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XTC High Temperature Paint for Headers, Exhaust, Stoves, Grills & Smokers

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XTC is a high temperature/heat resistant coating formulated specifically to protect metal surfaces operating at temperatures from 500° F to 1500° F. With proper preparation, XTC provides outstanding adhesion, film integrity, weathering, and thermal shock-resistance throughout this entire temperature range, and is guaranteed not to burn off! Available in many great colors and clear.

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*For 5 Gallon Pails, if timing is critical, please call us (219-263-0073) to verify real-time stock.

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XTC and XTC Primer Application Directions →

Details
Customer Reviews

Size

Standard Colors
Jet Black • Cast Iron Grey • Charcoal Metallic
Off-White • Flame Blue • Clear

Premium Colors
Aluminum • Stainless Steel • Pure White
Rocket Red • Pontiac Metallic Blue • XTC Primer

12oz Aerosol

$27

8oz

$24

$31

Pint

$40

$48

Quart

$74

$90

Gallon

$265

$308

5 Gallon Pail

$1,219

$1,490

What Is XTC? High Temperature Paint.

XTC is a silicone-based, heat-resistant coating designed to protect metal surfaces operating at continuous temperatures from 500°F to 1500°F — and it's guaranteed not to burn off. Ideal for automotive headers, exhaust manifolds, wood stoves, pellet stoves, BBQ grills, and smokers, XTC delivers outstanding adhesion, thermal shock resistance, and weathering durability across the entire temperature range. UV stable formula won't chalk or fade. Available in 12 colors — brush or spray.

XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating – 500°F to 1500°F Guaranteed

XTC is a high temperature and heat resistant coating formulated specifically to protect metal surfaces operating at temperatures from 500°F to 1500°F.

With proper preparation, XTC provides outstanding adhesion, film integrity, weathering, and thermal shock-resistance throughout this entire temperature range, and is guaranteed not to burn off!

XTC is ideal for exterior applications. UV stable — won't chalk or fade. Resists rust when used with XTC Primer.

Have Questions? Click Here for Expert Support

Video: XTC Overview

XTC High Temperature Paint Features

Temperature & Durability

Withstands continuous temperatures up to 1500°F (1200°F for Aerosols)
Outstanding heat & weathering resistance
Will not peel, flake, or chalk
Resistant to scratching & marring
Long lasting — guaranteed not to burn off

Performance Benefits

Reduces underhood and exhaust manifold surface temperatures
Improves exhaust gas velocity to increase horsepower
UV stable — won't chalk or fade
Dries to touch in 15 minutes
Provides rust protection when used with XTC Primer

Application

Can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed
Available in convenient aerosol cans
12 colors available
XTC Primer not required for adhesion — only for rust protection

⚠ Important: XTC and XTC Primer are not designed for direct flame contact, which can reach temperatures of 3000°F.

Video: The Guys from 2 Guys Garage show off XTC

XTC Available in Many Colors

XTC High Temperature Paint Color Options

Matte blacks, metallics, whites, reds, and blues — including aerosol. Want to see an exact color before ordering?

Request a Free Color Sample →

XTC High Temperature Paint Applications

XTC is formulated for any metal surface that operates at sustained high temperatures. Common applications include:

Automotive

Headers & exhaust manifolds
Mufflers & exhaust pipes
Heat shields
Brake calipers

Fireplace & Outdoor

Wood & pellet stoves
Cast iron stoves & stove pipe
BBQ grills & smokers
Fireplace surrounds

Also effective on: industrial equipment, engine components, and any metal surface exposed to temperatures up to 1500°F.

XTC High Temperature Header Paint on Automotive Exhaust Manifold

XTC High Temperature Paint Applied to Exhaust Headers

XTC Coverage Guide

Theoretical coverage at 2 mils is approximately 400 sq. ft. per gallon.

Container Size	Coverage (Single Coat)
Aerosol	10-15 sq.ft.
8oz	20-25 sq.ft.
Pint (16oz)	40-50 sq.ft.
Quart (32oz)	80-100 sq.ft.
Gallon (128oz)	360-400 sq.ft.
5 Gallon (640oz)	1,800-2,000 sq.ft.

XTC Coverage – Common Application Examples

Application	Size Needed	Coats
3 Sets of Automotive Manifolds	8oz	2
Set of Shorty Headers	8oz	2
Set of Full-Size Headers	Pint	2
Complete Automotive Exhaust System	Pint	2

Pro-Tip: Material losses during mixing and application (especially when spraying) should be taken into consideration. On rough or porous surfaces, expect roughly 20% less coverage.

Have Questions? Click Here for Expert Support

XTC Application & Technical Data Sheet

Technical Docs

XTC Directions for Use

Get Expert Help

XTC Supplemental FAQ KBS Support Desk KBS Support Forum

XTC Technical Data Sheet

Characteristics

Jet Black, Cast Iron Grey, Charcoal Metallic, Pure White, Rocket Red, Off-White, Pontiac Metallic Blue, Flame Blue, Clear, Aluminum, Stainless Steel, XTC Primer

Generic Type

Silicone

Color

Black, Grey, Blue, White, Ivory, Red, Silver, and Clear

Temperature Resistance
Continuous

XTC Primer 1200°F
XTC 1500°F

Percent (%) Solids by volume

20-35 (varies by color)

Viscosity

300-450 cps (varies by color)

Dry film thickness per coat

1.0 - 2.0 mils

Wet film thickness per coat

5 - 8 mils

Drying time @ 50% RH
To Touch
To Handle
To Re-coat
To Ship

50°F (10°C) 70°F (21°C)
50 Minutes 25 minutes
1 Hour 30 minutes
10 hours 7 hours
42 hours 20 hours

Full cure @ 350°F
(Heat/Temperature Cure)

30 minutes

Weight per gallon

8.8 - 12.1 lb. (varies by color)

XTC High Temperature Paint – Common Questions & Tips

Do I need to sandblast before applying XTC?

While a sandblasted surface is ideal for cleaning and providing the best anchor pattern for adhesion, wire brushing and/or abrasive sanding with 60–80 grit sandpaper will also work well.

How many coats of XTC do I need?

This depends on the coarseness of the surface profile — the coarser the profile, the more thin coats are needed. We recommend a minimum of two coats of XTC, or one coat of XTC Primer followed by one coat of XTC in your color of choice. Apply enough thin coats to cover the surface adequately. Do not over-apply.

Do I need to heat the surface before applying XTC?

No. The surface should be at room temperature — between 50°F and 82°F — during application. Do not apply XTC to a hot surface.

Do I need to heat cure XTC after application?

Yes. While XTC will dry to the touch within 30–60 minutes, it will not reach full cure until the coated surface reaches approximately 350°F for 30 minutes. This heat cure is achieved naturally the first time the part is put into service.

Do I need to heat cure between coats?

No. Heat curing between coats is not necessary. Heat curing will not hinder the adhesion of subsequent coats of XTC.

Can I apply another coat of XTC after the piece has already been heat cured?

Yes. Heat curing does not hinder subsequent coats of XTC. You can apply additional coats at any time.

Is XTC Primer required for adhesion?

No. XTC Primer is not required for adhesion — XTC will adhere incredibly well to a properly prepped surface on its own. XTC Primer should be used when rust protection or additional hide (color coverage) is desired.

Does XTC Primer need to be topcoated with XTC, or can it be left as the finish coat?

XTC Primer can absolutely be left as the finish coat — it does not need to be coated over with XTC. Many customers use XTC Primer alone for its matte grey appearance and rust protection.

Have Questions? Click Here for Expert Support

Shop XTC - Xtreme Temperature Coating

Rating Snapshot

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172

Average Customer Ratings

4.8

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OWNER

VERY GOOD COVERAGE

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Reviewed by: Kevin Goeckerman from Toledo on 1/22/2026

Great product

Reasonable pricing, good selection of colors

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Reviewed by: Shyanne Muscroft from Monroe, WA on 8/24/2025

Perfect paint

Followed instructions to the letter and the results are fantastic. 2 coats primer, 3 coats paint with 8 hrs in between and the color came out perfect. With 45 hrs of running the paint has not faded at all and handles puppy claws without scratching. Considering painting the whole bike in this color

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Reviewed by: Dallas from East Bend, NC on 5/20/2025

Great product

Great product. The only coatings I use on my offset smokers.

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Reviewed by: Johnathan Fincher from Biloxi MS on 3/27/2025

Awesome coverage

I am very happy with the coverage and toughness of the spray. was really impressed with how smooth the product sprayed out of the can.

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Reviewed by: War Hammer Fabrication from Sp. Fk, UT on 1/28/2025

Arrgh - white stove top

Having received an Email from KBS support, the white enamel coating on the stove cannot be reproduced. Spraying your white paint I was told stains would discolor it. So for weeks I have been attentive to cleaning spill-over stains and the stovetop looks white & great.

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Reviewed by: Saulius Skeivys from Bayside on 11/18/2024

Xtreme Aluminum

I have been using KBS produces for some years now, and I have always been impressed. This Xtreme Temperature Aluminum paint is outstanding. Went on great and dried quickly, but what impressed me was the match to vapor blasted aluminum. The attached picture shows a cast iron cylinder painted with Xtreme Temperature Aluminum next to vapor blasted aluminum engine cases and cylinder valve cover. I could not of asked for a better results. Thanks JOE

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Reviewed by: Joe Wierzbicki from Lowell Michigan on 11/17/2024

V.W. headers

Sanded rust and just sprayed over. I like the product.

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Reviewed by: Randy Graf from Blossom on 8/5/2024

Great Header Paint

This is the best header paint i have every used.

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Reviewed by: Steve from El Dorado on 7/29/2024

Antique cast iron wood burning stove

We started by sanding with a hand held power sander. Then we used KBS Clean and XTC Xtreme temperature clear gloss. The process was easy and took little time. We did try the Rust Blast also on a limited are and ultimately decided we didn’t like the look , but it was effective. The only small issue we had is that we needed to sand lightly again after the Clean product. We are very pleased with the results.

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Reviewed by: Lynda from Forks, WA on 7/20/2024

Amazing Results! Barrell Smoker Project

This smoker has been a long idea and dream of mine, with every detail thought of, after considering my options of coatings, I decided on using KBS, mainly due to a trusted friend who has used thier products, and man was right! I used every product he recommended and the results are amazing, well worth the price, as it easy to use, and has proven to withstand consistent high heat. I do believe the coverage per sprayable ounce KBS states is pretty accurate, but if you wanted stretch it out you probably could, but I probably wouldn’t recommend. I used the Zinc Coating, base color coat and clear coat. FANTASTIC PRODUCT

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Reviewed by: Willie Holguin from San Antonio, TX on 7/13/2024

Awesome Product!

We had a tank that required a high heat paint. I bought the XTC high heat paint from KBS Coatings. After three days of prep work, it was time for painting. Instructions are crucial for a good job! Spraying wasn't an option, so foam roller covers were perfect! I highly recommend the XTC high heat paint from KBS Coatings!

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Reviewed by: Pamela from Greenville, NC on 6/27/2024

Motorcycle pipes

I followed the directions and applied, it's been over a month now and they still look brand new! Great product, paint flows beautifully!

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Reviewed by: Dave Gregory from Beach Lake, PA on 6/16/2024

Excellent

Love this product Stove grates look awesome. From a light grey to black so much easier to keep clean, looks great with my cast iron.

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Reviewed by: Ann from Minneapolis,MN on 5/26/2024

Rocket Red Paint

Rocket paint red nice color, I just used that Pontiac metallic blue no that good, blue is to light

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Reviewed by: Jaime Cubriel from Pearsall,Tx on 5/26/2024

High Temp Paint

I needed a high temp paint for the metal screen on our gas fireplace, .I think this will work great!

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Reviewed by: Sissy from Mo. on 4/7/2024

Fantastic product

Here at Pig Iron Patina our customers demand the best product money can buy. So far, kbs has been the clear winner.

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Reviewed by: Pig Iron Patina from Montgomery on 4/4/2024

Best header paint out there

Extremely tough and doesnt get chalky or discolor. Was concerned with the white discoloring or getting chalky, but not even a concern. Only stuff ill use on my headers.

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Reviewed by: Jim P. from Mohnton, Pa on 4/4/2024

Great Product and Results

Take your time, follow the directions, borrow the double oven / grille. Tough and good looking results.

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Reviewed by: Zak from Columbia,TN on 3/6/2024

Primer and pure white

This product is outstanding, and wow what a finish, if your looking to make your exhaust stand out forget those other brands, this stuff goes on smooth and the primer leaves a great foundation to add the pure white! Could not be happier, I have used other products in the past but never again, XTC will be my go too!

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Reviewed by: William Collard from Chesapeake on 1/19/2024

Rust prevention

Covers great easy to use I like the rattle can method versus brushing.

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Reviewed by: John Breithaupt from Freehold NY on 12/8/2023

Icing on the cake

We build smokers here in the birthplace of the texas flag. KBS extreme temperature coating sets our hard work over the top!! I've gone through about 15 gallons so far, what an amazing product! Thank you kbs!

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Reviewed by: Pig iron patina from Montgomery tx on 11/22/2023

Truck Exhaust Coating

Used this as a final coat after using the XTC Silicone Zinc Primer on my new exhaust pipes and muffler for my truck. It is easy to apply and provided an even coating with no bubbling or runs. Looks great! Recommend for any high temperature coating requirements.

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Reviewed by: Billy Bruner from Monticello, KY on 10/27/2023

Fireplace Refresh

I gave my fireplace a modern white makeover using KBS high temperature paint, encompassing even the firebox. While the application was easy, it dried to a beautiful matte finish. Note: there's a strong odor when wet, but it vanishes within a day after drying. I haven't used the fireplace since painting, but I trust its high-temperature claim. The result is visually appealing, making it both a decorative and practical choice for potential emergencies. I highly recommend this paint. (Note: This is based on personal experience and is not professional advice.)

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Reviewed by: Armando from Milford, MA on 10/20/2023

Very satisfied

I used XTC Zinc Primer (Matte Grey), Stainless Steel (Matte Metallic)and Clear (Gloss) on my new DynoMax exhaust and found all three products sprayed well, covered evenly and I had no runs. I used mainly for rust protection but the paint job looks great.

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Reviewed by: Sev from Fort Worth on 6/30/2023

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XTC High Temperature Paint for Headers, Exhaust, Stoves, Grills & Smokers

Select Options and Quantity

What Is XTC? High Temperature Paint.

XTC Xtreme Temperature Coating – 500°F to 1500°F Guaranteed

Video: XTC Overview

XTC High Temperature Paint Features

Temperature & Durability

Performance Benefits

Application

Video: The Guys from 2 Guys Garage show off XTC

XTC High Temperature Paint Applications

Automotive

Fireplace & Outdoor

XTC Coverage Guide

XTC Application & Technical Data Sheet

Technical Docs

Get Expert Help

XTC Technical Data Sheet

XTC High Temperature Paint – Common Questions & Tips

Rating Snapshot

Average Customer Ratings

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