Maskin tape for bottom painting

[saaristo]

Going to bottom paint completely new hull bottom. So I got it all figured out regarding which primer and how many coats and what grit sandpaper to use etc etc. However, one thing is a bit fuzzy still - do you change the masking tape between sanding the gelcoat and painting? Odds are that the fine edge of masking tape will get ruined while going oved it with sandpaper? What are the professional tricks here?

 

[Scott Danforth]

yes.

actually, you paint just past the sanding a slight bit.

 

[Chris1956]

it is not necessary to use tape when sanding. Masking tape simply gives a you a straight neat line, when you paint.

You are going to use a 2 part epoxy barrier coat under the antifouling paint, right?

 

[saaristo]

it is not necessary to use tape when sanding. Masking tape simply gives a you a straight neat line, when you paint.

You are going to use a 2 part epoxy barrier coat under the antifouling paint, right?

Correct! But if you don't use masking tape during sanding, how do you avoid of sanding marks above the paint line or vice a versa non-abraded surface near the upper end of paint line?

 

[Chris1956]

Gee, be careful to get the sanding line straight. Sanding lines do not need to be nearly as straight as paint lines.

Since you will sand the hull smooth, before painting, you will not see any small amount of sanding above the paint.