Rust-Oleum

About Rust-Oleum: Over a Century of Surface Protection

Rust-Oleum has one of the most remarkable origin stories in American manufacturing. Founded in 1921 by sea captain Robert Fergusson, the company was born after Fergusson observed that fish oil prevented rust on his ship's metal deck — an accidental discovery that inspired the development of one of the world's first rust-preventive paints. More than 100 years later, that same spirit of practical innovation still defines everything the brand produces.

Rust-Oleum remained a family-owned company until 1994, when it was acquired by RPM International Inc. By 2015, the company had reached one billion dollars in annual revenue, a testament to the enduring trust that both professionals and DIY enthusiasts place in its products. Headquartered in Vernon Hills, Illinois, Rust-Oleum operates globally and is recognized as a benchmark name in protective coatings.

What Makes Rust-Oleum Stand Out

For nearly a century, Rust-Oleum has been a leading manufacturer of innovative coatings, with a wide range of products that include paints, primers, automotive and concrete coatings, and wood care products for both decorative and industrial markets. The brand holds the number-one market share position in the U.S. and Canada for small-project paints, and its automotive lineup is equally well-regarded among vehicle owners and detailers.

Rust-Oleum's categories span small project paints, cleaners, primers, automotive applications, industrial solutions, high-performance coatings, wood care, and more — making it one of the most versatile coatings manufacturers in the world. With an output of over 100 million items per year, Rust-Oleum is also the largest producer of paint aerosols in the world.

Rust-Oleum for Automotive Applications

Rust-Oleum's automotive product line is built on the same chemistry and durability that made the brand famous. Whether you're restoring a classic vehicle, protecting a work truck, or prepping a body panel for a fresh coat, Rust-Oleum offers targeted solutions for every stage of the job.

For anyone tackling surface imperfections, Rust-Oleum automotive compounds are engineered to cut through oxidation, scratches, and blemishes to restore a like-new finish. These products are a go-to for both weekend detailers and professional shops looking for reliable results without the guesswork.

When it comes to truck owners who demand heavy-duty protection, Rust-Oleum bed coating delivers a tough, textured barrier that shields truck beds from impacts, abrasion, and the elements. It's one of the brand's most popular automotive offerings, trusted by truck owners who put their vehicles to work every day.

Every great paint job starts with the right foundation, and Rust-Oleum paint primer ensures maximum adhesion, corrosion resistance, and a uniform surface for topcoats. Rust-Oleum offers traditional, specialty, and spray primers to prep surfaces for paint, giving users the flexibility to choose the right product for any project.

Trusted Across Industries

Over the decades, Rust-Oleum has expanded its product line to include a diverse range of coatings designed to enhance and protect various surfaces, including industrial floor coatings, spray paints, primers, and automotive finishes — serving professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, from simple touch-ups to complex industrial applications. That breadth of expertise is what makes Rust-Oleum a brand worth trusting, regardless of the project at hand.