As I readied my Hunter 235 this past spring, in anticipation of a great summer of sailing, I noticed the gel coating on the deck looked like I could see through it in spots. I really don't want to re-gel coat the boat and wondered if I might paint the deck. And then the questions began... What kind of paint? What prep work is required? How can i best apply the paint (brush, roller, spray)? Can I paint it on a warm summmer day while it sits in the slip (salt water)? Is this a do it yourself project that any dumbo can do? And most importantly, what are the one or two things that I for sure don't want to do because it'll screw up the project? Any and all advice will be greatly appreciated! Hayden
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You can do it !
Of utmost importance is the prep work, make sure the deck is free of any residual wax, especially ones that contain silicones. A good detergent bath, then a solvent wipedown that is wiped up with a clean rag ( Du Pont Prep-Sol ) immediately. You don't want to just smear the wax around. The solvent will dislodge it, then wipe it away with the clean rag and change rags often. Always wear solvent proof gloves. Pettit Unepoxy is an easy system to use and is tough, lasts for years. Maintains it's gloss almost as good as the professionally sprayed two-part urethanes. My suggestion is , if you have the cash...let a professional do it. This stuff is very hazardous to your health ( if sprayed ). If you are confident in your abilities..go for it, you'll be proud of the result. Good Luck !
Of utmost importance is the prep work, make sure the deck is free of any residual wax, especially ones that contain silicones. A good detergent bath, then a solvent wipedown that is wiped up with a clean rag ( Du Pont Prep-Sol ) immediately. You don't want to just smear the wax around. The solvent will dislodge it, then wipe it away with the clean rag and change rags often. Always wear solvent proof gloves. Pettit Unepoxy is an easy system to use and is tough, lasts for years. Maintains it's gloss almost as good as the professionally sprayed two-part urethanes. My suggestion is , if you have the cash...let a professional do it. This stuff is very hazardous to your health ( if sprayed ). If you are confident in your abilities..go for it, you'll be proud of the result. Good Luck !
Why not gel coat the decks?
Hayden: Why not gel coat the decks again. It is no different from painting, but lasts a lot longer.
Hayden: Why not gel coat the decks again. It is no different from painting, but lasts a lot longer.
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