Author: Clifford Carlson

Whether you are duck hunting from a layout boat hidden in the reeds or jigging from your aluminum jon boat, we can help you keep it looking good. We specialize in marine painting and are familiar with the specific requirements of the marine industry.

Boat Painting and waxing can produce chemical fumes, so read the warning labels on all supplies used, especially when stripping or sanding. Optimal conditions for painting are when temperatures are between 50 and 80 degrees and humidity is below 65 percent.

Hull painting is a common boat maintenance task, as most boats need some fresh coats of paint after a few years in the water. Over time, sunlight, bird droppings, sand, and other debris can leave your boat’s hull looking dull or worn. This is especially true if you have chosen a dark color that fades quickly in the sun. A new coat of hull paint protects the metal from corrosion and prevents marine growth that can damage the boat’s bottom.

A new hull coating also adds protection to the fiberglass and keel. This will help prolong the life of your boat. It is important to prepare the hull for painting by thoroughly cleaning and sanding the surface.

Large areas can be painted with a roller, although it is best to have two people working together. One person rolls out the paint while the other uses a brush to lightly stroke over the roller pattern. This helps to create a smooth and even finish. It is also important to apply multiple thin, consistent coats rather than a few thick ones.

Deck painting is usually much more straightforward than hull painting, although it is still a good idea to meticulously tape off hardware and cover upholstery and electronics. The best deck paint is typically an antifouling paint that prevents marine growth and keeps the bottom of the boat clean and clear. There are many different versions of antifouling paints to choose from, so be sure to read the label and follow all the instructions for applying and curing the paint.

The bottom of a boat is usually covered in black antifouling paint that prevents the growth of barnacles and other marine life. It is important to take the time to carefully remove all the old bottom paint and then thoroughly clean and sand the area to be repainted. After the proper preparation and application of the new bottom paint, it is best to wait a few weeks before putting the boat back in the water to give the new paint some time to cure properly.

Sides

Marine painting companies often perform this type of work as well. The sides of a boat are always visible, so it is important to make sure that they look their best. Marine paint can help your boat withstand the elements and last longer. It is also important to choose the right type of paint for your boat’s side. For example, if your boat is a fiberglass vessel, you will need to use fiberglass boat paint.

To paint the sides of your boat, you need to start by sanding them down. This will create a smooth surface for the new paint. Then you will need to apply two coats of paint. You should let the first coat dry completely before you apply the second coat. You should also make sure that you are using a good-quality primer. This will ensure that the paint will stick to the surface of your boat.

Before you begin painting, be sure to remove any hardware from the sides of your boat that cannot be removed. This will give you a much better finish. You should also tape off the waterline of your boat. This will prevent you from accidentally painting over the antifouling line or bottom of your boat.

In addition, you should check the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying the first coat of paint. Some paints require a specific thinner and have other special instructions. You should follow all of these directions carefully.

It is also a good idea to clean the inside of your boat before you start to paint. This will make it easier to clean and prevent your paint job from looking sloppy.

You should also clean your boat with premium cleaning products and dry it with The Absorber to ensure that your paint job lasts as long as possible.

Marine paint is an essential part of any boat. Marine painting companies are trained to know what paint is best for your boat and how to properly apply it. A professional marine painting company will take care of all your needs so that you can enjoy your boat for years to come.

Bottom

While death and taxes are known as the two certainties of life, a third is the need for boat bottom paint. The bottom of your boat needs to be painted with antifouling paint to prevent marine growth like barnacles and zebra mussels from clinging to the hull. These organisms not only slow you down, but they can also cause blistering to the hull surface and cost you money in bottom cleaning, fuel bills, and lost performance.

Antifouling bottom paint contains a mixture of biocide ingredients that prevent both hard and soft marine growth. These include a biocide that deters hard growth like barnacles and mussels, as well as an algaecide to stop soft growth such as slime and weeds. It is important to choose the right type of bottom paint for your area and water conditions. A good choice is a multi-season copolymer ablative paint that will provide excellent protection in most conditions, including high-fouling waters. There are many color choices for bottom paint as well, from traditional black and blue to vivid hues.

Before painting, the surface must be scrubbed clean and any existing paint removed, scraped, or blasted away. Then the surface is sanded down to ensure a solid bond with the new coating. This is a messy job that requires the use of a respirator as well as masking to protect the gelcoat and navigation lights from accidental sanding.

Once the surface is sanded, it is wiped down and thoroughly soaked with the solvent recommended by the bottom paint manufacturer to remove all contaminants. Then it is prepped with a high-quality dewaxing solvent to prepare it for the new coating. It is then masked and finally painted with the selected color and sheen.

The timeframe to complete a bottom painting project will vary depending on the condition of your boat and the contractor’s or boat yard’s backlog. The final price will be based on the size of your boat and the number of coats required. Most professional services will include the costs of all the materials, including gloves, sandpaper, masking tape, protective gear, and painting equipment, as part of their estimate. This is important, as the expense of supplies can add up quickly when doing a large job.

Interior

Painting the inside of your boat is an excellent way to freshen it up and make it look new. While it isn’t as time-consuming or demanding as painting the hull or the bottom, it is still a significant job that requires care and patience. There are many things to keep in mind before you start putting brush to canvas.

First, you’ll need to find a suitable workspace. This should be someplace you can easily work and that isn’t going to be windy. You’ll also want to protect the area from rain and other elements. Ideally, you’ll be able to paint your boat in a shed or garage, but if not, you can use tarps and other materials to create shelter.

Then, you’ll need to gather your materials. These will include tough sandpaper, brushes, rollers, and paint thinner. Each of these can be purchased at a local marine or hardware store. It is also important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each of these items, as they can often be quite precise.

When it comes to the sanding, you’ll typically want to start with 600-grit sandpaper and work your way up through a variety of grits until the surface is smooth and ready for paint. It is a good idea to use electrical tape to mark off each section you are working on so that you don’t lose your place.

Finally, you’ll need to clean the area and dry it thoroughly before you can begin painting. This is an important step, as it will help ensure that the paint adheres and dries properly. Once you’ve done this, you’re ready to get to work!

Once the sanding and cleaning are complete, you’ll want to apply two or three coats of topside paint. This will help your boat withstand the elements and look stunning in the process. Topside paint can be applied using a roller or brush, and it can dry as quickly as an hour after application, depending on the formula.

It’s always a good idea to give the paint some extra time to dry before you try to use your boat again. Most paints will recommend a specific amount of time, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.