When your boat is in the water, it is fighting against contaminants, rough terrain, and even sometimes animals! Plus, depending on the season, marina, and boating area, these things can change often. Since that is the case, how do you navigate the cloudy waters of protecting your boat’s underside? Easy – with bottom paint! Gain a better understanding by reading through these 5 misconceptions about bottom paint and learn why your boat needs it.
All Bottom Paint is NOT the Same
Some boaters may think that all bottom paint is the same, but they are wrong! In fact, there are three basic types: hard paint, ablative paint, and copolymer paints. Different bottom paints boast different features and degrees of protection. For example, copolymer paints can be exposed to air without losing its effectiveness. It is important to know that not all bottom paints do the same thing!
Adapt Your Choice of Bottom Paint to Your Environment
Don’t be fooled by the things growing on the underside of your boat. It may always look the same but what grows down there depends on water temperature, salinity, the density of local underwater flora and fauna, the hull, and how often you use your boat. What that all means is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to bottom paint, and your paint of choice should be appropriate for where you go boating!
Regulations Don’t Compromise Quality
Bottom paints of old typically contained more toxic materials, such as copper and volatile organic compounds. Recently, however, those harmful formulas have been replaced by “green” ingredients that are better for the health of the earth. Nowadays, the market has more water-based paints and solvent-based paints that will protect your hull without damaging the environment.
Not Everyone Can Apply Bottom Paint
Each application of bottom paint requires an in-depth knowledge of the process. For example, not allowing enough time between coats or not getting the boat in the water soon enough after a painting can compromise the effectiveness of the bottom paint. Attempting to apply bottom paint yourself can be difficult, time-consuming, and even dangerous! Unless you are an expert when it comes to all things bottom paint, leave your boat in the hands of professionals.
Bottom Paints are Being Innovated Constantly
Many manufacturers of bottom paint are vying with one another to be the next big thing in eco-friendly and effective solutions. Some of these technologies have been around for years, though they are constantly evolving to this day. New products in the market include nanotechnology with quartz-based, thin, clear, and biocide-free coatings that are able to protect running gear, trim tabs, and other metal components under the water.
When the time comes to choose a bottom paint for your boat, or apply bottom paint, then you should not rush through it. This is a decision that benefits from doing your homework! Applying the right bottom paint will ensure that your boat’s performance and health stay in top-notch shape for years to come. If you’d like to know more about bottom painting services and other boat detailing for your new boat, then reach out to the friendly team at Great Lakes Yacht Sales!
