Corroseal Water Based Rust Converter

Transform Rusty Surfaces with this Powerful Rust Converter

Rust is the natural enemy of metal. Left unchecked, it can quickly spread and cause damage to metal surfaces. Removing rust entirely is difficult and requires completely stripping the surface down to bare metal. However, there is an easier solution – converting the rust into a paintable surface using a rust converter.

Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter is one of the most popular and effective rust converters available. This buying guide will explore everything you need to know about this transformative product.

What is Corroseal Water Based Rust Converter?

Corroseal is a water-based rust converter that changes rust (iron oxide) into a stable, black polymeric compound. It stops the rusting process and prepares the surface for protective coatings.

Rust converters work by reacting with the rust itself. The phosphoric acid in Corroseal converts reddish iron oxide into ferric phosphate, a hard, black substance that halts rust growth.

Corroseal bonds tightly with topcoats to produce a layered barrier against moisture and further corrosion. It dries to a paintable finish that won’t wash off easily.

How Does Corroseal Rust Converter Work?

Corroseal’s active ingredient is phosphoric acid, which reacts with rust to form a chemical conversion. Here is a breakdown of the rust conversion process:

• Corroseal is applied to a rusted surface.
• The phosphoric acid penetrates the rust and oxidizes it.
• Iron oxide (reddish rust) transforms into iron phosphate, a dark protective finish.
• The iron phosphate surface strongly adheres to paints and primers.
• A tight barrier forms to prevent moisture and oxygen from reaching the metal.
• Rust is stopped in its tracks and prevented from spreading.

By chemically converting rust into an inert substance, Corroseal stabilizes the surface for protective coatings. The process leaves the original surface intact without sanding or scraping.

What Surfaces Can Corroseal Be Used On?

Corroseal can be applied to iron, steel and other ferrous metals. It works on things like:

• Automobiles
• Trailers
• Farm equipment
• Decorative ironwork
• Tools
• Pipes
• Mailboxes
• Railings
• Fire escapes

It performs well on textured or smooth metal that is pitted or scaled with rust. Corroseal penetrates and converts rust efficiently on a range of surfaces. It is not recommended for non-ferrous metals.

How to Apply Corroseal Rust Converter

Applying Corroseal is a straightforward process:

1. Clean surface – Remove dirt, grease, oil and loose rust particles.
2. Apply Corroseal liberally with brush or roller.
3. Allow to dry for 24 hours. Surface turns from yellow to black as it cures.
4. Apply primer then paint if desired. Corroseal leaves a paintable finish.
5. Reapply annually or as needed to maintain protection.

2-3 thin coats are better than 1 thick coat for a smooth, even finish. Stir or agitate Corroseal before and during application.

Where Can I Buy Corroseal Rust Converter?

Corroseal is sold at most hardware stores, home centers and online retailers including:

• Home Depot
• Lowe’s
• Ace Hardware
• True Value
• Amazon
• Walmart

It is widely available in 1-gallon containers that cover up to 500 sq. ft. Corroseal also comes in 16 oz spray bottles for small jobs.

Industrial sizes like 5-gallon pails can be found at paint stores or ordered through manufacturers.

What is the Price Range for Corroseal?

Corroseal is competitively priced with other leading rust converters. Retail prices are approximately:

• $20-30 for a 16 oz spray bottle
• $50-70 for a 1-gallon container
• $100-200 for a 5-gallon pail

Larger industrial sizes offer cost savings on bigger projects. Sales and promotions can also lower the price at major retailers.

Overall, Corroseal provides excellent value for performance based on its efficient rust conversion ability. The cost per square foot is quite reasonable.

How Long Does Corroseal Take to Dry?

Drying times for Corroseal depend on various factors:

• Temperature – Dries faster in warm conditions
• Humidity – High humidity slows drying
• Air Circulation – Breezy conditions accelerate drying
• Coats Applied – More coats lengthen drying time

Under normal conditions, Corroseal dries tack free in 30-60 minutes. It is fully cured in 24 hours. Curing completes the chemical reaction that stabilizes the surface.

Allow sufficient drying time before recoating. Humid conditions may require longer drying. The surface should be dry to the touch before painting.

Is Corroseal Rust Converter Safe to Use?

When used as directed, Corroseal is safe for DIYers and professionals. It contains phosphoric acid which can irritate skin and eyes. Therefore, standard safety measures should be taken:

• Work in a well-ventilated area
• Wear protective gloves, goggles and clothing
• Wash exposed skin immediately if contact occurs
• Keep away from children and pets

The dried finish is low-odor and non-toxic. Overall, Corroseal is safer than many harsh rust removers. It can be handled safely by following the manufacturer’s precautions.

What are the Ingredients in Corroseal?

Corroseal contains:

• Phosphoric acid – Converts rust into ferric phosphate polymer
• Polyacrylic emulsions – Bind and encapsulate the converted layer
• Proprietary additives – Enhance performance and properties

It is water-based for easy cleanup and low odor. Corroseal is non-flammable and low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The active phosphoric acid ingredient concentration is about 15-20%. Corroseal is classified as non-hazardous when used properly.

How to Prepare a Surface for Corroseal Application

Proper surface prep helps Corroseal achieve maximum performance:

• Remove loose paint and rust with wire brush or scraper
• Clean area with water and mild detergent
• Rinse thoroughly and let dry fully
• Sand glossy surfaces to improve adhesion
• Wipe down with denatured alcohol to degrease
• Spot prime bare steel areas with a rust inhibitive primer
• Test product on a small area first

Preparing the surface allows Corroseal to soak deeply into rust and bonded rust layers. This enables full conversion and binding.

Can Corroseal be Painted Over?

The converted surface should be coated for best results. Once fully cured, Corroseal leaves a protective finish ready for paints and primers:

• Most latex and oil-based paints adhere well
• Compatible with epoxies, urethanes, lacquers and others
• Provides excellent adhesion promotion for topcoats
• Ideal base layer for automotive paint jobs

For long term protection, applying 2-3 paint coats over Corroseal is recommended. Chalky paints may require priming first. Always test paint compatibility.

What are the Reviews for Corroseal?

With decades of proven performance, Corroseal earns high praise in reviews:

• “Works faster and better than other rust converters. Surfaced looked nearly new after painting over it.”
• “Easy to apply and cleaned up easily. Rust was completely converted and halted on my truck.”
• “Much less mess and scraping than wire wheels. Saved me tons of work and time. Vehicle parts look professionally restored.”
• “Does exactly what it claims. Rust troubles are over thanks to this stuff.”

Corroseal consistently receives 4+ star ratings from DIYers and professionals. Most reviews mention excellent value, performance and ease of use.

How to Store Corroseal Properly

To maintain quality and effectiveness:

• Store upright in original container only
• Keep container tightly sealed
• Do not allow product to freeze
• Shelf life is 2 years from manufacture date
• Maintain temperatures of 40-100° F

Before using, inspect that Corroseal is liquid and homogeneous. Stir thoroughly and do not mix with other chemicals. Proper storage keeps the active ingredients stable.

Does Corroseal Require a Primer?

Corroseal does not require a separate primer in most cases. Its converted surface has priming abilities that help paints adhere.

However, for added protection:

• Spot prime bare steel areas first
• Use an alkaline-resistant primer for concrete
• Highly textured surfaces may need an intermediate primer coat
• Primer improves adhesion on glossy or non-ferrous metals

In general, the converted surface has excellent painting properties without a separate primer. But extra priming can be beneficial in some situations.

How Effective is Corroseal Rust Converter?

With consistent results on a wide range of rusty surfaces, Corroseal provides highly effective rust conversion:

• Stops and prevents further rust better than other leading brands
• Smooth, paintable finish for long term protection
• Maintains max strength of up to 800 hours salt spray testing
• Up to 3X thicker coverage than competing converters
• Bonds strongly to topcoats like paints and powders
• Lasts through years of seasonal temperature cycling

Independent lab testing proves that Corroseal offers a superior level of corrosion protection compared to competitors. It’s no surprise that it remains a top seller after over 55 years on the market.

Can Corroseal Be Used on Vehicles?

Yes, Corroseal is an excellent rust treatment for automobiles and other vehicles:

• Converts rust on car bodies, frames, rocker panels, and more
• Restores the look of classic cars, hot rods, and antique vehicles
• Stops rust growth on tractor and farm implements, trailers, construction equipment
• Ideal for DIY restorations and auto body shop jobs

Corroseal saves time and money compared to scraping and sanding procedures. It provides professional-grade rust remediation for all types of automotive surfaces.

Follow with a high-quality primer and paint finish for best auto body results. Corroseal is a crucial step in auto rust repair.

What are Common Issues with Corroseal?

When used correctly, Corroseal performs extremely well. However, here are some potential issues to avoid:

• Slow drying – Caused by applying too heavily or in humid conditions. Use thin coats.
• Peeling or flaking – From inadequate surface prep or topcoating before fully cured.
• Limited surface change – Result of not removing loose rust before application.
• Discoloration or streaking – Due to uneven application technique. Apply evenly.
• Rust returns – Because of inadequate coating over the converted surface. Use a primer and paint.
• Metallic residues – Reaction with certain metal alloys. Test on a small area first.

Proper application is key. Corroseal works best when directions are followed.

How to Clean Up After Using Corroseal

Clean tools and surfaces promptly after application:

• Wipe up spills and overspray with rags before drying
• Rinse application tools with water
• Wash skin and clothing with soap and water
• Follow manufacturer’s safety recommendations for contact

Soap and water are effective for fresh Corroseal. Dried residue requires stronger solvents like alcohol or lacquer thinner.

Properly dispose of used rags, as they can self-ignite. Corroseal cleanup is easy with immediate attention.

What is the Shelf Life of Corroseal?

Corroseal has a 2 year shelf life when stored properly in unopened containers.

Check the product for the following before use:

• Manufacture date – Do not use if expired
• Liquid state – Should not be gelled or separated
• Color – Must be blue, not darkened
• Consistency – Should be uniform, no clumps
• Container – Tightly sealed, not damaged

Batch testing is recommended after 2 years to ensure adequate phosphoric acid levels. Discard if Corroseal does not meet specifications.

Are There Any Alternatives to Corroseal?

Corroseal is a top performing rust converter, but here are a few comparable options:

• FDC Rust Converter – Also phosphoric acid-based. Lower price but may require more coats.
• Loctite Naval Jelly – Contains oxalic acid. Good for small projects. Lower rust resistance.
• Rust-Oleum Rust Reformer – Fast drying and easy to apply. Good short-term protection.
• 3M Phosphoric Acid – Pure phosphoric solution. Higher concentration for severe rust.
• Eastwood Rust Converter -specially formulated for auto bodies. More expensive.

While other converters are available, Corroseal remains a leader for its effective formulation, easy application, and value.

Transform Rusty Surfaces with Corroseal

Over 50 years of proven results confirm that Corroseal Water-Based Rust Converter lives up to its reputation. This versatile product offers a simple, cost-effective solution for stopping rust in its tracks.

Corroseal’s water-based phosphoric acid formula converts rust into a tight black layer ready for paints and coatings. It saves time and labor compared to extensive scraping and sanding.

By following the instructions, both DIYers and professionals can permanently halt rust on a variety of surfaces. The results speak for themselves.

Bring new life back to rusty metal surfaces with the transformative power of Corroseal Rust Converter!