sailboat blue paint

Sailboat Bottom Paint: 10 Best Paints

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

If you leave your boat without protection, it's beyond question that it will start attracting several marine organisms such as slime, algae, mussels, barnacle, and seaweed. This will cover the bottom of your sailboat and may negatively affect your boat's speed and fuel efficiency.

This is exactly why you need to apply the best sailboat bottom paint on your boat.

The freedom that sailing and being off land gives you are immense and almost unmatched.

But do you know that having multiple organisms such as algae, slime, barnacle, seaweed, and mussels grow on your boat can throw everything out on the wind and leave you with a very unreliable boat?

These pesky hangers will put a huge dent in your boat's speed, its movement, fuel efficiency, and overall aesthetic.

That's why you need the best sailboat bottom paint to greatly minimize any damage that might be caused to your boat's hull by marine biological growth.

Also known as antifouling paint, bottom paint is essentially a paint or coating that's specifically designed with elements that prevent various marine organisms such as algae, seaweed, barnacles, slime, and mussels from attaching themselves to your boat's hull or any other part of the boat that's below the waterline.

One of the most important elements of bottom paint is the inclusion of a biocide and copper is the most common. This may, however, depend on the type of boat that you have, how, and where you always use it.

But because there's an ocean of bottom paints out there on the market, choosing the best sailboat bottom paint can be an overwhelming task for most of us.

Fortunately, you can always count on us to make it a lot easier for you. We've gone through many bottom paints and we do not doubt that we've selected the most effective, reliable, and best sailboat bottom paint.

Our unbiased selections will not only match your needs and budget but will be available in a variety of colors to complement and augment your boat's visual appeal.

Table of contents

What to Consider when Purchasing Sailboat Bottom Paint

If you're on the market for the best sailboat bottom paint, it's crucial to go for top quality; something that will offer efficiency, top speed, and excellent performance for your sailboat. With that in mind, here are a few things to consider before spending your hard-earned money on bottom paint.

Your Sailing Location

Where are you planning to sail? Is it on a freshwater body or in a saltwater location? This is essential in helping you determine whether to go for a bottom paint that's meant for saltwater, freshwater, or both. It's generally recommended that you go for a bottom paint that will serve you perfectly well in both freshwater and saltwater. This gives you the versatility of sailing anywhere without worrying about marine organisms damaging your boat's hull.

Launch Time and Recoat Time

It's important to keep in mind that bottom paint products have specific launch time limits. The idea here is to ensure that you launch it within the required timeframe and ensure that recoating is done as required. You should, therefore, choose a bottom paint that offers a lengthy launch and recoat time while offering durable protection for your vessel is the right thing to do.

Type of Boat

You should determine whether your boat is made of wood, fiberglass, or aluminum and go for bottom paint that's suitable for that particular surface. Many bottom paints work perfectly with fiberglass but some work great with aluminum or wooden surfaces.

The Fouling Condition

Having a deeper idea of the type of fouling that you might deal with can be crucial when buying the right bottom paint for you. Whether you're dealing with slime, algae, mussel, or any other type of marine organism, knowing the type of fouling you're dealing with will make it a lot easier to pick the best sailboat bottom paint for your vessel.

Best Sailboat Bottom Paint

Rust-oleum marine flat boat bottom antifouling paint.

As one of the most respected brand names in the bottom paint industry, Rust-Oleum is known for producing some of the best sailboat bottom paint and the Marine Flat Boat Bottom Antifouling Paint is one of them. This bottom pain is designed to be suitable for various conditions (both freshwater and saltwater) and is designed with moderate copper that works great if you are environment-conscious.

This bottom paint does an excellent job of offering a protective coating to ensure that your boat is free of all sorts of unwanted marine organisms. You'll love this paint because it is thick and spreads so easily and will not be a problem even if you're a beginner. This bottom paint offers top-notch antifouling properties and is very easy to apply as long as you use a soft brush and mix it carefully. This is a great bottom paint choice that will offer a sleek multi-season finish and ensure that your boat's hull is always awesome and in great condition.

• ‍ Easy and simple to apply
• Great for both freshwater and saltwater
• Offers gentle fouling conditions
• Excellent in antifouling
• Offer a sleek and awesome finish
• ‍ Quite expensive
• Has a very strong smell that can cause headache

Interlux Fiberglass Bottomkote Antifouling Paint

This is another great brand that is considered as one of the best bottom paint in the sailing world. Even though it's a bit pricey, it offers great features that will ensure that your boat remains in tip-top shape. It is an excellent option if you're looking for a sailboat bottom paint that brings to the fore a unique dual resin approach.

This is a very reliable bottom paint that will not only prevent your boat's hull from the effect of marine organisms but also prevent premature deterioration. It offers an awesome polishing action and is perfecting if you want to discard unnecessary paint buildup. This bottom paint is also very economical and a small quantity will cover a considerable surface area of your boat's bottom.

This is, without a doubt, a superb buy in terms of its practicality and economical nature. It is excellently formulated to prevent marine organisms from damaging your boat and also to ensure that premature wear and tear doesn't exist in your vocabulary.

• ‍ It's formulated with a unique dual resin approach to prevent premature wear and tear
• It prevents early decline
• It prevents unnecessary paint buildup
• Great for ensuring that your boat is fuel effective
• Great for all conditions (both freshwater and saltwater)
• ‍ It's expensive
• The quantity and size can be misleading

TotalBoat JD Select Bottom Paint

As one of the few bottom paints that's formulated with low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC), this bottom paint is one of the most cost-effective on this list. With one gallon, you can easily cover about 400 square feet and the application is a breeze since it's even much easier to clean up.

When you purchase this bottom paint, the package will come complete with a pair of latex gloves, a wooden stir stick, an abrasive pad, a metal tray kit, a paint suit, a roller, a painter's tape, and many more. The inclusion of all these accessories makes it a quite cost-effective purchase.

Again, this is one of the most durable bottom paints. Apply it on your boat's hull and you're guaranteed that it will offer excellent protection for the next 18 months. On the downside, this paint is too thick and you'll have to buy an excellent thinner for it to work perfectly.

Nonetheless, this is an ablative bottom paint that is easy to apply and does an excellent job of protecting your boat's bottom for close to two years.

• ‍ Perfect for all conditions
• Easy to apply and clean up
• Can improve your boat's speed and fuel efficiency
• Comes with all accessories required for the paint job
• It's one of the best water-based bottom paint products in the industry
• It contains low VOC
• ‍ You'll need a top-quality thinner for it to work perfectly

Aquaguard Water-based Antifouling Bottom Paint

An excellent choice for both wooden and fiberglass boats, this is the most perfect bottom point for saltwater conditions. This is a water-based bottom paint that's very easy to apply and clean up (using soap and water) and is formulated with an ablative action that makes it superb for preventing any marine organism that may negatively affect your boat.

This is a bottom paint that is EPA-approved and surpasses the set VOC standards. It has an extended shelf life and offers durable protection for your sailboat. It doesn't contain toxic fumes and is great even for novices. Its drying time is also excellent, so you won't wait for far too long to get your boat out there on the water.

• ‍ Excellent for saltwater conditions
• Application and cleaning is very easy
• It's approved by the US EPA
• You don't have to use a primer
• ‍ The color selection is limited
• A bit pricey

Pettit Hydrocoat

This is another water-based bottom paint that offers outstanding ablative properties that will protect your boat from marine organisms throughout the seasons. It offers good value for money and is easy to apply and clean up with just water and soap.

We're talking about a bottom paint product that will protect your boat's hull for months on end. You also do not need a full tank of the paint to complete the job. With just a single gallon, you can be sure to complete an area as big as 430 square feet.

This is also one of the few bottom paints that can perfectly prevent your boat from damage when being trailered, launched, or beached. More importantly, it's not irritating to the nose and eyes because it has low VOC.

• ‍ It will dry in 3 hours
• It's easy to apply and clean up
• It offers multi-season protection
• It's not irritating to the eyes and nose
• It's quite economical
• ‍ May not be the best in antifouling
• You have to apply at least two coats

SEA HAWK PAINTS Aluminum Boat Paint

One of the best aluminum boat paints in the market, this bottom paint is formulated to offer quick-dry corrosion-blocking, high-solid features. This bottom paint is specifically manufactured to be used in aluminum boats and doesn't require the addition of any primer.

While it doesn't have an antifouling feature, it stands out and can be used both below and above the waterline as it is risk-free and free or chromate. It is also formulated to offer a unique dual resin approach and can be used both as paint and a primer at the same time.

This is a great paint for both freshwater and saltwater conditions and can be applied as a primer or topcoat on a fiberglass boat. This is an excellent sailboat boat bottom paint that's worth every coin as it is practical, versatile, and can combat both rusting and lifting.

• ‍ The application and cleanup process is easy
• Great for both freshwater and saltwater conditions
• It doesn't require a primer
• Can be used as primer or topcoat in fiberglass boats
• Can prevent rusting and lifting
• It has quick-dry and anti-corrosion features
• ‍ Can produce deadly fumes

TotalBoat Spartan Boat Bottom Paint

If you've been looking for a practical, reliable, and cost-effecting bottom paint that will offer durable performance and protection, the Spartan Boat Bottom Paint. Perfect for both freshwater and saltwater, it can be perfect for protecting your boat and ensuring that it is fuel-efficient and reliable.

This bottom paint is formulated with advanced copolymer ablative to ensure that it doesn't deteriorate instantly. This is a very dependable bottom paint that will serve you perfectly throughout the year and will ensure that your boat easily defies fouling while reducing unnecessary buildup and sanding on your boat.

This is a very adaptable bottom paint that not only offers great value for money but is very easy to apply. More importantly, it is very durable and will protect your vessel for at least 12 months on any type of water.

• ‍ Great for all types of water
• It offers a very durable protection
• Available in a wide variety of color selection
• Offer a visually appealing abrasion-proof finish
• ‍ The included accessories aren't up to the right quality

To this end, we must put a lot of emphasis on the importance of having the right bottom paint for your boat. In addition to being an antifouling agent, bottom paint will significantly increase the fuel efficiency of your boat and ensure that it performs optimally at all times. Of course, you do not want to diminish your sailing escapades or have your nice and beautiful vessel damaged by marine organisms just because you didn't apply the right sailboat bottom paint. If you're unsure how to proceed, here's how to paint a sailboat.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Get glossy, professional-looking results without spraying

Wet Edge was created so anyone could easily paint their boat’s topsides with pride and not pay a premium to do it. Of course, you can spray it on if you want to, but simple rolling and tipping produce praiseworthy results. Just remember always to brush from the wet edge into new paint, then leave it alone and it’ll lay down flat, smooth, and glossy. Be careful you don’t get a big head from all the compliments. If you need to prime first, our high-solids TotalBoat Topside Primer was created expressly for use under Wet Edge.

Lay it on thin

To get Wet Edge to cure to a rock-hard, super shiny finish, you have to think thin. Coats, that is. It’s loaded with solids so you don’t need to lay it on thick to get better coverage. You wouldn’t want to either, because it won’t dry as fast as it should. For best color and finish, we recommend 2-3 thin coats.

Very tough and very flexible

Wet Edge topside paint adheres to fiberglass and wood like wet on water, and expands and contracts effortlessly with your ever-shifting hull. Other one-part topside paints can lift, peel, or crack under this type of pressure.

Choose from 22 UV-stable colors or create your own

Consistency and UV stability are hallmarks of the available Wet Edge boat paint colors. From serene to bold and brilliant, these colors will always look as good as the day they were laid down. If you want to make your own color, just mix any of the existing Wet Edge boat paint colors.

Wet Edge Paint Details

• Beautiful, shiny, long-lasting polyurethane marine topside paint with excellent resistance to weather, chemicals, and abrasion.
• Unique formula allows hulls to expand & contract without finish lifting or cracking.
• Brush or spray above the waterline on wood, fiberglass, and previously painted surfaces in good condition.
• Compatible with flattening agents and non-skid additives.
• Pint-size is ideal for painting boot stripes.
• Pint Colors : Flag Blue, Black, White, Fire Red
• Quart Colors : Aqua Mist, Black, Blue-Glo White, Classic Whaler Blue, Bristol Beige, Sand Beige, Fighting Lady Yellow, Fire Red, Flag Blue, Flat Gray, Flat White, Hatteras Off-White, Light Gray, Kingston Gray, Largo Blue, Flat Black, Off-White, Oyster White, Sea Foam, Sea Green, White, Yellow
• Gallon Colors : Black, Aqua Mist, Blue-Glo White, Classic Whaler Blue, Bristol Beige, Sand Beige, Fire Red, Flag Blue, Hatteras Off-White, Oyster White, Light Gray, Kingston Gray, Largo Blue, Off-White, Sea Green, White, Yellow, Fighting Lady Yellow, Sea Foam, Flat White, Flat Black, Flat Gray

Special Brushing Thinner 100

Spray Thinner 101

Dewaxer & Surface Prep Solvent

TotalProtect Epoxy Barrier Coat Primer

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TECHNICAL DATA

• Application Method: Brush, Roll, or Spray
• Recommended roller: We recommend a solvent-safe 1/8" foam roller, designed for leaving glossy surfaces without any stipple or lint. This includes products such as ArroWorthy Mighty Mini rollers, or foam rollers that fit on regular paint roller frames.
• Do not apply with nap rollers. Nap rollers leave small hairs, as well as a stippled effect in the paint that will stand out once it cures, and will generally lay down too much paint for a proper cure.
• Application Film Thickness: 1-2 mils dry @ 3 mils wet
• Coverage (@ 3 mils WFT): 40-50 sq ft/pint, 80-100 sq ft/quart, 350-400 sq ft/gallon
• Number of Coats: 2-3 coats (minimum)
• Application Temperature/RH: 50-90°F, less than 85-90% RH
• Tack-Free Time: 1.5 hours @ 90°F, 3 hours @ 70°F, or 6 hours @ 50°F
• Minimum Overcoat Time: 8 hours @ 90°F, 12 hours @ 70°F, 16 hours @ 50°F
• Not recommended for steel without proper preparation, or aluminum unless properly etched and primed
• Not designed for continuous submersion on boat bottoms that remain in the water longer than 72 hours
• Components: One
• Finish sheen/gloss: High gloss (standard) (85-90°); Flattened (5-10°)
• UV stable: Yes
• Primer: TotalBoat Topside Primer (NOTE: Wet Edge can also be applied over TotalBoat epoxy primer systems, including TotalProtect, 2-Part Epoxy Primers, and Aluminum Boat Barrier Coat. See technical data sheet for details.)
• Thinning: Brush/roll - TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 , 5-10%; Spray - TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 , 10-20%
• Surface prep solvent: TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 or TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 or TotalBoat Dewaxer & Surface Prep
• Cleanup solvent: TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 or TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 or TotalBoat Dewaxer & Surface Prep
• Interior/Exterior?
• Application methods:
• Application temperature & humidity:
• Number of coats:
• UV Resistant?
• Best for: Painting wood and fiberglass boat hulls above the waterline
• Finish: High gloss (all colors); Flat (black, white, and gray only)
• Interior/Exterior? Interior and exterior (above the waterline only)
• Thinner: TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 (brush/roll) or TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 (spray)
• Application methods: Brush, roll and tip, or spray
• Application temperature & humidity: 50-90°F; humidity 0-90%
• Number of coats: 2-3 (minimum)
• Cleanup: TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 or TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 or TotalBoat Dewaxer & Surface Prep
• Coverage: 350-400 sq. ft. per gallon (approximately 80-100 sq. ft. per quart)
• UV Resistant? Yes

Elixir Enamel Topside Paint

• Painting signage and wood, fiberglass & metal boat hulls above the waterline
• Interior and exterior (above the waterline only)
• No primer needed.
• Water, if needed, up to 20%
• Brush, roll and tip, or spray. For brushing, use a tapered polyester brush; for rolling, use a high-density foam roller cover.
• 50-90°F; humidity 0-90%
• 2-3 (minimum)
• Soap and water
• 80-100 sq. ft. per quart (3 mils wet film thickness)

TotalTread Non-Skid Marine Deck Paint

• Provides a non-slip surface on decks, docks, ramps, steps, cabin soles & other fibergalss and wood topside surfaces.
• Flat, gritty
• Exterior (above the waterline only)
• TotalBoat Topside Primer (wood and previously painted surfaces; not needed on properly prepared fiberglass), TotalBoat 2-Part Epoxy Primer (Metals), TotalBoat TotalProtect Barrier Coat (Fiberglass/Metals), TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Barrier Coat (Metals)
• Brushing/Rolling: TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100, 5-10%, if needed; Spraying: TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101, 10-20%, if needed
• Brush, roll, or spray
• Two; between coats, sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper
• TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 or TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 or TotalBoat Dewaxer & Surface Prep
• 250-300 sq. ft. per gallon

TotalBilge Epoxy Bilge Paint

• Painting bilges, bulkheads, lazarettes and locker areas
• Interior only
• TotalBoat TotalProtect — only mandatory on metals, but may be used on properly prepared wood or fiberglass, if desired.
• Brushing/Rolling: If needed, thin 5-10% with TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100; Spraying: TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101, 10-20%
• 50-95°F; humidity 0-90%
• 1-2; between coats, sand lightly with 100-150-grit sandpaper
• TotalBoat Special Brushing Thinner 100 or TotalBoat Spray Thinner 101 or TotalBoat Dewaxer & Surface Prep

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Sailing Smoothly: The Best Guide to Selecting the Perfect Bottom Paint for Your Boat

Maintaining your boat’s performance and longevity is deeply anchored in the choice of the right bottom paint. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a shield against marine life that can slow you down.

Dive into this all-encompassing guide to discover how the right bottom paint, tailored to your boating lifestyle, can make a world of difference.

The Vital Role of Bottom Paint

Think of your boat’s hull as a warrior in constant battle against underwater foes. Without bottom paint, it’s vulnerable to fouling, which can lead to reduced speed and efficiency. The secret weapon? Bottom paint infused with biocides that repel these unwelcome guests, keeping your hull sleek and swift.

Exploring the Seas of Bottom Paint Choices

Navigating the world of bottom paints can be like sailing through uncharted waters. There’s hard paint for the long haul, ablative paint that gracefully wears away with use, and even eco-friendly options that embrace green sailing. Each type has its unique strengths, so your choice should reflect your nautical needs.

The Copper Conundrum

Copper-based paints have long been the go-to for their fouling-fighting prowess. But as we become more conscious of our environmental impact, it’s important to weigh the effectiveness against potential ecological concerns.

Tailoring Paint to Your Boating Style

Your boating habits are the compass that guides your choice of bottom paint. Whether you’re leisurely cruising or racing against the wind, there’s a paint that aligns perfectly with your aquatic adventures:

Cruising Boats

With sleek and sturdy boats, their hulls coated in durable paint, resist the corrosive forces of time and tide. These vessels offer unwavering protection, allowing you to sail confidently through any weather conditions.

Racing Boats

For those seeking speed, ablative paints provide a slick and clean surface that is crucial for cutting through the waves. Their sleek, streamlined bodies sliced through the water with precision and speed. Each boat was coated in a shimmering layer of ablative paint, creating a smooth and clean surface that was essential for achieving maximum velocity.

Factors to Navigate When Choosing Paint

The waters you sail, the material of your hull, and even local laws are crucial markers in your journey to the perfect paint:

As you glide through the vast expanse of ocean, the type of water beneath your boat plays a crucial role in determining the ideal paint for your vessel. The crystal clear waters of a freshwater lake call for a different coating than the salty waves of the open sea. And even the laws and regulations of the local area can impact your choice of paint.

Hull Material

Selecting the hull material for your boat is like choosing a vessel as a sailor. The material you choose will play a crucial role in determining which type of paint will adhere best and provide optimal protection for your boat. Think carefully about your options, for the material itself can greatly impact the performance and longevity of your watercraft on the open seas.

DIY or Professional

Taking on a DIY project can be both exciting and daunting. Are you confident in your skills to paint your own ship, or will you leave it to the professionals? Consider the type of paint you choose–some are more forgiving for those without professional experience. As you set out on this endeavor, envision yourself as a deckhand navigating rough seas, armed with your chosen brush and paint, ready to transform your ship into a masterpiece.

Local Rules of the Sea

As you sail the open sea, always keep a vigilant watch on the horizon for any local regulations that may dictate your voyage. Pay special attention to any restrictions regarding copper-based options, as they may affect your journey in unexpected ways. Stay informed and navigate confidently to ensure smooth sailing ahead.

Final Thoughts

Your boat is more than a vessel; it’s a testament to your passion for the sea. Choosing the right bottom paint is a crucial step in ensuring it remains your faithful companion on countless voyages. With a keen understanding of the types of bottom paint and a thoughtful consideration of your boating style and environment, you can set sail confidently, knowing your boat is as ready for adventure as you are. Keep your hull in prime condition, and the sea will always welcome you with open arms.

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Contact Sea Hawk

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Aluminum Boat Paint

Ah7000 series.

Aluma Hawk is a quick-dry, high-solids, corrosion-inhibiting coating designed for use on aluminum with no need of additional primers. Aluma Hawk is chromate-free and may be used above or below the waterline. Aluma Hawk’s unique dual purpose phenolic resin, allows it to be used as a primer directly on metal with or without a topcoat.

• Rust-inhibiting and lift-resistant primer for lacquer/enamel based topcoats
• Excellent adhesion on aluminum
• Use as a primer and or topcoat on raw aluminum, fiberglass and other substrates
• One-Step application ideal for pontoon boats and jon boats
• Safe for fresh or saltwater submersion

NOTE: Contains no antifouling characteristics

For detailed technical information about this product please download the documents listed below:

Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS Sheet) and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) covers regulatory information including physical data, hazardous ingredients list, safety precautions, storage, handling, spill and disposal procedures, and other important safety information.

Technical Data Sheet (Tech Sheet) contains detailed product information, including application specifications and guidelines.

• SDS Sheet – Aluma Hawk Black
• SDS Sheet – Aluma Hawk Gray
• SDS Sheet – Aluma Hawk Jon Boat Green
• SDS Sheet – Aluma Hawk Tan
• SDS Sheet – Aluma Hawk Blue
• SDS Sheet – Aluma Hawk White
• Technical Data Sheet

Three Ways to Buy Sea Hawk Paint

Locate a certified applicator, find a retail location, related products.

Barnacle Blocker

Marine paint stripper.

Klear Kote Table Top Resin

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Antifouling Boat Bottom Paint

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Interlux VC-17M Antifouling Bottom Paint

Interlux VC-17M Antifouling Boat Bottom Paint New Formula as of April 2022 - Biolux is no longer included in the VC17m formula. This new formula is compatible with VC17m Extra and delivers similar performance. Interlux VC17 Bottom Paint is Only...

Pettit Easypoxy High Gloss Topside Marine Paint

Pettit EZ-Poxy High Gloss Topside Marine Paint There are a lot of choices in topside marine paints, however, Pettit is an industry leader that creates superior marine grade products for all your marine finishing needs. That is why Wholesale Marine...

Mercury 92-802878Q-1 Mercruiser Phantom Black Paint

Quicksilver Mercury 92-802878Q-1Mercruiser Phantom Black Paint Phantom Black is an authentic black paint for Mercury and Mariner Outboards, Sport Jet, and Mercruiser Stern Drives. This aerosol paint is easy to apply and features a fast-drying and...

Interlux Trilux Boat Prop & Drive Antifouling Paint

Interlux Trilux Boat Prop & Drive Antifouling Spray Paint Props and engine drives are constantly being submerged in water, which can cause a breakdown of the metals or corrosion. Protecting them is key to long-lasting props and drives. Interlux has...

Tuff Coat Roller

Tuff Coat Roller Apply your Tuff Coat Non-Skid Coating with this quality roller. Roller evenly distributes the coating quickly and easily. 

Interlux Fiberglass Bottomkote NT

Interlux Fiberglass Bottomkote NT Antifouling Marine Paint Not all antifouling paint is equal in quality. That’s why Wholesale Marine only carries the top industry brands, including Interlux, an industry leader in marine paints. They have been...

Interlux Sikkens Cetol Marine Natural Teak Finish

Interlux Sikkens Cetol Marine Natural Teak Finish Over time, all the potential environmental hazards, such as saltwater, wind, and scorching sun rays, can have their way with teak furniture and decking. Protect your investment with Sikkens Cetol Marine...

Interlux Micron CSC Antifouling Bottom Paint

Interlux Micron CSCAntifouling Bottom Paint Interlux is an industry leader in ablative bottom paints, and it is trusted by boat owners for its long-lasting quality products. Interlux Micron CSC bottom paint is a multi-season ablative product developed...

Interlux Special Marine Paint Thinner

Interlux 216 Special Thinner (Quart) - For Brush or Spray Interlux 216 Special Thinner is a fast evaporating solvent which when added to specified paint coatings improves drying in cold climates, and facilitates spray application. 216 Thinner is also...

Moeller Zinc Phosphate Primers

Moeller Marine Zinc Phosphate Primer Moeller's Zinc Phosphate Primers are quality-tested to meet the needs of the marine environment. This outboard and stern drive self-etching, phosphate primer chemically bonds with aluminum and steel to form a...

Interlux Interprotect Epoxy Barrier Coat Kit - Gray

Interlux Interprotect Epoxy Barrier Coat Kit - Gray Applying Interlux 200E can help protect hulls from damaging water absorption that can cause long-term, costly repairs to your boat. Interprotect 200E is a two-part epoxy coating that will provide...

Pettit 120 Brushing Thinner - Quart

Pettit 120 Brushing Thinner Pettit 120 Brushing Thinner is a general purpose thinner for thinning brushing enamels for easier application. Many paints when stored for some time before use will increase in viscosity and should be thinned with a good...

Tuff-Coat Water-Based Primer

Tuff-Coat CP-10 Water-Based Primer for Concrete, Wood & Fiberglass Tuff Coat Marine is an industry leader in rubberized non-skid coatings for both dock and decks. They are the first choice for boaters and marines for a reliable, attractive, durable...

Redtree Disposable Chip Bristle Brush

Redtree Disposable Chip Bristle Brush The Redtree disposable chip bristle brush is an affordable marine brush for use when applying epoxy and resin. Features: Square Trim Sanded Wood Handle White Bristle...

Redtree Foam Paint Brush

Redtree Foam Marine Paint Brush The Redtree foam paint brush is an affordable disposable brush used for making touch ups to your paint work. Trim Pointed Edge Wood Peg Handle Black Foam Stock Use for Touch-Ups 1/2" Thickness

Interlux ACT Ablative Antifouling Bottom Paint

Interlux ACT Ablative Antifouling Bottom Paint Interlux ACT Antifouling Paint Ablative provides excellent season-to-season protection. Its formula includes Interlux’ Ablative Technology to remove fouling, eliminate coating build-up and with it the...

Interlux Trilux 33 Antifouling Boat Bottom Paint

Interlux Trilux 33 Antifouling Bottom Paint Trilux 33 is formulated to provide the most effective protection for fiberglass, wood, and all underwater metal surfaces. This antifouling bottom paint is tin-free and is perfect for maintaining bright colors...

Interlux Interprotect Epoxy Barrier Coat Kit - White

Interlux Interprotect 200E Epoxy Barrier Coat Kit - White Formulated with a unique two-part epoxy coating, Interlux Interprotect 200E is the perfect product to protect and seal hulls from moisture and water absorption that can cause rotting and...

Redtree Deluxe Mohair 3/16" Paint Nap Roller Cover

Redtree Deluxe Mohair 3/16" Paint Nap Roller Cover Redtree's marine paint roller covers are designed for optimal performance in marine paint applications. The Deluxe Mohair roller cover is ideal for use with enamels, varnishes, and urethanes. Smooth...

Pettit Vivid Hard SR Ablative Antifouling Bottom Paint

Pettit Vivid Ablative Antifouling Boat Paint A top marine paint brand, Pettit is known for its innovative and high-quality bottom paints. They are committed to providing their customers with the latest in technology in bottom paints. Pettit Vivid brings...

Boat paint and marine paint are not the same formulations as interior or exterior house paint that you can buy at any warehouse store. That’s because marine grade paint is oil-based, whereas the latter is latex-based. This means that boat paint will hold up better and wear longer when used on boat surfaces, especially those submerged in water. When your craft requires painting, give us a call. Wholesale Marine is a leading retailer of marine paint and only carries the top brands like Aquagard , Interlux , Tuff-Coat , Pettit , Moeller Marine , and more.

There are different types of boat paint for a wide range of marine applications. Antifouling boat bottom paint, marine primers, marine varnish, topside boat paint, and engine spray paints. Make sure, when you are selecting paint for your boat, that it is the right one and has been specifically formulated for the appropriate application. Using the incorrect marine-grade paint can lead to corrosion, oxidation, and other damage. If you are not sure which marine paint is right for your task, just ask our knowledgeable representatives.

Protect Your Boat With Marine Paint

For example, protecting the hull of your boat with the proper antifouling boat bottom paint can prevent damage and costly repairs. Antifouling paints come in hard and ablative options that help protect from various organisms attaching to your boat and causing hull damage.

Topside boat paints are for use above the waterline including the sides, hull, deck, and interior of your vessel, and provide a protective barrier between your boat and the elements. We offer a wide range of options for all applications.

When shopping for your marine-grade paints, make sure you have all the painting accessories you will need to get the job done. At Wholesale Marine we offer one-stop shopping and an unmatched selection of painting supplies that covers everything from brushes, rollers, tape, and more.

Plan to contact Wholesale Marine for all your boat painting needs. We not only have one of the largest online inventories of boat paint and supplies but expertise as well and gladly offer sound advice. Remember, if you are not sure which type of marine paint is right for your needs, just give us a call and consult with one of our representatives. You can contact us at 877-388-2628. Our boating experts are here to help Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 4:30 PM EST. You’ll save even more by signing up for our Captain’s Club Rewards Program and begin to accrue points for extra discounts the next time you shop at Wholesale Marine!

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• Boat Maintenance

Picking the Best Bottom Paint

This month’s report on bottom preparation is another reminder that the most effective paint as determined by our past testing might not always be the best for your circumstances or location.

Unless you’re prepared for more prep work than a light sanding, the first step in selecting a bottom paint is finding one thats compatible with whats on your hull now. All of the manufacturers in our test will provide guidance on this, either over the phone or on the company website.

Generally, you can repaint a hard paint with either a hard or soft paint, while a soft ablative paint will need more sanding or a tie-coat primer when being coated with a hard paint. Bare fiberglass or metal will require a primer, and aluminum components like saildrives need a special copper-free paint that wont induce potentially disastrous galvanic corrosion.

Before paying more than $250 or more a gallon, consider your priorities.

Application: With no unpleasant solvents, water-based paints are the easiest and safest to apply.

The environment: Driven by legislation regulating copper loading in sensitive waters, this is a fast-growing field. In recent tests the copper-free blends from Epaint have proven the most effective in marine environments. This is good news for owners of aluminum boats, which are incompatible with most copper-laced paints. Freshwater boats will be pleased with some of the less expensive paints featured in this months report.

No paint buildup: Over time, ablative paints wear away; hard paints generally form thick layer cakes.

Quick recoating: Hard paints can take a second coat sooner than ablatives, although some of the newer copolymer ablatives can be recoated after four hours or less. Thin-film Teflon paints for racing boats can dry in a matter of minutes.

Haulout schedules: Some paints (typically hard paints) lose their effectiveness if not launched within a certain time frame, or if the boat is hauled out and then relaunched without painting. Some paints you need to lightly sand or scuff to reactivate before relaunching.

Trailerability: Some ablative paints are designed to resist abrasion from trailering. Most hard paints will trailer well, but not all are meant to dry out.

Color: Pettit Vivid, Interlux Trilux, and Blue Water Kolor offer broad palette choices. Typically, the low-copper paints (Epaint being an exception) offer more color choices. If potency is what you’re after, some makers suggest black, although our panel studies are inconclusive regarding this. Some brands (such as Pettit) put a little more copper in some of their red paints.

Want to be a part of our bottom paint testing program? Fill out this quick survey at https://goo.gl/qTbu6p so we can share your experience with other sailors.

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