It’s summer, the perfect time to hear down to the coast and enjoy some sand, sea, and sunshine. Some people take it a step further, taking their boat out to make some memories.
If you have your own boat, it probably sits hidden in the garage for most of the year while you wait for your next day out on the water. Or it might be anchored out to sea, collecting salt, algae, and barnacles.
After a few years of either scenario, your boat will be looking worse for wear.
A fresh coat of paint will not only make your boat shine when you set sail, it’ll also prevent wear and tear in the future. Today we’re going to talk about the best paint for boats, and which paints are the most resistant to saltwater.
Best Paint for Boats
Naturally, you can’t just use any old exterior paint on the outside of a boat. It was to be water-resistant, and if you’re going out to sea, resistant to salt too.
Your boat is made up of different materials, so there isn’t a single paint that works for everything. For example, if you have an aluminium hull, you need a rust and waterproof aluminium paint. If it is rubber, only a rubber paint will cling to the surface. Even your engine can be painted with a heat-resistant metal paint.
We’ll try to keep our suggestions generic in this blog, but always keep in mind which parts of your boat you’re painting. If you have paint already and aren’t sure where to use it, consult the manufacturer’s instructions before you dip your paint brush.
You should also consider what type of paint has been used on your paint previously. It’s easier to use the same paint again, as if you want to change, you’ll have to remove all previous layers first.
The best boat paints can also protect from rust and are anti-slip when used in the interior too.
Here are the main types of paint that can be used for saltwater boating:
- Aluminium Paint
- Antifouling Paint
- Epoxy Resin Paint
Some of these paints aren’t widely used, so let’s go over them in more detail.
Antifouling Paint for Boats
One of the biggest issues marine craft face is the buildup of barnacles, algae, and other crustaceans who will want to make a home on your boat. If your boat is anchored out to sea 24/7, this is inevitable, but you can make your boat more resistant to pests with the right paint.
For this job, epoxy paints are the most common. They are hardwearing, and work on a range of surfaces. If you have a fast boat, this should be your first choice.
You can also find copper-free antifouling paints. These offer similar resistance but aren’t as harmful to the sea and its inhabitants.
Epoxy and Polyurethane Paint for Boats
These types of paint are best used above the water line. They aren’t as resistant to constant salt and won’t repel barnacles but are tough enough to last for decades if you keep them clean.
If your boat just needs a freshen-up, and has no damage, these paints are a great way to make it look like new again, at least on the surface.
Enamel Paint for Boats
The type of paint we always recommend is enamel paint. This is perfect for both freshwater and saltwater boating and has incredibly high durability. It is also part of our colour system, simply enter an RAL or British Standard code and we’ll mix your perfect paint in the perfect colour.
Enamel paint also works on the interior of your boat too!
Interior Boat Painting
Of course, it doesn’t matter how good the outside of your boat looks if the inside let’s the side down. Both plastic and wood decking can be protected and improved with the right paint.
Once again, enamel paint is the best for the job, but isn’t the only option. For wood decking, most exterior decking paint will work well, provided they are high quality and won’t be ruined by direct sunlight.
However, a non-slip paint is recommended as a topcoat, as this will keep you and your passengers safe even when the inside of the boat is wet.
Best Undercoat for Boats
It doesn’t matter how good your topcoat is if you don’t pair it with the right undercoat.
Our marine primer can be used on both metal and wooden surfaces, creating a solid surface for your chosen paint to cling to. This is key to protect the hull, even if your paint is chipped and faded after years and hundreds of nautical miles.
How to Paint a Boat – Boat Painting Guide
Once you’ve picked up your paint and have your primer and painting accessories ready to go, it’s time to reinvigorate your boat.
As we mentioned earlier, different surfaces require different paints, but the techniques you’ll use are universal.
Here’s what you’ll need to paint your boat:
- Wax
- Sandpaper/Sander
If your boat has any damage, or there are existing layers of paint that need removing, always do this before you commit to painting. This can be done professionally or by hand, depending on your availability and the extent of the damage.
Choose a few dry days so you have plenty of time to paint your boat. The paint may be waterproof, but if it is rained on before it dries, you’ll be back to square one.
STEP 1 – Prep your Boat for Painting
First, remove all hardware such as teak, rails, and trim. If paint gets on any of these, it will be difficult to remove, and covering them up is a challenge too.
Next, clean the surface as thoroughly as possible. Any dirt, grime, or algae will show through even multiple layers of paint, so never skip this step. If your cleaning uncovers any damage, even small scrapes and scuffs, be sure to repair these first.
By sanding the surface thoroughly, you’ll ensure the surface is even and all flaking paint has been removed. It’s a time-consuming process but is essential for the best results.
STEP 2 – Apply Marine Primer
Next, the marine primer. We recommend a combination of a paint brush and paint roller for both this step and the painting. Use a roller for large areas, with an extended pole, and a paint brush to get any edges and the hard-to-reach bits.
Make sure you overlap each stroke to guarantee even coverage. If you miss any parts, they’ll stand out like a sore thumb when the paint has dried!
STEP 3 – Apply the Paint
Now for the fun part.
As you did with the primer, even coverage is essential. Don’t overload your brush or roller and try to catch any drips before they dry.
If you’re painting decking, make sure paint reaches into the gaps between the planks.
The number of coats you’ll need will depend on the type of paint you’re using. Check the tin for the recommended number.
STEP 4 – Wax the Surface
Normally, this would be the step where you step back and admire your work, but for this painting project there’s one more thing to do.
To make your boat look fantastic, give the surface a thorough waxing once the paint has dried. This will make it shine, and really show off your chosen colour.
STEP 5 – Admire your Work
Once waxing is complete, you can put your feet up and admire your freshly painted (and waxed!) boat. Now all that’s left is to wait for the perfect day to take it out on the water.
Make sure you wash your boat between uses to maximise how long the paint will last.
The UK’s Most Trusted Paint Supplier
Your boat is your pride and joy, it deserves to look its best. With the right boat paint and primer, you’ll be the envy of the seas every time you set sail.
We’re the no.1 choice for tradespeople, with large quantities of paint available at competitive prices, and we’re loved by domestic painters too!
For more painting advice and guides, check out our blog. And if you have any questions about us or any of our products, please get in touch.
