Protecting A Painted Hull?

[jviss]

My new boat has painted topsides, probably Awlgrip or Awlcraft - not sure yet what it is.

I was told by the surveyor that bare fenders will damage the paint, and I should get fender covers. Fine.

But, what about my dinghy? It's an AB rib, made of hypalon (CSM) with a vinyl (?) rubstrake. Will his damage the paint, too?

Also, what kind of material would be 'protective' for a boarding step that contacts the hull? (Any suggestions on boarding steps?)

Thanks,

jv

 

[justsomeguy]

Also, what kind of material would be 'protective' for a boarding step that contacts the hull?

Suede leather?

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

We have had painted topsides on our last two.

Stay away from the canvas-type fender covers typically found at WM et.al. We use Polar Fleese covers which are softer. Our neighbor does as well. His wife made theirs which allows an abundance of color/pattern choices.

Same for dinghy fenders tied horizontally between handholds. Probably overkill as there isn't much mass rubbing there.

Lots of folks use suede on the ladder steps like jsg suggested.

 

[shemandr]

Fenders with Boat Blanket by Sailrite covers caused minor scratches in my gelcoat. I never tried to compound them out since with wax they were almost invisible. But they were there. Anything that contacts the hull constantly will eventually damage it. I used to put fender boards out at my slip with covered fenders between the hull and fender. After I noted the scratches I stopped that and let the rub rail take the pole abrasion - it was made for that.