Bottom paint

[Gradywhite3535]

I'm a beginner to boating and i just bought the boat recently. A friend came by and saw the bottom and said i should repaint the bottom with anti fouling paint. Do you think it has to be painted? It seems like it is cracking and worn out. Would I be able to get by for just this season. If i have to paint it does it have to be sanded or can I paint right over the existing paint?do I have to buy the same paint that is already on or use a primer and paint right over? Thanks a ton

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Bottom paint

Salt water . . . Yes should do a recoat.

light sanding, wear a mask dust is toxic, looks like your basic copper ablative paint in black. Very common paint.

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Bottom paint

If this boat will be slipped this season, you'll have to redo it. If you're going to trailer it, then no.

 

[gm280]

Re: Bottom paint

Personally if it were my boat, then yes I would paint it, and absolutely yes to sanding it down before painting it as well. From the picture you posted I would most assuredly sand it down and smooth out any problems before spending any money and time to repaint it. Better to do it right the first time then to have it peel off quickly and again spend more money to do it again... But that IS just my personal feelings... But just to warn you, I have a thing about my boats looking and operating perfectly...and this is just my opinion...

 

[Gradywhite3535]

Re: Bottom paint

Should I be sanding it down to the point i don't see anymore black or just to prep it so the new paint will go on better? Do by hand or orbital sander? What would be a good grit? Thanks guys

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Bottom paint

Should I be sanding it down to the point i don't see anymore black or just to prep it so the new paint will go on better? Do by hand or orbital sander? What would be a good grit? Thanks guys

No, you just want to get into some fresh paint and rough up the surface a bit. I'd be using about 150 grit . . . maybe even 180. orbital sander may be OK, your choice.

wear your dust mask.