Restoring Dinghy

bushrat · #1 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008

Hi-If you all recall I have a new to me dinghy thats almost done fixing. This winter I picked up a 10' Boatex dinghy with scrapes and gouges and a 2x4 inch hole in the gunnel. I've done all the patching, scraping, sanding etc and finally at the painting stage. I'm using Interlux premium enamle on the inside and down to the water line. Since I had so many patches I decided to go that far with the paint. Since this is 80% of the boat, should I just do the whole bottom with this paint even though it's for topsides? It will only see occasional fresh water use.

The first coat went on last night in cool and damp conditions and it's raining today and cool again. The paint has stayed tacky. Should I go for another coat today without sanding or should I wait for it to set more and sand then recoat?

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008

Bushrat-

Topsides paint generally doesn't fare well if immersed for extended periods of time and will likely blister and peel rather quickly. You need to use a bottom paint for the bottom of the boat, whether it is an antifouling paint or not is a different question entirely.

chucklesR · #3 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008

I'd go with a 2 part epoxy paint for the bottom if you want something that is able to stand up to the immersion. It's not hard to apply at all, just roll on and 'tip' off with a brush.

If you don't mind repairing once a season, and want to save a buck regular house hold latex works too.

pfatyol · #4 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008

I did my with interlux topsides paint about three years ago, the whole hull. It is stored on the dingy dock and the only problem I have had is the paint being scrapped off when I drag it up on to the dock prior to turing it upsidedone. the dock is approximately 18" above the waterline, and I drag it up and push it in myself. on the bright side, Dump Duck droppings have not stained it.

Pat

bushrat · #5 (**permalink**) 05-07-2008

Well, I answered my question the hard way

I just ruined a good looking first coat. I should of waited. I thought I would add a bit of thinner to help in the cool damp weather and now it looks like shi--. Quite a bit of orange peel starting. Now I'm in for a lot of sanding and another coat, RATS!!!