Removing paint build-up.

BubbleheadMd · #1 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

Is it unrealistic to expect soda blasting to remove moderate to severe paint build-up on a 42 year old hull?

If not, are there other media blasting methods that would be more effective (ie beads, crushed walnut shell, etc)? Are these other methods typically offered at marinas and boat yards?

ffiill · #2 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

Random orbital sander works very well-previous owner of my 34 footer did most of this and I am finishing it off.
Not a quick process but so long as you use a fine enough grit it has a really good result.

tommays · #3 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

I have found the OMC tools rigid razor blade holder i got at Pep-boys

To be the best tool for the job like carving wood it will take a bit of time to work out your technique (angle of attack

) BUT once you do it is fast and leaves the least mess at the LOWEST cost

I have a good vacume sander and even with good paper its slow and very easy to do a golf ball finish when your removing huge amounts of paint

sailingdog · #4 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

I don't see why sodablasting shouldn't work on your boat.

rayncyn51 · #5 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

We just had a pretty nasty accumulation of paint blasted off the bottom of our '79 C-30. We are quite happy with the results. She's in a yard over on Kent Island, if you'd care to drive over and have a look. Cost was $1,300 vs. $2,000+ quoted for sanding. There are a couple of people in the area who are top notch. PM me if you want specifics.

tommays · #6 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

The problem with soda is the limited amount of good drivers

and the job REALLY depends on there skill

zz4gta · #7 (**permalink**) 10-25-2010

Do it yourself if you have the time, I used an orbital sander and then longboarded the gelcoat before barrier coating and paint.
If you don't have the time, go to Muller Marine up by you. He'll give you a race ready bottom, but you'll pay for it.