Do you want to repaint your fibreglass boat? Fortunately, this solution is within everyone’s reach. However, to ensure a good result, there are a few things you need to do. So, to paint your fibreglass boat correctly, here is everything you need to do.
Find the right paint
To ensure an excellent result, it is always best to choose the right paint. The best solution is to opt for a model specifically dedicated to fibreglass. In fact, on the market you can find fibreglass paints that have been specially manufactured to paint the hull of boats.
This type of boat paint is specifically designed to have additives that prevent the formation of algae and other debris on the boat’s hull. This is why it is also called “anti-fouling” paint.
A good fibreglass boat paint is also highly water resistant as the substrate is kept underwater at all times. Please note that in most cases, a fibreglass paint is diluted with white spirit.
In terms of colour, this boat paint is generally available in white and blue. However, many other colours are available.
Preparing the boat
Before applying the paint to a fibreglass boat, it is very important to prepare the surface well. Start by washing the boat so that no dirt is left on it. Dirt on the hull must of course be removed properly. This requires the use of a pressure washer. You should also have a spatula and a sponge.
Next, in order to protect your boat’s accessories from the paint, you need to dismantle it. To do this, you must remove all the bulky fittings. However, for items that cannot easily be removed, masking tape is required.
Steps to paint a fibreglass boat
Once the surface to be painted is well cleaned, it is recommended to degrease it. For this, the use of a good quality degreasing product is recommended. After that, here are the steps to be carried out:
- Sand the surface to be painted with a medium 80-grit sandpaper;
- Apply a first coat using a roller;
- Sometimes you have to sand lightly in order to properly mask all imperfections;
- Apply 2 to 3 top coats of fibreglass paint;
- Gently sand the hull between these 2 coats;
- Respect the pause time marked on the packaging
For the boat paint to set perfectly on your equipment, it is recommended to innovate when the temperature is between 15 and 20 degrees. It is also important that the humidity level is 60%. If you do not feel up to the task, it is recommended that you call in a professional in the field.