bottom paint

[dan]

I have been told by A couple old salts that when I repaint the bottom , I should use A different color . Is there any thuth to this? Also The bottom is a red pettits paint now . Can I paint this with a different kink of paint? thanks for the reply.Dan

 

[Walt]

Yes and No

First you have to determine what type of paint is on the boat now. Is it a hard (modified epoxy) or soft(ablative) paint? Or even a vinyl paint?Generally, you can put a hard paint on top of a hard paint with minimal sanding. And, you can put a soft paint over a hard paint or over a soft paint with minimal sanding. But you can't put a hard paint over a soft paint without sanding off most of the soft paint.Get a Boat US or West Marine catalog. Both have extensive info on types of paint and compatability.The idea of putting a different color over the old one works best with soft paints. You can see the old color come through as the new paint wears away. You know then it's time to repaint.Personally, I like the soft ablative paints.

 

[Ernie April]

Two reasons for changing bottom color...

I assume, Dan, that we are talking different color of the same brand/type of bottom paint.(1) If you are not into hauling and re-painting the bottom every year, the appearance of the original color of an ablative paint will tell you that it is time to re-paint.(2) You prefer another color.I've done both...Ernie April