Boat Paints
June 13, 2009 by Chris Wethered
Filed under Fiberglass Boat Repair And Sailboat Painting
Basic Boat Paints Types:
Before you start on your project, you need to research what's what. The following is an overall look at those.
Thinners
Thinners are an integral part of boat paints system. They should be used periodically through the process. Thinners stop bristles sticking together and allows smooth application. Use thinners at least ever hour if not more frequently. Especially when you take breaks.
Primer / Undercoats
Most overlay systems are a two part process. The first coat is to prepare the surface for the topcoat. Depending on which brand you choose, determines how many undercoats you need. Always check drying times. It's best to do one full coat at a time so the drying time is easier to follow.
Primers can be used underwater or on deck but read the instructions first.
Topcoats
Tend to be hi gloss finishes. The are made from an epoxy base which dries to a shiny finish - unless otherwise stated. If you are using a brush or roller, wear a mask to protect yourself from fumes. If you choose to spray on coatings, then be extra careful as the vaporised paint is highly toxic!
What is your color?
Two Pack Epoxy Systems
Epoxy based product that helps to prevent / cure osmosis. The epoxy is a resin which fills any scratches or blemishes in the hull. A thorough inspection of the hull should be a primary consideration when the boat is out of the water. Osmosis damage can be spotted by blisters appearing on the hull.
If you need to use epoxy, do so before painting the hull.
Varnishes
If you want to protect your woodwork without boat paint, then varnish is the answer. Usually tung oil. It can also protect against UV damage. When applying varnish be extra careful that you don't put too much on your brush at anyone time.
Because of it's flow characteristics, varnish can be tricky. Practice is best prior to application. So you get a sense of the product and how easily it is to use.
What to look out for with paints
- Shelf life is two years - check, but read below
- Ask what conditions it has been kept in, if stored in cool, dry conditions then five year old is fine
- When considering two part paint, use the right curing agent
- Beware curing agent storage - cool dry, not moist, damp
- Look out for colors discontinuing - you may need to alter the color of your vessel!
Customer Service
Want more for your money? West Marine are giving away 10% on orders over £100!
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Boat Painting
June 13, 2009 by Chris Wethered
Filed under Fiberglass Boat Repair And Sailboat Painting
What to bear in mind when boat painting: Bright work screams a message to all that see it. The content of that message is down to you! Preparation work is essential to sending a positive one!
Preparation
For deck and hull work the following is a good indication of what to do prior to fulfilling the inner artist:
- Clear the deck of hardware and anything that is screwed down where you want to paint. This allows a continuous paint application and reduces potentially premature wear. Particularly at points where the hardware would have met the paint.
- Thoroughly clean the surface in preparation for boat painting. Using a mild detergent won't do any harm. The tough bit is getting rid of grease which has built up underneath hardware overtime. Acetone is useful at shifting grease.
- De waxing might be called for if silicone has been used as a temporary sealant. The results your looking for are smooth, clean surfaces. If the surfaces are not clear of residues and smooth, then the imperfections will be visible.
- Be sure the current finish is not flaky as this will ruin your effects when you have finished. As the brush passes over the flakes, they will lift off and disrupt your application, moving flakes around with your brush will not end happily!
- Sand back the previous paint work gently removing the flakes. If flakes are present, it's best to sand the full area just in case. Sweep or vacuum the dust away and then prime the surface with mineral spirit.
- Choose your day wisely as rain will streak freshly applied paint!
All about knowing what outcome you want
Choosing The Right Tools - Brushes / Rollers
The right tools can set apart a good job from bad. Investing in top end brushes and rollers will do your bright work justice. The quality of a brush / roller is reflected in how the paint goes on. Avoid brushes where bristles easily fall out. Cleaning and wrapping your tools after each use will repay your investment.
Choose from the range of brushes and paints below
The sooner you start your project the soon you could be the admiration of the whole marina!
Did you know about the 10% discount at West Marine right now?
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Gelcoat Repair
June 13, 2009 by Chris Wethered
Filed under Fiberglass Boat Repair And Sailboat Painting
The outer layers of polyester resin can be up to two centimeters thick. Gelcoat repair needs a few tools and concentration.
The outer protective layer can suffer from scratches and impact holes.
Fix Kit
A fix kit come as resin or paste/putty. Paste is best on scratches, whilst resin in the form of laminate sheets is used on more extensive damage. Pigments have to be used, in order for a proper color match with the surrounding areas.
Within a kit there is usually a standard range of pigments. These can be mixed to match, or an individual pigment can be brought. Use pigment sparingly and mix thoroughly before application.
How To Fix Scratches
- It is best to identify how deep a scratch is before filling it with putty or paste. Get a gelcoat repair kit, then enlarge the scratch.
- Fill the scratch with the replacement coating from the repair kit.
- As the resin cures it will recede. Leaving a gentle bump where the scratch was. This can be easily sanded and buffered after curing is complete.
Shiny, protective gelcoat needs care and attention
How To Fix Holes
Get enough resin replacement coating prior to starting. If the damage is extensive, then use sheets of laminate rather than thickened resin - it's quicker and reinforces the structure too.
Waxing And Osmosis
As the gelcoat ages, it looses its shine. The wax used to shine the hull stops osmosis setting in. So when you notice the shine going on your hull, it’s time to get her out of the water for some wax!
First Porosity Then Osmosis
To prevent porosity you need to dewax and sand a test area of hull and then apply paint. Watch for bubbles in the paint if they are present then action needs to taken!
Want more for your money? West Marine are giving away 10% on orders over £100!
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