1K paint is supplied ready to use and forms its finished coating without adding a separate hardener. Traditional 2K paint uses a paint and hardener to produce a chemically cured coating with increased durability and resistance.
However, not every product described as 2K operates in exactly the same way. Your Spray Paints 2K ADC is a non-isocyanate system with no internal hardener vial to activate, so always check the specific product information before use.
The “K” refers to the number of components involved in the paint system. A 1K—or one-pack—paint does not require a separately added hardener. It normally forms its coating through solvent evaporation and/or reaction with the surrounding air.
A conventional 2K—or two-pack—system uses a paint and a separate hardener or activator. When combined, the components react chemically to produce a harder and generally more resistant coating. Once activated, these products normally have a limited working life.
Our 2K ADC aerosol is different from a conventional activated isocyanate 2K aerosol. It is a non-isocyanate system and does not contain an internal hardener vial that needs to be released before spraying. Always follow the instructions supplied with the exact product you have purchased.
Choose 1K When…
Choose a 1K system when you want straightforward application for general decorative, restoration or maintenance work. It is often suitable where exceptional resistance to chemicals, fuel or severe wear is not required.
A 1K aerosol can normally be stored and reused when the nozzle is cleared correctly after use. However, QAD enamel, synthetic and cellulose paints have different properties, so the correct 1K paint must still be selected for the surface and existing coating.
Choose 2K When…
Choose an appropriate 2K system when increased hardness, durability, weather resistance or chemical resistance is required. This may include machinery, fabrication, automotive components and other demanding applications.
A traditional activated 2K aerosol contains a separate hardener and has a limited usable life after activation. Our non-isocyanate 2K ADC aerosol has no internal hardener vial and is used differently. Check the product description carefully to ensure that you have selected the correct 2K system for your application.
The colour code does not determine whether you need 1K or 2K paint. The decision should be based on the surface, existing coating, application environment and performance required.
Consider the following:
• What material are you painting—metal, plastic, wood, glass or a previously painted surface?
• Will the finished item be used indoors or outdoors?
• Will it be exposed to fuel, oils, cleaning chemicals, moisture or heavy wear?
• Do you require a straightforward decorative finish or a harder industrial coating?
• Do you have the correct working environment, ventilation and protective equipment for the selected product?
For general decorative and lighter-duty applications, an appropriate 1K paint may be sufficient. For demanding applications requiring increased resistance and durability, a suitable 2K system may be the better choice. If you are uncertain, contact our technical team before ordering.
Speak to our technical team before placing your order
No. Conventional activated 2K aerosols normally contain a separate hardener that is released before use. Your Spray Paints 2K ADC is a non-isocyanate system and does not have an internal hardener vial, so it is important to check which type of 2K product you have ordered.
This depends on the exact products, whether the existing coating has fully cured and their chemical compatibility. Applying a strong solvent-based coating over an incompatible or insufficiently cured finish may cause lifting, wrinkling or another reaction. Check the technical information and test a small area first.
No. Some 2K coloured paints are designed as direct-finish coatings and do not require a separate lacquer. Basecoat systems normally require a compatible clear lacquer, while other finishes may use lacquer for additional protection or a particular appearance. Follow the instructions for the selected paint system.
Always read the product label, instructions and Safety Data Sheet before use. Aerosol paints contain flammable materials and produce airborne mist and vapour, so suitable ventilation, protective clothing, gloves, eye protection and respiratory protection may be required. Keep aerosols away from heat, sparks and other ignition sources.
Conventional isocyanate-containing 2K paints require specialist controls. When sprayed, they can produce an invisible mist capable of causing occupational asthma. They should only be sprayed in an appropriate controlled environment using the respiratory and exposure controls specified by the Health and Safety Executive.
Non-isocyanate 2K ADC does not carry the same isocyanate risk, but it remains a solvent-containing paint product and must still be used in accordance with its instructions and Safety Data Sheet.
Use our quick help tool to identify the most appropriate paint system before you order.
Once the paint system is chosen, find your colour and select the required finish.
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Paint Type
Answer these simple questions and we will guide you to the right type
| Preparation | Clean, degrease and lightly key |
| Primer | Etch Primer for bare metal (optional if painted) |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 1K QAD Enamel (2K ADC also option) |
| Protection | Clear lacquer recommended for outdoor durability |
Tip: For best results, key lightly after primer cures.
ABS/PVC (most household plastics)
| Preparation | Degrease and lightly scuff the surface |
| Primer | Plastic Adhesion Primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC |
| Outdoors | Clear lacquer improves UV resistance and longevity |
Tip: Smooth plastics rely on primer for adhesion — skipping it often causes peeling.
PP/PE (Difficult Plastics)
| Preparation | Clean thoroughly; avoid aggressive sanding |
| Primer | Strong Adhesion Plastic Primer essential |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC |
| Testing | Always test adhesion before full application |
Tip: If paint scratches off easily without primer, the plastic is usually PP or PE.
| Preparation | Sand smooth and seal with wood sealer |
| Primer | High-build primer optional for MDF types |
| Topcoat | 1K Cellulose |
| Outdoors | Ultra Clear lacquer recommended for moisture protection |
Tip: Light key between coats gives a smoother, longer-lasting finish.
| Preparation | Clean, dry and remove loose material |
| Primer | Masonry or sealing primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K QAD Enamel |
| Coverage | Porous surfaces may require extra coats |
Tip: Masonry absorbs paint quickly — allow longer drying time between coats.
| Preparation | Degrease thoroughly; do not sand |
| Primer | Plastic primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic |
| Protection | Ultra Clear lacquer improves scratch resistance |
Tip: Also perform a testing piece before full application.
| Preparation | Clean, degrease and sand appropriately |
| Primer | Epoxy & 2K HB primer as required |
| Topcoat | Basecoat matched to colour |
| Protection | 2K Clearcoat |
Tip: Always check the recommendations for each substrate and do not use epoxy and etch primer together.
| Surface Type | Unusual, mixed or specialist material |
| Risk | Incorrect paint choice may cause adhesion failure |
| Recommendation | Technical advice required before purchase |
| Next Step | Contact our Technical Services team |
Tip: If your project involves chemicals, composites, heat, solvents or industrial use, specialist guidance ensures the correct system is used first time.
| Preparation | Clean, degrease and lightly key |
| Primer | Etch Primer for bare metal (optional if painted) |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 1K QAD Enamel (2K ADC also option) |
| Protection | Clear lacquer recommended for outdoor durability |
Tip: For best results, key lightly after primer cures.
ABS/PVC (most household plastics)
| Preparation | Degrease and lightly scuff the surface |
| Primer | Plastic Adhesion Primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC |
| Outdoors | Clear lacquer improves UV resistance and longevity |
Tip: Smooth plastics rely on primer for adhesion — skipping it often causes peeling.
PP/PE (Difficult Plastics)
| Preparation | Clean thoroughly; avoid aggressive sanding |
| Primer | Strong Adhesion Plastic Primer essential |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic or 2K ADC |
| Testing | Always test adhesion before full application |
Tip: If paint scratches off easily without primer, the plastic is usually PP or PE.
| Preparation | Sand smooth and seal with wood sealer |
| Primer | High-build primer optional for MDF types |
| Topcoat | 1K Cellulose |
| Outdoors | Ultra Clear lacquer recommended for moisture protection |
Tip: Light key between coats gives a smoother, longer-lasting finish.
| Preparation | Clean, dry and remove loose material |
| Primer | Masonry or sealing primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K QAD Enamel |
| Coverage | Porous surfaces may require extra coats |
Tip: Masonry absorbs paint quickly — allow longer drying time between coats.
| Preparation | Degrease thoroughly; do not sand |
| Primer | Plastic primer recommended |
| Topcoat | 1K Poly Synthetic |
| Protection | Ultra Clear lacquer improves scratch resistance |
Tip: Also perform a testing piece before full application.
| Preparation | Clean, degrease and sand appropriately |
| Primer | Epoxy & 2K HB primer as required |
| Topcoat | Basecoat matched to colour |
| Protection | 2K Clearcoat |
Tip: Always check the recommendations for each substrate and do not use epoxy and etch primer together.
| Surface Type | Unusual, mixed or specialist material |
| Risk | Incorrect paint choice may cause adhesion failure |
| Recommendation | Technical advice required before purchase |
| Next Step | Contact our Technical Services team |
Tip: If your project involves chemicals, composites, heat, solvents or industrial use, specialist guidance ensures the correct system is used first time.