coats are better than heavier ones. At least 2 to 3 light coats are necessary. Applying it from different angles will make sure proper coverage is received.
How Long To Wait Before Every Coat Of Paint?
It is advised to wait for about 5 to 10 minutes before applying the next coat. Each coat of paint will dry within 5 minutes but it is best to wait for about 10 minutes to be safe.
The Bottom Line
Amongst the best of the high heat paints, we have compared 2 of the most valuable ones. VHT vs Rust-Oleum High Heat has been a common question for all.
After a thorough breakdown of both of their features, it turns out that rust-oleum high heat can give the best results. But don’t forget to follow the steps stated before properly. With any high heat paint, it is essential to follow the steps to the T.
We hope you now know which paint to choose and how to correctly apply them. Goodbye!
