Bottom Paint Compatibility

[Dan Dickison]

How do I refinish a bottom already painted with VC17? I would like to use a different brand of paint.

Dan Dickison responds:
We don't recommend painting over any bottom paint, unless you're using the same brand and product that's already there. For VC-17M, the teflon-based paint produced by International/Interlux, you'd be best off checking with an Interlux dealer or consulting the compatibility chart supplied by the manufacturer.

If those options aren't available to you, then here's what I recommend: make sure you sand or scrape all the old paint off. Chances are the new paint you want to use won't be compatible with the VC-17M and therefore won't bond well. If that's the case, you'll end up with a lousy paint job, so just invest the time and elbow grease to do it right.

If you're doing this yourself, after you get all the old paint off, powerwash the hull, let it dry, and then prep the bottom according to the recommendations given by the manufacturer of the paint you intend to use. Most likely they'll ask you to sand and wipe the bottom, but they might also have a primer or wash solution that they require you to use before the first coat. This simply varies from paint product to paint product, so be sure you know what you're getting into before you buy the paint. Best of luck with getting a good paint job on your boat.