Frequently Asked Questions about Everbrite, ProtectaClear, CrobialCoat or Metal Restoration
General Questions
What are Everbrite Coating, ProtectaClear and CrobialCoat coatings?
Everbrite Coatings are easy-to-use, clear protective coatings designed to restore, seal, and protect metals and other surfaces from rust, tarnish, UV rays, and corrosion. They require no mixing, will not yellow or peel, and can be maintained indefinitely. Everbrite Coating: Best for architectural, painted, or rusted metals, outdoor surfaces, wood, and hard plastics. It restores color and luster to dull, faded materials while providing strong weather and UV protection. ProtectaClear: A thinner, harder coating built for high-use or high-touch surfaces (like sinks, jewelry, wheels, and countertops) and polished metals like stainless steel, copper, and brass. CrobialCoat: The ProtectaClear formula combined with built-in antimicrobial technology. It keeps high-touch surfaces like light switches, appliances, and bath fixtures 99% cleaner by stopping bacteria and microbe buildup continuous 24/7. Key Shared Benefits -Have indefinite shelf life in a closed container, so there is no waste. -One part coatings, so there is no mixing. -No need to thin to spray or apply. -Solvent based coatings for durable, long-lasting protection. -Will remain flexible so they will not chip, crack or peel. -Will not discolor or yellow with exposure or heat. -Self annealing, the coatings will blend to itself and can be maintained indefinitely. -Non-conductive coatings will prevent corrosion caused by dissimilar metals. -Easily removable, repairable, and can be maintained indefinitely. -Thin, tough, and durable coatings that are practically invisible when applied. -Available in Clear and Satin finishes. 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.
What problems do Everbrite Coatings solve?
Common Surface Problems Solved - Sun & Weathering: Prevents paint chalking, fading, and damage from acid rain or moisture. - Corrosion & Rust: Shields metals against salt air, oxidation, and rust. - Tarnishing: Stops copper, brass, bronze, silver, and plated metals from tarnishing or discoloring. - Maintenance & Graffiti: Makes surfaces easier to clean by preventing dirt and dust from embedding into paint; allows graffiti to be wiped away without destroying underlying finishes. Exposure to the elements, salt air, acid rain, and frequent handling can leave metals tarnished, painted surfaces faded, and fixtures vulnerable to corrosion and microbe buildup. The Everbrite Coatings lineup addresses these challenges by restoring, sealing and protecting substrates for long-lasting performance. - Standard Everbrite Coating restores color to dull, oxidized architectural and painted metals while guarding against UV damage, acid rain, tarnish and weather-induced fading. - For stainless steel, polished, or heavily handled metals, ProtectaClear provides a thin, durable barrier that seals out salts, chlorine, and oxidation to maintain a pristine polished finish on jewelry, railings, stainless steel, and countertops. - Building on ProtectaClear’s heavy-duty durability, CrobialCoat adds continuous antimicrobial protection, preventing bacterial growth and making it the ideal choice for high-touch indoor surfaces—such as light switches, faucets, and appliances—that require both physical protection and superior hygienic cleanliness.
What is the difference between Everbrite, ProtectaClear and CrobialCoat?
All three coatings are clear, one-part, air-dry protective coatings designed to restore metals and prevent oxidation, rust, tarnish, and UV damage. They share key traits like high heat resistance (up to 550°F), self-leveling properties, and an indefinite shelf life in a closed container. However, each product is specialized for different types of surfaces and use cases: 1. Everbrite Coating Best For: Exterior, painted, anodized, powder-coated, or rusted architectural metals, as well as wood and hard plastics. Primary Function: Formulated to restore original color and luster to dull or faded metals while offering strong weather resistance and UV protection against sun-induced fading and tarnish on architectural metals. Common Uses: Garage doors, metal roofs, copper roofs, patio furniture, siding, and outdoor sculptures. 2. ProtectaClear Best For: Stainless steel, highly polished, or high-touch / heavy-wear metals. Primary Function: A thinner, harder clear coat designed to seal out tarnish, salts, chlorine, and oxidation on bare or polished metal surfaces without changing their look. Common Uses: Stainless steel, copper/brass sinks, countertops, jewelry, metal handrails, and wheels. 3. CrobialCoat Best For: High-touch indoor surfaces requiring hygienic, continuous antimicrobial protection. Primary Function: Combines the durable, hard-coating formula of ProtectaClear with built-in antimicrobial technology that keeps high-touch surfaces 99% cleaner 24/7 by inhibiting bacterial and microbial growth. Common Uses: Sinks, door handles, light switches, faucets, appliances, and bath fixtures.
What is the difference between the clear and satin finishes?
Everbrite Coatings are available in Clear and Satin finishes. The main distinction comes down to how much "sheen" you want the finished project to have. Clear Coatings (Gloss) Appearance: The Clear formula provides a glossy finish, but because it is extremely thin, it does not look thick or plastic-like. On bare or unpainted metal: It is virtually invisible and takes on the natural look of the metal underneath. If you polish a piece of metal to a mirror shine, the clear coat will preserve that exact shine. On painted or rusted metal: It deepens the color and adds a sheen, making the surface look exactly like it does when it is wet. Satin Coatings (Muted Sheen) Appearance: The Satin formula is specifically designed to significantly reduce the sheen and shine of a surface, giving it a flatter, more muted look. Best Uses: It is highly popular for rusted metal or Corten steel projects (like rat rods, rustic art, or siding) where customers want to seal the rust but prefer a dry, non-reflective look rather than a glossy one. Things to Watch Out For: On some surfaces, like painted metal or anodized aluminum, the flatting agents in the Satin finish can make the metal look cloudy or oxidized. We highly recommend testing the Satin finish in a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure you like the final look. Important Differences in Application Mixing: The Satin formula contains special flatting agents that settle at the bottom of the can. It must be mixed thoroughly before every single use. If it is not mixed properly, it can leave noticeable streaks on the project. Clear coatings do not require this. Availability: Satin finishes are not available in aerosol cans, whereas the Clear finishes are. Pro-Tip: If you are working with bare, unpainted metal, it is often easier to physically scuff or polish the metal to your desired sheen (like a brushed look) and then apply the Clear coating over it, rather than trying to use Satin to knock down the shine. Alternatively, you can always apply your base coats in Clear and then apply a single final topcoat of Satin just to reduce the shine.
Where can I buy Everbrite Coatings line of products?
We manufacture Everbrite, ProtectaClear, and CrobialCoat and sell directly to you. To keep costs down and provide expert support for our specialized products, we don't sell in retail stores. Buying direct is easy and secure: Online: Visit our encrypted online store by clicking the Shop Now button at the top of any page. By Phone: Call us at 916-852-0200 (Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PT). Real people answer our phones, and we’re always happy to help you pick the right tools for the job!
Can Everbrite and ProtectaClear be purchased outside of the U.S.A?
Yes, we have our international distributors listed on our Distributor Page. If we do not have a distributor in your area, we ship Everbrite Coatings world-wide by UPS Worldwide or Fed-Ex. If you like, we can use your shipping account. Aerosol cans cannot be shipped overseas. Please be aware that shippers charge a brokerage fee on top of the shipping charges and will charge you tax for your area.
What is the shelf life for Everbrite Coatings?
Everbrite Coatings require no mixing and have an indefinite shelf life in a closed container. If you take a break, simply pour any unused, uncontaminated coating back into the can, clean the container threads, and seal it tight to use another day. (Note: Never return contaminated coating to the original can).
What do Everbrite Coatings cost?
Refinishing with Everbrite Coatings is economical due to the high coverage rate and longevity of the coatings. The cost for the material is between 30 and 90 cents per square foot, depending on volume. Larger sizes offer a lower cost per ounce. Labor is also less expensive than painting because there is no masking necessary.
How can I tell if a surface can be restored?
How to Test If Your Surface Can Be Restored: For Painted, Colored, or Anodized Metals: Clean a small test area and observe it while it is clean and wet. - If it looks good wet: That is how it will look after applying Everbrite Coating. - If it still looks dull or damaged wet: The surface either needs more cleaning or is damaged beyond repair. - For Unpainted Metals (Copper, Brass, Bronze): Clean or polish a small spot. If the shine returns, our coatings will lock in that look and prevent future tarnish.
Are there problems that Everbrite or ProtectaClear cannot help?
Everbrite Coatings cannot restore surfaces that are already severely damaged or degraded. It is best protect metals before extreme damage occurs. - Severe Pitting & Heavy Rust: Extreme oxidation or deep rust pitting from salt air cannot be reversed. - Missing or Peeling Paint: If paint is completely gone or peeling, the paint must be repaired or repainted before applying Everbrite. - Etched Acid Rain Damage: While Everbrite prevents acid rain damage on intact surfaces, it cannot repair metal or stone once acid rain has already etched and stained it.
Are there surfaces that should not have a coating applied to them?
Do NOT apply Everbrite Coating or ProtectaClear to soft rubber or soft vinyl (like umbrellas or soft awnings) as the solvent can harm them. Solvents will release the plasticizers 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 Coating. Always test first in a small, inconspicuous area.
Do you have a contractor in my area who can apply the coating for me?
Everbrite Coatings are easy to apply and are DIY friendly. We have complete instructions that are easy to follow. If your job is large and you want a contractor to do the work for you, please contact us and we can refer you to a certified contractor.
Application Questions
How are Everbrite Coatings applied?
Everbrite Coating, CrobialCoat or ProtectaClear can be applied to completely clean and dry surfaces 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. Complete instructions come with every order and are available on our website. Everbrite Coatings are one-part coatings, so there is nothing to mix. They are self-leveling, will blend to themselves, and are very easy to work with.
How is the surface cleaned?
Surfaces like metal siding, 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. 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 a clean solvent like xylene, acetone, 91+% isopropyl alcohol, or denatured alcohol to ensure all contaminants are removed. Solvents can be found at hardware or paint stores. We can ship 99% isopropyl alcohol to you with your order. These solvents 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 and 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 can create problems such as black streaks.
Why and how to solvent wipe?
Everbrite Coating, ProtectaClear, and CrobialCoat have excellent adhesion on clean and dry surfaces. Wiping unpainted or anodized metal surfaces with a clean solvent will ensure a completely clean and dry surface. Solvent wiping is NOT necessary and NOT recommended on painted surfaces. You can use xylene, xylene substitutes, denatured alcohol, 91+% isopropyl alcohol or acetone for the solvent wipe. We can ship 99% isopropyl alcohol to you with your order. The solvent wipe step is done immediately before applying the coating.
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.
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.)
At what temperature can Everbrite Coatings be applied?
Our coatings can be applied in temperatures from approximately 40°F up to 100°F. Since the metal needs to be cleaned and dry, the temperature should not be below freezing. The temperature of the metal is more important than the air temperature. 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. Conversely, 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/heat gun 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. If working on exterior 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.
What are the proper steps for preparing a surface before applying the coating?
Proper Surface Preparation is the most critical step before applying Everbrite coatings. Proper prep ensures long-lasting adhesion and a clear finish, while skipping steps can cause coating failure. Step-by-Step Preparation Guide 1. Clean the Surface - Remove all dirt, tarnish, oxidation, waxes, and oils: Tarnish & Oxidation: Polish/buff bare metals (copper, brass, silver), sand flaking rust or heavy tarnish, or wash painted metals with mild soap (like Dawn) or EZ-Prep. 2. Neutralize Acids (Mandatory if Acid Was Used) - If you used acid-based cleaners, patinas, rust accelerators, or acid polishes (like vinegar or Copper Cleaning Gel), you must neutralize the surface. Skipping this will cause immediate blackening or rusting under the coating. Solution: Mix 1 cup of baking soda per gallon of water (or use EZ-Prep Neutralizer diluted 1:3 with water). Application: Wash or dip the item thoroughly with the neutralizing solution. 3. Rinse Thoroughly - Rinse completely with clean water until it sheets off without beading or bubbling. Use distilled water for copper and sensitive metals to prevent tap water mineral spots. 4. Dry Completely - Ensure the substrate is 100% dry. Rusted metals and porous surfaces hold trapped moisture. Use a heat gun or hairdryer if necessary. Let the surface cool below 110°F (43°C) before coating. 5. Final Solvent Wipe for Unpainted metals. (Mandatory) Wipe the surface immediately before coating using a clean, lint-free cloth saturated with clean solvent. Wear chemical-resistant/nitrile gloves to avoid transferring hand oils or fingerprints. Note: Newly painted surfaces must be fully cured before coating to prevent bubbling or lifting.
What is the recommended dry and cure time between coats and before using the item?
Dry and Cure Times for Everbrite Coatings Everbrite Coatings are solvent based and dry quickly. Thicker layers of coating will take longer to dry and cooler temperatures will cause the coating to dry more slowly. Ensure the previous coat is completely dry to the touch before applying the next coat to avoid surface irregularities like "orange peel." Do not try to fix drying coating; let it dry fully before reapplying. Once the coating is dry, it is still soft and delicate at this stage. Curing is the complete process where the resins fully harden and bond to the surface to achieve their maximum durability and weather protection. This process takes 4 to 5 days under normal conditions with good ventilation. This process can be sped up with exposure to warm air flow, oven baking at a low temperature or a paint booth after the coating is fully dry.
How can I remove Everbrite Coating or ProtectaClear?
Chemical Removal (Solvents) - Unpainted Metal & Glass: Use solvents like xylene or acetone to dissolve and remove the coating. - Painted Surfaces: Use extreme care when removing coating from painted metal, as solvents can dissolve or damage the paint underneath. - If you use lacquer thinner to strip the coating from unpainted metal, perform a final wipe with xylene or denatured alcohol afterward to remove remaining solvent oils before recoating. Lacquer thinner or acetone are not recommended for painted surfaces. - Always Test First: Test your solvent on a small, hidden spot to ensure it won't harm the underlying material. Mechanical Removal (Sanding for Unpainted metal like copper) - Copper Roofs, Gutters & Railings: Sanding is often easier and more effective than using chemicals on unpainted surfaces. - Sanding Technique: Start with 400–800 grit sandpaper to strip away the old coating, then finish with finer grits (1800–2000) for a smooth surface. - Prep Before Recoating: Always do a final solvent wipe (xylene or denatured alcohol) after sanding before applying a fresh coat.
Storage Questions
What is the Everbrite Restoration System?
Everbrite Protective Coating is a unique, crystal-clear coating used to refinish and restore your faded doors and metal buildings. In addition to restoring a “like-new" appearance, Everbrite will protect your valuable property from sun fading, salt air oxidation, moisture damage, tarnish, acid rain, and other damaging elements. Everbrite has U.V. absorbers and Anti-Oxidants to protect painted metal from fading, chalking, and corrosion. It is a homogeneous, one-part coating, so there is nothing to mix. It has an indefinite shelf life in a closed container, so there is no waste. Everbrite is a thin and flexible coating, so it will not chip, crack, or peel when the metal flexes or the doors roll up.
Is Everbrite the same as automotive coating?
Absolutely not. Automotive Coatings are formulated to be applied to short pieces of steel not aluminum doors that roll up on themselves. Automotive Coatings are not flexible. When a door is rolled up, the top of the door is compressed into a circle as little as 5 inches. Everbrite will remain flexible and will flex and bend with the door. Automobile coatings are two-part coatings and are not self-annealing so re-application in 5 to 10 years is very difficult. Everbrite will blend to itself so it can be maintained indefinitely.
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 Coating 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. Exterior metal that has been repainted begins to age almost immediately and will rarely rival the original baked-on finish in sheen or quality. Just repainting metal cannot protect against salt air corrosion or acid rain damage, and may crack, peel, blister, chip, and ruin the look of your property. Unless it is absolutely necessary to paint, it is much better to refinish the baked-on finish. Unlike paint, Everbrite dries very quickly, allowing your tenants access to their units in just minutes, and will not interrupt day-to-day operations of your business.
Does applying Everbrite require special tools or expertise?
NO. Everbrite can be applied by everyday people with common tools. We have complete illustrated directions at: Complete Illustrated Directions We also have "How-To" Videos to show you exactly how to restore your metal doors and buildings on our Video Page The secret to a successful Everbrite application is making sure the surface is completely cleaned—free of oxidation, dirt, grease, silicone, wax and moisture. First, chalky oxidation can be wiped off with plain water and a microfiber towel. Then, a final wash with EZ-Prep Concentrated Cleaner and water followed by a thorough rinse with plain water. Application of the Everbrite Coating can be done with most commercially available compressed air or airless sprayer equipped with a fine finish tip. For smaller areas Everbrite can be applied with a lint-free white cloth, wax applicator, or a high-density foam roller. For touch-ups and corners, aerosol cans are available.
Can't I just clean the doors?
Sure, you can just clean the doors but cleaning will not restore the color and luster if the topcoat is gone. We have a page with the best way to clean your doors. New doors and buildings can be maintained by simply cleaning with EZ-Prep Concentrated Cleaner and water. Once the doors are faded, just cleaning the metal will not bring back the shine and color. If you clean doors or metal buildings and don't seal or protect the surface, it will soon fade or chalk again. Once the doors are sealed with Everbrite, not only will they look new again but will be much easier to keep clean and will be protected from corrosion and oxidation.
Can I use a pressure washer to clean my doors?
This is not a good idea. Most seals on storage doors will not keep water out if a stream is sprayed into the "C" channel. Customers normally have their stuff in cardboard boxes stacked within inches of the door, and having customers approach you as to why their stuff has water damage is not a good feeling! Care must be taken not to spray water in the edges or in the opening above the door, and with our method, tens of thousands of units have been washed with no water damage.
Do I have to mask off door hardware and locks?
No, Everbrite will not damage or compromise metal hardware or locks. In fact, Everbrite will protect the locks and hardware from rust and corrosion as well.
I have lighter blotches on my doors? What causes this? How can it be fixed?
The original paint on your metal buildings and doors is baked on in the factory. Many times when your doors are put up, touch-up paint that matches the color of your doors is used by the contractor to cover any scratches. At the time it is touched up, it matches very well, but non-baked on paint will oxidize faster and blotches can appear where the touch-up paint fades faster than the original baked-on paint. Refinishing with Everbrite will bring back the faded color, and your doors will match once more.
Can I hire someone to apply Everbrite to my doors?
Yes. We do have a nationwide network of certified contractors with Everbrite application experience. Please reach out and we will be happy to get you a contracting bid for your property.
Is Everbrite just for doors?
No. Any metal surface that is subject to oxidation, corrosion, fading or discoloration is a candidate for Everbrite Coating. This includes metal buildings, roofs, gutters, metal trim, gate boxes, gates, bollards, signs, and much more.
Customer Reviews
"I was just thrilled with the results. I sell my jewelry with confidence knowing that it will stay beautiful over time"
-Susan M Collet
"Well we have had days and days of rain. Our birdhouse roof is still a beautiful shiny copper. Love the Everbrite."
-Kathy E.
"I love the way the siding on my garage turned out after using Everbrite products!"
-Albert Bissonette
"Your product is amazing. I will be pursuing more projects with this wonderful product!"
-Jeff Wilder