Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to remove rust from metal before I use Rust Doctor?
A: No. Rust Doctor can be painted directly over rusty metal.
Q: Do I need to remove rust from metal before I use Rust Doctor?
A: No. Rust Doctor can be painted directly over rusty metal. If there is flaky rust, it should be removed.
Q: How does the Rust Doctor work?
A: Rust Doctor chemically converts the rust to magnetite. Magnetite is a very hard form of iron oxide that protects the metal from future rusting. A latex primer remains on the surface to allow for top coating.
Q: How do you apply Rust Doctor?
A: Rust Doctor can be applied with a brush, roller or sprayed.
Q: Do I need to thin Rust Doctor before I use it?
A: No. Whether you paint or brush Rust Doctor, you should not thin the product. Use it just the way it comes from the container.
Q: How long does it take for Rust Doctor to dry?
A: Rust Doctor is dry to touch in about 30 minutes and can be topcoated after curing for 16 to 24 hours.
Q: How do I clean up after using Rust Doctor?
A: Soap and water is the only thing you need to clean your brush or spray equipment. While still tacky, you can remove Rust Doctor with a wet rag. After is has dried, Rust Doctor can be removed with lacquer thinner.
Q: Do I need to worry about strong fumes when I use Rust Doctor in an enclosed space?
A: No. Rust Doctor is a latex based product that does not contain strong acids or solvents. Because there are not solvents, strong fumes are not a problem. When using spray equipment, a mask is recommended to avoid breathing the spray mist.
Q: Do I need to sand Rust Doctor after it dries?
A: No. Once the Rust Doctor has converted the rust to magnetite and the primer has dried, the surface is ready for top coating. If you desire a smoother surface, sand the rusty metal as smooth as you want it before applying Rust Doctor. Another option to obtain a smoother surface is to use several coats of sanding primer after the Rust Doctor has cured. Two coats of Rust Doctor will greatly improve the smoothness of a rusty surface.
Q: When painted metal has been outside and there is rust coming through the painted steel, do you just knock off all the loose particles then apply Rust Doctor over everything?
A: On painted steel that is showing rust, you will need to remove any loose paint to expose the rust underneath. Rust Doctor must come in contact with the rust in order to convert it to the non-rusting black iron oxide called magnetite. You can the paint over the entire surface to stop any rust anywhere on the surface. Even the smallest nick in the paint will contain rust and Rust Doctor will eliminate the rust. In addition to stopping the rust, Rust Doctor leaves a clear primer on the entire surface you treated so you can top coat without priming.
Q: What paints can I apply over Rust Doctor?
A: Virtually any kind of paint can be used to topcoat Rust Doctor. This includes epoxies and enamels.
Q: What kind of coverage can I expect when I use Rust Doctor?
A: Generally with a heavy coat of Rust Doctor applied on heavy rust, you can expect to cover 50 square feet with one quart. The gallon covers 200 square feet. If metal has light surface rust, you may get better coverage. It is important to apply enough Rust Doctor to completely cover the rust. On heavy rust, it may take two coats. (apply the second coat while the first coat is still tacky.)