Bottom Paint

[Pete Redburn]

Time to paint my bottom...it was last done three years ago next week...I'd like to get another three years, two at least...moored 100% in salt water, year round. What bottom paint should I request the yard to use???

 

[Todd Osborne]

Ask the Boat Yard...

They are the experts, just double check to make sure they don't take you to the cleaners. You'll get as many different responses as there are brands. But for point of refrence, I moor in Puget Sound & use Pettit Trinidad (SR) on my Cat 30. It takes just over one gallon if you are overcoating an existing (non-ablative) paint. Also have your thru-hulls/valves checked for possible replacement while the boat is dry docked.

 

[R.G. Miller]

same here

I've also used the Pettit brand up here in Vancouver. The Trinidad is very good but the last couple of times I've used their other paint....one step down (cheaper)...I find that I can get a really good coat out of one gallon on my C-320....Don't know if you'd get it to last for 3 years though.

 

[Ed Schenck]

Use a modified-epoxy.

This is the UNpopular answer. Most answers in the archives are ablative or teflon. But I noticed in a recent Practical Sailor(I think) that the Calypso crew has switched away from the ablatives. The modified-epoxy paints are hard and fast. Yes, they will build up over time. But if you can get three seasons with NO scum or wildlife it's worth a little sanding for the next coat. I think it's a question of what best controls growth. My Trinidad SR hardly needed pressure washed after last season but then I am in fresh water(Erie).

 

[hp]

Trinadad Hands down

Ihave tried Micron and have moved from FL to VA in Chesapeake Bay now, Trinadad or Trinadad SR is the only way to go. Easily get 2 full seasons even with frequent cleanings. Use red if you can as it contains more copper. Copper works, newer chemicals and additives aren't there yet