Gelcoat Protection

[Mike Berger]

I just took delivery of a new Caravelle bowrider. Once we take it to the lake, it will spend the entire summer in the water. What product(s) can I apply to the hull to protect from blistering and scum?

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

Congrats on the new boat.I would recommend applying an alblative(someone spell check me) antifouling paint to the bottom.It will wear off as the season goes on so the build up will be minimal.As far as the gelcoat goes ,apply a good quality carnuba or silicone wax as often as you can.I have had good luck with Dolfinite t-wax but everyone has their favorite.Charlie

 

[Mike Berger]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

I'm not really looking for a paint. Overton's has Super Slick. What would that do for me?

 

[flashback]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

NoMoney, I assume that since you are from KY, that you are in freshwater(land between lakes etc) If this is the case I would not paint the bottom, but rather use the super slick if you want, as far as above the waterline, go with Charlie's suggestions and in addition, use a custom made fabric cover. sun is what kills the gelcoat, keep the sun off, it will look like new 30 years from now..

 

[Solittle]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

In my view the only time that you need anti fouling paint is when you store the boat in salt water. Once you put this stuff on you are stuck with it. It works great in a very nasty environment. Barnacles are a bit*h.

 

[DJ]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

Unless a boat is used very frequently and scrubbed down regularly, fresh water will foul a boat just as bad as salt. True, there are no barnacles, yet there are plenty of other nasties.<br /><br />You have to make a choice. Brush down the bottom at least weekly, paint it, or lift it.<br /><br />Even brushing it down weekly will not stop tanic acid (dark brown stained water) stains.

 

[Mike Berger]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

I'm mainly concerned about that which is below the waterline.

 

[quantumleap]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

I'm with DJ on this one, it doesn't matter if you're on a clear looking freshwater lake, organisms WILL find a home on the bottom of your boat if you leave it in the water. I would paint it or lift it. You would have to be religious about bottom scrubbing to keep it in decent shape. That is, unless you really aren't concerned about the appearance and possible perform loss due to a dirty running surface. Can't you pull it out on the trailer when you are done? You will have to pull it out anyway to clean the bottom, so why not leave it out? You didn't mention how often you will be using it?

 

[johnnybigrigger]

Re: Gelcoat Protection

Congrads on the new toy. I have always found the guys at Port Leisure Marine an easy bunch to deal with.