Paint Options

gatorbait · #1 06-09-2006, 08:04 PM

After 3 months...weekends that is my 20FT 77 Seafari is almost ready for paint. I did numerous searches on this site, but didn't really get the answer I need.

The owner of the boat before me half %@&#$ a paint job. I've since sanded down to the original gel coat and against the wishes of some, I filled in the bilge vents because I have an outboard and I just think it looks cleaner. So I'll be ready for paint by the end of the month and need some recommendations.

I have the tools and experience with a spray gun and would like to use this method but given peoples results with the "roll and tip method" I may opt for that if the results were very similar. Here's the thing, I have a shed I can pull my boat into and convert to a paint booth, but if I can get the same results without that hassle I'm game. I'm also considering the horror stories I've read about the health hazards of spraying a good two-part polyurethane. I want nice finish and don't mind the work, but also want to live to see it.

If I truly can get a great finish using the roll and tip method, please let me know what brand and type of paint you would recommend. Please any help will be greatly appreciated.

NoBones · #2 06-09-2006, 09:28 PM

Awl Grip, Spray-it, Wear a respirator, and a paper paint suit. Nothing like a clean spray job.
See ya, Ken

ocean · #3 06-09-2006, 10:40 PM

I am using a paint called 'signature finish', roll and tip, 3 coats.
These are the same people that manufacture the Honey Teak product.
We have had tremendous success and no hassle.
Good Luck

gatorbait · #4 06-09-2006, 10:50 PM

NoBones would you recomend spraying two-par poly, or one part and why? I'm guessing two part for a better overall finish and durability.

FELLOW-SHIP · #5 06-13-2006, 10:20 AM

Ha Gator Bait

IF YOU USE A AIR SUPPLY SYSTEM AND PAPER SUIT + EXPERIENCE with spraying and a place to spray. I would go that way for a few reasons. First off it will look a little better second off you don’t have to SAND between coats if you time it correctly. I did my 23’ roll and tip and am very happy with the results, but I had no experience spraying, did not have the equipment to spray, did not have a place to spray and was very concerned with the health issues. It takes many extra days to roll and tip because you have to let it harden fully, then wet sand the entire boat first before each coat. I used Sterling paint works great but for spraying Awlgrip is on the top of the list now a days.

FellowShip

_______________________________________________

My motto: Just for the Grins

gatorbait · #6 06-13-2006, 10:32 PM

Thanks for all the info. After paying more attention to the resin container, I realized my fiberglass repairs where done with a poly resin and not epoxy...so I've decided to try spraying gel coat. I have a friend/client that's been flipping large boats for over a decade and he has given me some good tips on how to spray gel-coat. May be a little more work with sanding, but I've been told by many boat restorations pros, that gel is the way to go. I'll make sure to post pick of my progress, thanks again.