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Marine paint supplies are essential for achieving the desired finish, whether restoring a historic vessel or simply wanting to give it a fresh new look. Before you start painting, you’ll need to prepare your vessel by repairing any holes and using a marine solvent to remove any loose or waxy paint. After you’ve removed any loose paint and wax, you should repair any necessary holes and cracks with marine-grade epoxy.
Also, before buying marine paint, you should know what type you want. Some colors are suitable for freshwater, while others need to be used in saltwater.
Bottom Paint
When shopping for marine paint supplies, there are several factors to consider. First, the color and type of paint you choose are essential considerations, but you should also consider the type of vessel you plan to paint. Some types of boats are more difficult to paint than others. For instance, a pontoon boat requires more work than a conventional boat because the surface area is so large. Other factors include climate, the material of the ship, and the antifouling bottom paint you use. Also, the longevity of the color is essential, considering how many years the boat will be in the water and the amount of time between dry-docking.
Using a primer on the bottom of the boat is very important if you plan to paint it. A primer can make it challenging to see worn layers of paint. Usually, primer is applied before the color, but there are times when it’s not necessary. Some marine paints don’t require a primer layer.
Modified Epoxy
Whether you’re looking for a low-cost single-season or more advanced antifouling solution, modified epoxy marine paints can deliver the desired results. These products adhere well to various surfaces and are suitable for use over many types of marine paint. They also don’t wear off, although they must be stripped of their finish over time.
Modified epoxy paint supplies have excellent durability and abrasion resistance. They are also easy to clean and resistant to chemicals. For example, VC-17m, one of West Marine’s most popular modified epoxy paints, requires four to six hours for a single coat to dry. However, following the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential to cure the paint entirely before relaunching it. In addition, if you plan to use modified epoxy marine paint on a boat that’s going to be out of the water for a long time, you should follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for out-of-water storage and relaunch.
Antifouling Paint
Antifouling paint is a vital part of keeping your boat’s bottom clean. It will keep your hull from harboring marine growth and help reduce fuel costs. In addition, it will make your boat safer and faster. A fouled bottom reduces your speed and maneuverability and will increase your fuel bill.
Antifouling paints are available in different colors, so it is essential to know what you need before buying. The type of paint you purchase will affect the longevity of the protection. You’ll want to look for a hard enough product to stand up to beaching and the trailer. You should also check the compatibility chart to be sure it can be applied to other paints.
Antifouling paints are essential for boats that spend time in tropical and salt water. If you have a large ship that spends a lot of time in the water, antifouling paint will help protect it from marine growth. Copper-free colors, for example, are effective against slime, algae, and acorn barnacles.
Two-Part Polyurethane
If you want to repaint your boat’s hull or deck, you may consider using two-part polyurethane marine paint supplies. This type of paint will last the longest and look the best. It will even outshine the original gel coat, but it’s also more expensive. In addition, you’ll need to mix the paint in a specific way, requiring a particular temperature and humidity level to cure and set.
PU paints are made by mixing two components in a precise ratio. The two-part polyurethanes dry faster than three-part marine paints, improving gloss, color retention, hardness, and overall film integrity.
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