What characterises boat paint?
Boat paint is a very special type of marine paint specially designed for boats. The paint enhances the appearance of your boat, but it also has several other advantages. Boat paint forms a protective coating, which helps to extend the working life of the boat.
For example, the paint protects the boat from the sun’s UV rays. It also protects the wood from rotting, steel and aluminium from rusting, the deck from wear and tear, and the hull from algae. It is therefore a versatile product that both forms a durable surface on the boat and enhances its appearance.
2 types of boat paint
When you want to paint your boat, you must make sure to use the right type of paint. So, you will need to know how to distinguish between the two types of paint. And the choice depends on where you intend to paint on the boat.
Boat painting above the waterline
Do you need to paint above the waterline, such as the freeboard or other surfaces? It is not typically necessary to paint the freeboard. It is usually sufficient to wax the freeboard and polish it with a soft cloth. However, if it has a lot of scratches or is damaged, painting it may be a good idea.
For this, polyurethane paint is a good choice. This type of boat paint is particularly suitable for the freeboard and other surfaces that are not submerged. The same applies when painting wooden surfaces on the boat. For painting above the waterline, you can also use alkyd paint. It has medium durability, whereas polyurethane paint lasts longer.
Find our boat varnish here
Boat painting below the waterline
It is important that you regularly maintain your boat – including below the waterline. This is where the boat is subjected to water erosion. At the same time, your boat is also exposed to both algae and sharp edges when moving in the water. And this is where antifouling paint is important. Antifouling paint protects the hull and removes unwanted surface deposits and fouling that increases friction against the water.
Use antifouling paint with or without biocides
You can opt for antifouling paint with or without biocides. But what does that mean? Around 95% of all boat owners use traditional antifouling paint which includes biocides. The paint releases biocides such as copper, and this helps to keep the hull free of algae and other unwanted organisms.
Antifouling paint is also available without biocides – also known as non-toxic antifouling paint. This type of paint is especially popular for boats with high speeds.
It is important to note that all types of antifouling paint sold in the EU must comply with environmental requirements. For example, it is illegal to use antifouling paint with biocides in fresh water. Your choice of boat paint depends on both your needs and the specific conditions.
Understand the 2 paint systems
When it comes to boat painting, it is important to understand the two primary paint systems that exist in the boating world. These two systems are known as 1-component paint and 2-component paint, and it’s important that you use the appropriate type for your boat.
1-component paint and 2-component paint
1-component paint is ready to use as is. The paint does not require any further preparation. This type of boat paint is easy to apply and can be a good choice for those who want a quick and easy solution to freshen up their boat.
On the other hand, 2-component paints require an extra step in preparation. This type of paint must be mixed with a hardener, which makes it more resistant to wear and more durable than 1-component paint.
It is important to understand that you cannot use 2-component paint on top of 1-component paint. 2-component paint is stronger, and it can therefore cause problems. If you want to switch from a 1-component system to a 2-component system, the old 1-component paint must be completely stripped first. However, you can use a 1-component product on top of 2-component paint.
Both 1-component and 2-component systems require regular repainting to maintain their appearance and protective qualities. So, no matter which system you choose, it’s important to remember that maintenance is key to keeping your boat in good condition.
Order your boat paint from Biltema
At Biltema, you will find a wide range of boat paints suitable for different types of boats and purposes. With our range of boat paints, you can easily maintain all surfaces of your boat and extend its working life.
We have antifouling paint for use below the waterline – both for freshwater and salt water. We also have boat varnish for use above the waterline, which you can use on steel, wood, or fibreglass. You will also find a selection of primers and thinners that can help you achieve an optimal result.
Do you want to freshen up your boat’s wooden interior? Then we also have wood care products that can help you look after the wooden interior of your boat. And you can rest assured that you will find all the necessary painting equipment at Biltema.
No matter what type of boat paint you need, you will find it at Biltema. We make it easy and convenient to order your boat paint online, so you can quickly start your boat painting project.
Start painting your boat
Painting your boat is an important part of maintaining it, and it is a task that requires time, care and the right choice of boat paint. We offer a few tips to consider before you get started:
- Wash the hull:To ensure the best result, start with a thorough cleaning. If taking your boat ashore for the winter, you should start by washing off slime and algae. This is important as it ensures that the new paint can adhere properly.
- Remove paint residue: When spring arrives and it’s time to paint the boat, it’s important to prepare the hull for a fresh coat of paint. This means that you should remove any old, loose paint residue. You may also want to check how many coats of boat paint the hull already has. If there are many coats, it may be necessary to strip some of the old paint, otherwise the new coats may have difficulty adhering.
- Check the paint system: It’s also important to know which type of boat paint was previously used on your boat. Is it 1-component or 2-component boat paint? This is important to know to determine whether you need to remove the old paint completely or whether the new paint can just be painted on top.
Boat painting is therefore a project that requires time and care, but with the right preparation, you can get off to a good start.
Remember to check the regulations before painting
When painting you boat, it is important that you know which regulations apply. There are regulations governing which type of paint you can use. From an environmental point of view, the antifouling paint you use must correspond to the waters in which your boat operates. Therefore, you must always check the specific regulations that apply to the area where you use your boat.
In addition, there are also rules and guidelines on boat painting. These can vary depending on where you live, so it’s a good idea to do your research before you get started.
FAQs
Does it matter which boat paint I choose?
No, you can choose the paint you prefer. But your choice will depend on whether you are painting below or above the waterline. You should also choose a paint that is suitable for the water the boat will be operated in. You also need to select the right paint system.
How much does boat painting cost?
You can find boat paint in several different price ranges, but typically boat paint is at the lower end of the price scale. This means that maintaining a boat is affordable for most people.
Why should I use boat paint?
Boat paint is used for several different reasons. The purpose is first and foremost to enhance the appearance of the boat. But boat paint also works by protecting the boat from external effects such as weather, wind, salt water, and wear. The paint helps to create a durable finish and extend the working life of your boat.
