Bottom stripping

ronbrockman · #1 09-21-2002

We own an older boat that seems to be in good shape. Below water line has big build up of bottom paint. I would like to use a stripper, but, can I damage the gel coat - fiberglass? I really like this boat & don,t want to screw it up. Any suggestions - HELP!

walt123 · #2 09-21-2002

I used Peelaway #1 on my 43''er to remove many coats of Bottom paint with excellent results. Apply it thickly and allow to work overnight and use a 6 inch scrapper to remove. Put drop cloths below work area and roll up and put in garbage when done. They do not give you enough coverpaper so I bought butcher paper at the local meat market and it works well. The peelaway cannot be allowed to dryout..if it does you need to apply more over it untill it is soft again. I had no damage to my Gel-coat. They do sell a "marine peelaway" but it was more expensive. Wear a paper protective suit and avoid getting it on the skin. and most definitly in the eyes. Home Depot sells it and it is available on line.

windship · #3 09-22-2002

ronbrockman,
Good morning.
Would you mind if I suggest that you use a multi-season ablative paint such as Micron CSC?
Multi-season ablative paints will not build-up because the binder used in the paint is water soluble,so,as the paint disolves,the copper is released.No build-up!And because they are multi-season,just make sure you get a complete power wash and re-coat in the spring.

Dennis

paulk · #4 09-22-2002

We''re also happy with Micron CSC. Putting on two coats of differing colors lets you see how fast it wears so you know when to paint again.

ronbrockman · #5 09-24-2002

Thanks for your help. Now I have a starting point. Ron