F.A.Q.
What are Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® Coatings?
Everbrite, Inc. manufactures and distributes products to restore, rejuvenate, seal and protect metals and other substrates.
Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® coatings restore and protect ferrous and non-ferrous metals,painted metals, alloys, anodized aluminum, polished metals, plated metals, as well as seal and protect rusted metal and metals with patinas. Everbrite™ coatings also protect woods, hard plastics, vinyl, fiberglass & other substrates.
Everbrite™ coatings are not cross-linked and can be maintained indefinitely. These unique, crystal clear coatings are easily removable, repairable, and are self annealing. They are thin, tough, durable, and practically invisible, allowing the beauty of metal to show through.
Everbrite™ Coatings restore the color and luster to dull, faded substrates and have excellent protection properties to shield metals from UV, salts, moisture, corrosion, acid rain and rust. The length of time between repair and/or re-coating depends on the substrate, amount of use, and exposure to the elements. For example, a polished railing in constant use will need more attention than curtain wall.
Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® are one-part, clear, protective coatings made up of a blend of polymer resins in a solvent base with additives to protect metals from oxidation and UV.
There are several formulations of each coating; formulations that can be mailed by air and formulations that are low-VOC and comply with even the most stringent environmental regulations. These low-VOC formulations are considered ‘green’ coatings.
Available in a Natural gloss finish as well as Satin and Matte finishes.
Both Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® have excellent adhesion on all types of metal and some types of plastics, vinyls and other substrates. Excellent adhesion on even highly polished metals with no loss of gloss.
They are homogenous, one-part coatings so there is nothing to mix and the coatings will not separate. The additives in the Satin and Matte finish can settle and need to be mixed before application.
Everbrite™ is suitable for internal or external use as a non-toxic, anti-corrosion protection for ferrous and non-ferrous metals, galvanized, anodized and painted surfaces. It can also be used on concrete, stone, wood and fiberglass.
ProtectaClear® is recommended for metal that gets a lot of use like railings, hardware, countertops or metal that gets a lot of handling.
Everbrite™ coatings have indefinite shelf life in a closed container so there is no waste. Satin formulations can settle and need to be mixed completely before use.
Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® are non-conductive coatings and will prevent corrosion caused by dis-similar metals.
Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® will remain flexible so they will not chip, crack or peel. They will not discolor or yellow with exposure or heat.
Everbrite™ will refinish faded surfaces and restore the original color and protect from sun fading, salt air oxidation, moisture damage, tarnish, acid rain and other damaging elements. ProtectaClear® is a thinner coating that contains resins that are scratch resistant.
Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® are self annealing, the coating will blend to itself and can be maintained indefinitely.
Everbrite™ Coatings are NOT like lacquers or urathanes that will yellow and discolor with exposure to the sun.
While other clear coats may be U.V.stable, many do not have the U.V. absorbers in them that protect the colors behind the coating like Everbrite™. Everbrite™ has U.V. absorbers and Anti-oxidants to protect the metal or paint behind the clear coating from discoloration and corrosion.
What problems do Everbrite™ Coatings solve?
Sun can cause paint to fail, causing chalking and fading. Salt air can corrode metal causing rust and ugly corrosion. Acid rain can cause permanent damage to metal and stone. Metals like copper, brass, bronze will tarnish, stainless steel will rust and corrode.
Everbrite™ refinishes faded and dull surfaces to look like new again and protect them against sun fading, salt air corrosion, acid rain, tarnishing, moisture and other damaging elements for years. Protected surfaces will be much easier to keep clean as dust and dirt cannot penetrate the paint or hang on the oxidation. Graffiti can be cleaned off of the protected surface and the paint will remain protected. Everbrite™ is formulated for exterior metal or painted metals as well as most interior metals as well. Use Everbrite™ on any metal that is exposed to alcohols, even hand sanitizers.
ProtectaClear® prevents tarnish and oxidation on plated metals, copper, brass, silver, anodized steel, stainless steel, etc. The metal must be polished or cleaned first, all traces of polish residue must be removed and then ProtectaClear® can be applied to seal the surface. ProtectaClear® is formulated for metal exposed to salts and chlorines and for metal that gets a lot of use like railings or jewelry. ProtectaClear® has resins that are highly resistant to salts and chlorines. ProtectaClear® keeps unpainted metal looking like it is freshly polished. Metal polished to a satin finish will retain the satin look.
How do I know if a surface can be restored?
For painted surfaces or anodized aluminum, you can test the surface to see if it can be restored. Clean an area and observe it when it is clean and wet. If the color and luster come back when the surface is clean and wet, then that is how the surface will look refinished with Everbrite™.
How are Everbrite™ Coatings applied?
Everbrite™ or ProtectaClear® can be applied by painting on with a natural bristled or solvent rated brush, gliding it on with an applicator pad or a lint-free cloth, rolling on with a high-density foam roller, spraying on the coating or dipping the object into the coating.
Refinishing with Everbrite™ Coatings is a simple 2 step process. First, the surface is cleaned and any polish or cleaner residue is removed. Second, the Coating is applied to refinish and protect the surface.
Everbrite™ Coatings can be applied by rolling the coating on with high-density foam rollers, spraying, dipping, and painting on with a natural fiber brush or a poly sponge brush or simply applied on the surface with an applicator.
Everbrite™ Coatings are one part coatings so there is nothing to mix. They are self leveling and are very easy to work with.
At what temperature can Everbrite™ be applied?
Everbrite™ Protective Coating can be applied in temperatures from approximately 40o F up to 100o F. Since the metal needs to be cleaned and dry, the temperature should not be below freezing.
More important than the air temperature is the temperature of the metal. On very cool days, you may want to work on the sun side to avoid runs or sags. On warm days, working in the shade is better so the coating can self-level before drying. It is not advisable to apply the coating on metal that is too hot to keep your hand on for more than a few seconds.Condensation easily and rapidly forms on any surface. This is especially true of metal. Whenever air is cooled to its dew point, condensation occurs. Since the “dew point” always varies, it’s impossible to have a set temperature as a guide.We have all experienced dew forming on a cold bottle while the outside air is quite warm. Therefore, the difference between outside air, the relative humidity, and the temperature of the substrate to be coated must all be factors in determining whether to coat or not.One useful method, but not absolutely foolproof, is to hold your hand against the substrate for a few seconds, then remove it. If moisture is visible where you have removed your hand it is definitely too cold. Either wait until it gets warmer or use a heater or blow dryer to prepare the substrate.
If the coating is sprayed over dew or water, it will float on the moisture and will not adhere to the metal.
How is the surface cleaned?
Surfaces like metal siding or metal buildings or roofs can be power washed but hand scrubbing is recommended to remove chalk, dirt, any wax or grease, or any other contaminating or dirtying agents. Storage doors are normally hand washed because people have their cardboard boxes stacked right up to the edge of their space and the seals are not tight. Remove all chalk and oxidation, rinse well and make sure that water does not bead up on the surface. If it does, that means there is still soap or wax or oily residue on the surface. The water should sheet off of a painted surface and not bead up.
Click here for cleaning directions for metal buildings and roll-up doors.
Surfaces such as brass, silver, copper or other non painted metals should be cleaned or polished and must be neutralized if cleaned with an acid cleaner. Then the cleaned, neutralized metal should be wiped with xylene or denatured alcohol to insure all contaminates are removed. The solvent for the final wipe cannot be shipped from Everbrite and can be found at hardware stores. Xylene or Denatured Alcohol are clean solvents that do not contain oil or other substances. Lacquer thinner is not recommended because it can contain oils that can contaminate the surface.
IF THE SURFACE IS CLEANED WITH AN ACID CLEANER, THE SURFACE MUST BE NEUTRALIZED BEFORE APPLYING THE COATING. Use EZ Prep Cleaner & Neutralizer or calcium carbonate or a baking soda wash to neutralize the acid. Water rinsing will not remove all of the acid. The acid can react with the solvent that is the carrier for the resin coating and will create problems such as black streaks.
How is the surface cleaned?
Surfaces like metal siding or metal buildings or roofs can be power washed but hand scrubbing is recommended to remove chalk, dirt, any wax or grease, or any other contaminating or dirtying agents. Storage doors are normally hand washed because people have their cardboard boxes stacked right up to the edge of their space and the seals are not tight. Remove all chalk and oxidation, rinse well and make sure that water does not bead up on the surface. If it does, that means there is still soap or wax or oily residue on the surface. The water should sheet off of a painted surface and not bead up.
Click here for cleaning directions for metal buildings and roll-up doors.
Surfaces such as brass, silver, copper or other non painted metals should be cleaned or polished and must be neutralized if cleaned with an acid cleaner. Then the cleaned, neutralized metal should be wiped with xylene or denatured alcohol to insure all contaminates are removed. The solvent for the final wipe cannot be shipped from Everbrite and can be found at hardware stores. Xylene or Denatured Alcohol are clean solvents that do not contain oil or other substances. Lacquer thinner is not recommended because it can contain oils that can contaminate the surface.
IF THE SURFACE IS CLEANED WITH AN ACID CLEANER, THE SURFACE MUST BE NEUTRALIZED BEFORE APPLYING THE COATING. Use EZ Prep Cleaner & Neutralizer or calcium carbonate or a baking soda wash to neutralize the acid. Water rinsing will not remove all of the acid. The acid can react with the solvent that is the carrier for the resin coating and will create problems such as black streaks.
What is the shelf life for Everbrite™ Coatings?
Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear®have an indefinite shelf life in a closed container. Unlike 2 part coatings which are wasted if not used in a short time once mixed, there is nothing to mix. This means that if you get interrupted while applying the coating, simply pour the unused Coating back into the container, put the top on and you can resume where you left off at another time. ***Do not pour contaminated coating back into the original container. Do not allow the coating to freeze.
How often do the coatings need to be reapplied?
On exterior applications on painted metal, Everbrite™ will need to be reapplied when the surface starts to look dull. Depending on the elements and U.V. exposure, this will be about 5 to 10 years. On homes where awnings or foliage shade the home, only the sides exposed to the sun would need to be refinished.
On fiberglass, Everbrite™ will have to be reapplied every 1 to 3 years. The number of years of protection vary by the intensity of the damaging elements and use of the surface.
On brass, copper, bronze, stainless steel etc. the length of time will depend on the usage and elements it is exposed to. On interior applications, the metal will not need re-application of ProtectaClear® for many years unless it gets a lot of wear. (For example, copper sinks or counter-tops will need more frequent applications than lamps.)
Why not just paint metal buildings and rollup doors?
In many cases, metal surfaces are repainted simply because they have become dull and faded. Refinishing with Everbrite™ is less expensive, faster, easier and achieves more permanent results than repainting.
Because many of the additives that used to make paint last (like lead) have been removed from paint, it will not last as long as it used to. Many times, paint will start to fade again in just a year. Saving your baked on paint or stopping the paint maintenance cycle with paint will save you many hours and dollars as well
Are there surfaces that should not have a coating applied to them?
Do NOT apply Everbrite™ or ProtectaClear® to soft rubber or soft vinyl (like umbrellas or soft awnings) as the solvent can harm them. Solvents will release the plasticisors and the soft vinyl will stay sticky. Vinyl decals or door numbers are fine to coat. Test any plastic in an inconspicuous place first.
Hard vinyl signs and vinyl siding have successfully been refinished with Everbrite™. Always test a small inconspicuous area.
Are there problems that Everbrite™ or ProtectaClear® cannot help?
Everbrite™ or ProtecaClear® cannot help if the surface is already too damaged to be restored. For example, once salt air oxidation is so bad that the metal is extremely pitted or rusted, or if there is no paint left on the surface. Peeling paint must be repaired prior to being coated with Everbrite™. It is best to protect property prior to extreme damage.
Everbrite™ will prevent acid rain damage but nothing can fix it once the surface is etched and stained.
How can I remove Everbrite™ or ProtectaClear®?
If you mess up the application or get an Everbrite™ Coating on a surface that you didn’t mean to get it on like window glass, the coating can be removed with xylene or other solvents. Make sure to test an area of the surface to make sure that the solvent will not harm it.
The coatings can also be removed with lacquer thinner but if the surface is to be re-coated, a final wipe with denatured alcohol or xylene is necessary to remove the oil in the lacquer thinner.
Where can I buy Everbrite™ or ProtectaClear® products?
Everbrite™, Inc. manufactures Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® and sells direct to consumers. You can buy Everbrite™, ProtectaClear® and other items to help complete your project safely and securely on our Online Store. Click the Green Shop Now Button at the top of the page.
We do not sell Everbrite™ in retail stores because our products are very specialized and the constant training of retail employees would make your cost higher.
You can purchase Everbrite™ Products directly from Everbrite™, Inc. securely on our
safe, encrypted online store or by calling our office during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT) at 916-852-0200. We are happy to help you figure out what you need to complete your project.
We also have distributors in other countries listed in our navigation.
Can Everbrite™ and ProtectaClear® be purchased outside of the U.S.A?
Yes, We have distributors listed by country in our navigation.
If we do not have a distributor in your area, we ship Everbrite™ Products all over the world by US Mail, UPS or by ocean shipping for large amounts. Aerosol cans cannot be shipped by air.
We do have a distributor in Canada. We do ship to Canada from the US. Please be aware that UPS charges a brokerage fee on top of the shipping charges. For a Gallon of coating or less, we recommend U.S. Post Office that does not charge the extra fee.(Aerosol cans cannot be shipped overseas.)
Is ProtectaClear® safe on jewelry to be worn on skin?
Yes, ProtectaClear® is safe on skin and is used by many jewelery designers and manufacturers. ProtectaClear® is practically invisible on polished metal and is used on polished metals and even metal with patina on it.
ProtectaClear® is tough and scratch resistant once it is cured and will protect the skin of the wearer from discoloration as well as protect the copper.
You can visit our
jewelry information page to read more about ProtectaClear®.
What is Xylene and how is it used?
Xylene is a medium grade solvent cleaner that is used to remove residue from copper, brass, and other unpainted metals before coating. Xylene can also be used to remove Everbrite™ or ProtectaClear® coatings from metal surfaces.
Dentatured alcohol can be used instead of xylene for the final solvent wipe prior to coating bare or polished metals but it is not strong enough to remove the coating in most cases.
What do I use to clean up equipment and brushes?
Disposable foam brushes and pads cannot really be cleaned effectively. It is best to discard them.
To clean solvent rated brushes or other equipment like sprayers, you can use xylene or lacquer thinner. Spray tips can be soaked in solvent to clean them.
What does Everbrite™ cost?
Refinishing with Everbrite™ is economical due to the high coverage rate and longevity of the coating. The cost for the material is between 17 and 47 cents per square foot depending on volume. Labor is less expensive than painting because there is no masking necessary.
Can I use Everbrite™ Coatings on grandfather clocks, pendulums, weights etc.?
Yes, ProtectaClear® is recommended for protection of the brass and other components on your clocks. Especially by the ocean where you get salt air corrosion, this is very important. Another benefit is that ProtectaClear® is practically weightless and will not affect the performance. The weight of the dry film is 0.0003 lbs. per square foot.
I coated polished aluminum or copper and when I applied the coating I got black streaks. Why did this happen and how can I fix it?
If the aluminum or other metal was cleaned with an acid based cleaner and was not neutralized, the solvent in the coating reacting with the acid and can cause black streaks. Acid cannot be totally rinsed off with plain water. A solution of EZ Prep Neutralizer and water, or a calcium carbonate, baking soda wash must be used to neutralize it before any solvent based coating is applied. EZ-Prep Cleaner is also a neutralizer and is not as messy as baking soda and water.
How can I tell if a painted surface can be restored?
For painted surfaces, you can test the surface to see if it can be restored. Clean an area and observe it when it is clean and wet. If the color and luster come back when the surface is clean and wet, then that is how the surface will look refinished with Everbrite™.
Sometimes Formica and other surfaces are too far gone to restore. If the surface does not look the way you want when it is clean and wet, unfortunately, nothing cannot restore the surface.
Should I apply Everbrite™ when my metal buildings or roll-up doors are new?
Most new metal buildings or rollup doors are coated with a coating which will usually burn off in 2 to 3 years. It is best to wait until this coating is gone before refinishing and protecting with Everbrite™.
The exception to this is if protection is necessary from salt air or acid rain. If it is necessary to coat metal with a coating, it is necessary to remove the coating for good adhesion of the Everbrite™.
If a silicone based product (like Pledge) has been used on the metal, all silicone must be removed prior to coating or painting the surface.
Can I use it for treating copper cookware? Is it harmful?
ProtectaClear® is food safe when it is cured. Do you use this cookware often or is it mainly decorative? If you use whisks or other metal utensils, any coating may scratch off. The cured ProtectaClear® resin is not toxic.
For the outside of copper pans, ProtectaClear® will protect your beautiful copper pots and will stand up to heat as well, preventing tarnish and darkening. Your copper pans will stay bright and shiny.
ProtectaClear® will also protect your copper back splashes, copper bars, copper hoods, copper sinks and other copper in your kitchen, keeping it beautiful and easy to clean. Coated surfaces will clean up easily with mild soap and water.
How do I remove the metal inner seal of the can?
In order to prevent leaking during shipping, metal cans that have liquids in them must have an insert under the screw top. This insert needs to be removed and discarded. If your can has a plastic top, it may not have this insert.
To remove the insert, hold the can to prevent the contents from spilling. Use a screwdriver or an icepick and tap through the metal insert. The metal insert will pop out. The following video shows the method of removing the insert. Keep the screw top on the can to prevent spills.
Watch the video
here.
