Category Archives: Awlgrip

Awlgrip Paint: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

In this guide to awlgrip paint, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions we get every day, (well Monday to Friday to be exact), about Awlgrip Marine paint. We hope this can help you make an informed decision and achieve the results you want.

1. What is Awlgrip paint?
Awlgrip is a high-performance marine coating renowned for its durability, gloss retention, and superior finish. It is specially formulated for use on boats and yachts, providing excellent protection against harsh marine environments.

2. How do I apply Awlgrip paint?
Like all painting projects, proper surface preparation is key to successful application. Start by thoroughly cleaning and sanding the surface, then apply the paint using spraying, rolling, or brushing. Depending on which Awlgrip paint you are using you will want to follow the Awlgrip Marine’s instructions regarding thinning ratios and application temperature for best results.

3. Is Awlgrip paint suitable for my boat?
Awlgrip paint is compatible with a wide range of boat materials, including fiberglass, aluminum, steel, and wood. Whether you have a sailboat, powerboat, or yacht, Awlgrip paint can be an excellent paint in providing the protection and aesthetic appeal your vessel deserves.

4. What are the advantages of using Awlgrip paint?
Awlgrip paint offers numerous benefits, including exceptional durability, UV resistance, chemical resistance, and long-lasting gloss retention. It provides superior protection against fading, chalking, and abrasion, ensuring your boat looks pristine for years to come.

5. How long does Awlgrip paint take to dry/cure?
Awlgrip typically dries to the touch within a few hours and fully cures within 24 to 48 hours, depending on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity. Proper curing is essential for optimal performance and durability.

6. Can Awlgrip paint be applied over existing coatings?
In most cases, it can be applied over properly prepared existing coatings. However, it’s essential to ensure good adhesion by thoroughly cleaning and sanding the surface and using compatible primers if necessary.

7. How do I maintain Awlgrip paint?
Regular maintenance is key to preserving the beauty and integrity of Awlgrip paint. Clean the surface regularly with mild soap and water, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, and apply a quality wax or polish to protect the finish from UV damage and oxidation.

8. Is Awlgrip paint toxic?
While Awlgrip paint contains solvents and other chemicals, proper ventilation and safety precautions can minimize exposure to harmful fumes. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment and work in a well-ventilated area.

9. Can Awlgrip paint be used below the waterline?
Awlgrip paint is not typically recommended for below-the-waterline applications, as it may not provide sufficient protection against osmosis and marine growth.

10. How can I achieve a specific finish with Awlgrip paint?
Whether you’re aiming for a high-gloss, matte, or metallic finish, Awlgrip paint offers versatility and customization options. Experiment with additives, sanding techniques, and topcoat options to achieve the perfect finish for your boat.

These are most of the frequently asked questions we receive. Now you’re equipped to embark on your Awlgrip painting project with confidence. As we field more questions we’ll update this post. Remember to prioritize proper surface preparation, follow manufacturer guidelines, and invest in quality materials for outstanding results that will have your vessel standing out in the water.

If you have any questions feel free to contact the Bottom Paint Store technical support team 800.555.2313.

Awlgrip Color Chart

Trying to decide the right Awlgrip color to paint your boat this season? Well, consider yourself lucky because Awlgrip has a color selection tool to help you choose the right color for your boat. Not only is Awlgrip one of the best quality boat paints on the market, but it also comes in a wide range of colors to suit a wide range of boats. So, whether you’re looking for a classic white or something more eye-catching, you’re sure to find the perfect shade in the Awlgrip color chart. And once you’ve decided on a color, you can place your Awlgrip paint order with Bottom Paint Store.

Go here to find the Awlgrip Color Chart tool and explore all the colors available for your vessel.

Care and Maintenance of Awlgrip HDT

Awlgrip HDT Base

DO:
1. Wash the surface regularly with Awlwash (73234) or Awlwash 2.0 (73235) and water.
2. Use only mild solvents to remove stubborn stains. Awlprep T0008, mineral spirits and xylene are acceptable for use on Awlgrip HDT.
Do not allow solvent to dry on the surface or puddle and soak into the surface. Wash these areas with Awlwash and water to remove solvent residue.
3. Always thoroughly rinse surfaces with fresh water after cleaning with Awlwash or solvents.
4. Use distilled white vinegar and hot water to remove stubborn salt stains. Washing with Awlwash after use of vinegar is recommended.
5. Use Awlcare (73240) by hand only to remove mild diesel soot stains.
Protecting the surface with Awlcare will help maintain the gloss of Awlgrip HDT. Awlcare is a hand applied, non-abrasive, synthetic polymer. It will remove mild stains, water spots and diesel soot while increasing resistance to attack from acid rain and other pollutants, when applied regularly.

DO NOT:
1. Do not use traditional waxes. Awlgrip has developed Awlcare Protective Polymer Sealer for those who want to enhance their finish and need the additional cleaning power of a hand applied, dry wash product.
2. Do not use abrasives, scratch pads or polishing compounds. Scratching the surface gives dirt a place to cling while wearing out the resin layer. Using abrasives of any kind will reduce the overall life of the finish and voids the Awlgrip Limited Warranty.
3. Do not allow contact between the Awlgrip HDT and teak cleaners.
4. Do not allow metal polishes to dry on the surface of Awlgrip HDT. Metal polishes may discolor and stain the painted surface.
5. Do not use strong solvents (eg. lacquer thinner, M.E.K., acetone) to clean Awlgrip HDT.
6. Do not allow wet equipment (e.g. seat cushions, coils of line, sails, sail covers, coolers) to trap and hold moisture against Awlgrip HDT.
7. Do not ‘shrink wrap’ or tightly bind Awlgrip HDT surfaces with plastic wrappings. The cover system, whether synthetic or natural fiber, should be ventilated to allow the coating system to ‘breathe’.

How to Apply Awlgrip HDT

Surface Preparation

The surface preparation advice provided, and equipment suggestions, can be used as a guide. Preparation techniques and results will vary according to individual conditions, equipment choice/condition and other factors. Testing on a non-critical area should be carried out prior to full-scale preparation.
Awlgrip HDT should be applied over Awlgrip 545 Epoxy Primer or previous Awlgrip Topcoat/Awlgrip HDT/Awlcraft 2000.
Over Awlgrip Topcoat/Awlgrip HDT/Awlcraft 2000 topcoat sand topcoat with P400 to remove the gloss and clean with surface cleaner T0170 (US) or T0340 (EU) using the two cloth wipe down method.
Avoid painting in direct sunlight. Do not apply paint materials to surfaces less than 5°F (3°C) above dew point, or to surfaces warmer than 105°F (41°C).
Ambient temperature should be minimum 55°F (13°C) and maximum 105°F (41°C). At standard conditions (77˚F (25˚C), 50% R.H.), avoid applying topcoats when the temperature could drop below the dew point within 6–8 hours after the application.

Mixing & Reduction of Awlgrip HDT
Mixing and reduction requirements will vary according to individual conditions, climate, equipment choice/condition and other factors. Mixing and application of a small sample before full-scale application is recommended.
Mix Ratio (by volume) – 1:1:0.25 (Base : Curing Solution : Activator)  (eg 1 Gallon:1 Gallon:1 Quart or 100:100:25ml).
Induction time = 15 minutes.
Mix to a smooth, homogenous mixture
Awlgrip HDT is designed for spray application only. Correct choice of activator must be made according to the application conditions and project size.
General guideline:
15-23ºC OA0020
20-30 ºC OA0015 (US only)
>30ºC OA0010

1. Mix all 3 components of Awlgrip HDT thoroughly, especially the base. Mix by volume to a homogeneous mixture:

For example, mix 100ml OC series, 100ml OC0010 & 25ml OA0020 (or 32 ounces OC series, 32 ounces OC0010 & 8 ounces OA0020). Keeo in mind that adding more activator into the mix may compromise pot life and could affect the flow of the product.
2. Once the product is mixed, ensure at least 15 minutes induction time. If the induction time is not followed, the product may down gloss / haze once cured.
3. Initial spray viscosity should be 14-20 seconds (DIN4 or equivalent) and varies with the application conditions. The best choice of activator will depend on application conditions and boat size.

As a general guideline (see below):

Application & Conditions for Awlgrip HDT

4. Application equipment: Gravity or pressure feed, air atomized spray or electrostatic spray
5. The primed surface must be clean and dry.
6. Apply 2 coats of Awlgrip HDT, this should be sufficient to achieve the correct DFT of 50-75 microns (3mils) DFT. However, some colours may require additional coats to achieve full hide / opacity and colour development. Application of the first coat should be approximately 75 microns (3 mils) WFT and application of the second coat should be approximately 100 microns (3.9mils) WFT. The surface may not become completely ‘tack free’ in between coats, however it is recommended to wait at least 30 minutes between coats (this time will vary depending on activator selection, temperature and humidity and air flow)
7. Awlgrip HDT has a relatively short pot life compared to Awlgrip topcoat, so for optimal performance prepare a fresh mix for each application. Don’t mix the new & old paint together as this may compromise the final finish.
8. The Awlgrip HDT activators can be blended together to suit not only environmental conditions but also project complexity. For a good starting point use a 50/50 OA0010/ OA0020 blend (or OA0015) then adjust to your preference.
8.1 To achieve a longer pot life or longer wet edge, the blend of A0010 and A0020 should be adjusted to include more A0010.
8.2 Similarly, for small areas or where drying time needs to be reduced, the proportion of A0020 should be increased.

9. Even if temperature has a greater effect on the cure and the potlife, humidity to some extend can also have an influence on the flow and performance of the product.
9.1 In cooler humid conditions it is suggested to either use only OA0020 or a blend of OA0020 and OA0010 with a higher proportion of OA0020 to OA0010. Example 75/25 OA0020/OA0010.
9.2 In hot humid conditions it may be necessary to increase the proportion of OA0010 and decrease the proportion of OA0020. Example, 75/25 OA0010/OA0020. Even in hot humid conditions, it is not recommended to solely use OA0010 due to the risk of moisture causing down glossing.
10. When first using Awlgrip HDT, it can apply differently to other topcoats currently in use. To help with this, up to 12.5% of T0002, T0001, T0003, T0005 or T0031 can be added to help with wetting out of the surface. Using extra reducer may require an additional coat to be applied and will mean the product is no longer ‘VOC compliant’. Once applicators are used to the behaviour of HDT on application, a similar quality of finish can be achieved without the addition of extra reducer. It is recommended to mix separately the Activator (OA0010, OA0015, OA0020) in equal amounts to the chosen reducer. This mix can then be added to the 1:1 base & curing solution at 25%. This mix will contain 12.5% Activator (as recommended) with 12.5% reducer; from a painters perspective this gives a 1:1:0.5 overall mix ratio.
11. Thanks to the activator/ reducer choice based on temperature, Awlgrip HDT has been proven to be a very adaptable product. The chart on page 1 is to be used as a guide only. In low temperatures, the standard paint mix with fast activator works very well. On larger surfaces, the addition of standard solvents helps to carry a wet edge if the applicator is struggling. For hot weather, OA0015 activator works well. If the applicator is struggling with wet edge, the addition of solvents helps. It is recommended when blending the activators to use the two extremes OA0010 Slow) and OA0020 (Fast) this allows more control. In low temperatures, we recommend T0001 or T0002; in medium temperatures T0003 and in hot temperatures T0005. In hot to very hot weather T0031. Start with the addition of 5% solvent. It is recommended for larger applications that a pre-shoot on panels is to be carried out, “to enable applicator to choose” the best optimization for the size project and conditions.
DRYING TIMES & REPAIRS for Awlgrip HDT
12. If environmental conditions require that the product dries faster (cooler more humid conditions), add slightly more OA0020 into the mix. Keep in mind this may compromise pot life and could affect the flow of the product. Also, in that case the product is no longer VOC compliant.
13. Awlgrip HDT has a new repair process compared to the standard Awlgrip repair. See the Repair & maintenance brochure for further info.
14. Awlgrip HDT can be harder to polish therefore we only recommend this for repairs and to remove localised defects. If working in an environment where you know you’re going to polish the whole boat, Awlcraft 2000 is the best choice.
15. Polishing Awlgrip HDT : Always test a small, low visibility area (or a sample panel) first before proceeding. Certain color shades may not be suitable for polishing. The tone of the color may be affected during sanding or aggressive polishing. Multi-stage sanding & polishing systems can also be used. You should contact your local supplier for further information.

Awlgrip HDT Application continued

Application equipment and parameters are given as a guide. Actual equipment choices will vary according to application conditions, equipment condition and other factors. Testing on a non-critical area should be carried out prior to full-scale application. Contact your local technical service representative for further advice if necessary.
To ensure optimal adhesion between coats Awlgrip HDT should be applied according to the overcoating intervals as described in the Recoatability & Drying Times section.
Apply a full coat of Awlgrip HDT to the surface. Allow tack coat to “flash off” 30-45 minutes depending on application conditions. Apply a slightly heavy second coat. A third coat can be applied to reach DFT if needed.                         

Application MethodsFluid TipFluid PressureAir Pressure
Conventional Spray Gravity,
Electrostatic
1.20 – 1.40 mm
47 – 55 thou
 –180 – 280 cc/min3 – 5 bar
29 – 44 psi

Recoatability & Drying Times
The data given for recoatability is not exhaustive. Actual recoatability can vary according to individual conditions, climate and surroundings. If unsure, consult your local technical service representative before proceeding.

Drying15ºC (59ºF)25ºC (77ºF)35ºC (95ºF)
Hard Dry46 hours22 hours6.5 hours
Touch Dry6 hours4.5 hours1.5 hours
Pot Life3 hours2/5 hours2 hours

Values in the table are for a 50:50 mix by volume of Awlgrip HDT Fast Activator and Awlgrip HDT Slow Activator. If using only Awlgrip HDT Fast Activator or Awlgrip HDT Slow Activator at a different ratio drying time and pot life will vary.

Awlgrip HDT has a shorter pot life than a standard polyurethane topcoat.

Overcoated by15ºC (59ºF)15ºC (59ºF)25ºC (77ºF)25ºC (77ºF)35ºC (95ºF)35ºC (95ºF)
MinMaxMinMaxMinMax
Awlgrip HDT2 hours24 hours2 hours24 hours2 hours24 hours

Recoatability: Spray application consists of 2 to 3 coats applied over 2-4 hours. Exact time will vary with temperature, project size and film thickness applied. Awlgrip HDT cannot be overcoated with itself after 24h. Please contact your local representative for more information
Some Important Points
Awlgrip HDT is compatible with Awlgrip repair product. Please refer to the Awlgrip website or to the Awlgrip Application Guide for further information.

Awlgrip Product Data Sheet

TIPS & TRICKS FOR AWLGRIP HDT APPLICATION

Testing for Compatibility of Topside Paint with Awlgrip Topcoat

SURFACE PREPARATION
COATINGS COMPATIBILITY & ADHESION
TESTS (ABOVE WATER ONLY)


Test One: Cross Hatch Adhesion (See diagram above)

  1. Select test area(s) on the surface to be painted. Thoroughly clean,
    de-wax and degrease this area.
  2. With a sharp blade, cut 6 lines vertically and 6 lines horizontally to give
    a box of 25 squares. The cuts must be deep enough to reach the
    substrate. On thick fairing systems this test may have to be done to
    several different layers.
  3. Apply 3M #610, #895 or #898 3M Scotch Brand Filament Tape (or
    similar type of packaging tape) over the scribed area, making certain
    that the tape is tightly adhered to the test surface. Do not use
    masking tape.
  4. With an abrupt yank, pull the tape back parallel to the surface. Pulling
    the tape straight up will give no test at all.
  5. Examine the test surface. If any square of old coating in the scribed
    area is removed, the adhesion has failed. All the failed layers must
    be removed.

Test Two: Solvent Resistance

  1. Saturate a cotton ball or small wad of cloth with one of the
    Awlgrip Topcoat or Primer Reducers (T0003 or T0006).
  2. Tape the reducer-saturated ball to the scribed area surface for
    30 minutes.
  3. After 30 minutes remove the cotton ball. If the reducer has dissolved
    or severely softened the old coating, the coating is incompatible and
    must be removed. If the scribed area has remained intact, allow a
    15 minute recovery period and repeat all steps in Test One again.
  4. If any square areas are removed, all the failed layers must be
    removed.

Test Three: Coating Compatibility
If the old coating is still intact after Tests One and Two, perform
Test Three.

  1. Lightly sand a small test area with 220 grit paper. Clean the sanded
    areas thoroughly with Awlgrip Wipe-Down Solvent (NA/AP:
    Awlprep T0008 ; EU: Surface Cleaner T0340) and using clean cloths.
  2. Paint a small patch of the surface with Awlgrip Topcoat. Do not use
    masking tape on the edges of the test application as the paint edges
    created by the tape will ‘print through’ and be visible in the finish.

How to Apply Awlgrip Topcoat to an Aluminum Hull

Awlgip Marine PaintsFirst Identify the paint that is there. Is it compatible?

If yes – Sand, Primer, Paint

If no – the previous coating needs to be taken down. Sand with 80 grit paper until the coating is gone. Sand blasting is not recommended because it takes away the aluminum itself.

How do you know if previous paint is compatible with Awlgrip? Perform this test:

  1. Need a rag and some Lacquer thinner
  2. Sand the surface with 80 grit sand paper
  3. Apply lacquer thinner to the rag and hold it on the sanded area.
  4. Put a piece of plastic on to to hold the rag so the Lacquer thinner doesn’t evaporate.
  5. Hold rag for 35-45 min.
  6. Remove rag slowly. Is surface bubbling or lifting? If no, scrape surface with the blade of a knife. If the paint comes off with the blade or the paint feels rubbery you have identified an acrylic based paint. Awlgrip may be applied on top of it. If the surface was bubbling or lifting, the paint is not compatible and must be removed.

D6600 CF WashII. Apply Awl-Wash Primer CF (Mix Part A and Part B) within 4 hours of cleaning the surface. This provides excellent adhesion to the aluminum surface. Awl-Wash CF can be overcoated with primers after 1 hour of application. Maximum recoat time without sanding is 6 months.

III. Apply a Primer to the Awl-Wash Primer CF. There are 2 main choices.

  1. 545 Epoxy Primer – Thin, building primer. Usually applied when there is no need to fill scrapes or gouges.
  2. Awlquick – a medium build, primer/surfacer. Applied to a surface that needs to be filled where there are scrapes or gouges. Awlquick Base + Converter.

IV.  Apply a topcoat.

  1. Awlgrip – may be brush rolled or sprayed – usually lasts 7-10 years.
  2. Awlcraft – must be sprayed only – usually lasts 4-6 years.

For more information on Awlgrip vs. Awlcraft, click this link.

Awlgrip Color Chart

Awlgrip vs. Awlcraft 2000 – What are the differences?

Awlgrip and Awlcraft 2000 – Which is better?

Here’s an overview of the key differences between Awlgrip and Awlcraft 2000, (each one has its own advantages and disadvantages), so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.

KEY TAKEAWAY

1. Awlgrip provides superior gloss, color consistency, and durability due to its two-component urethane formula.
2. Awlcraft 2000 offers a single component water-based formula that’s easier to apply and can be buffed and polished for improved shine retention.
3. Awlgrip is more expensive than Awlcraft 2000 but provides better protection against UV rays, chemicals and abrasion over time.
4. Awlcraft 2000 requires less prep work compared to traditional, solvent based topcoats like Awlgrip, making it easier and faster to apply with minimal odor or cleanup needed afterwards.
5. Both products provide excellent resistance to fading, chalking, weathering, and corrosion when applied properly in the right environment.

Awlgip Marine PaintsAwlgrip is based on a polyester urethane resin and Awlcraft 2000 is based on an Acrylic Urethane resin. At the surface they seem very similar, but at the molecular level they are vastly different. Polyester molecules are much smaller than acrylic molecules. This means that at any given volume, there can be more polyester molecules than acrylic and this allows polyester films to be more dense and tough. Awlgrip has more abrasion and chemical resistance than Awlcraft and is usually more rigid.

Awlcraft, on the other hand is not without its own advantages.  It is generally easier to apply. The larger molecules and less dense film of the acrylic allows for faster drying and therefore less dust entrapment in the finish.  Both urethane topcoats will resist staining and provide a long lasting gloss. It is best to consider cure times, reparability, application methods, chemical resistance, as well as abrasion resistance when deciding which topcoat to choose.

Which is more suited for buffing?

Both Awlgrip and Awlcraft 2000 urethane topcoats have a protective resin layer. This layer is the first line of defense against UV light and abrasive damage. Underneath this resin is a layer of rich pigment particles that give the paint its bright shine and color. Awlgrip has a thicker protective resin layer and when the polyester is scratched, it is necessary to cut deeply into the resin to repair it. Buffing the surface leaves the pigment exposed and compromises the performance of the paint in the long run.

Awlcraft has a softer finish, due to the less dense molecular structure, and thus has a lower melting point. When this acrylic urethane is buffed, the resin is able to flow together and does not require cutting the surface as deeply. So, Awlcraft 2000 is more suited for buffing and Awlgrip will require a Fairing Compound.

Awlgrip vs Awlcraft 2000 – Fast Facts

Awlgrip Polyester Urethane Topcoat

  • Can be applied by spray or brush/roll.
  • Excellent color retention and chemical resistance.
  • More dense molecular structure.

Awlcraft 2000 – Acrylic Urethane Topcoat

  • For spray application only.
  • Superior flow-out and high gloss.
  • Fast drying to reduce dust entrapment.
  • More user friendly in application. Easy to repair.

Awlgrip Color Chart

 

Restoring and Maintaining Awlgrip and Awlcraft 2000 Paint

Over time contaminants can build up and cause the finish of your Awlgrip/Awlcraft 2000 paint to appear dull.  You can restore the gloss of a freshly painted boat and prevent the premature aging caused by contaminates by following these steps:

  • Wash your Awlgrip or Awlcraft surface with Awlwash mixed with water (1-2 capfuls in a bucket of water for washing) using soft, non-abrasive cloths and rinse well. Doing so on a regular basis (once per month) will help control dulling buildup.
  • Solvent cleaning of Awlgrip only: Awlprep and Awlprep Plus can be used to aid in removal of stains or markers and to soften or remove heavy build ups of grease and grime, or spray paint on the topcoat and toluene, lacquer thinner, M.E.K., acetone can be used as well.
  • Solvent cleaning of Awlcraft 2000 and Awlgrip HDT only: Awlprep or mild solvents (mineral spirits, xylene, kerosene and diesel fuel) should be used.

Awlgrip AWLwashIn both cases apply solvents with soft cloths and do not allow the chemicals to dry on surface, puddle or soak. Wash with Awlwash to prevent remaining solvent to attack paint. As always when working with solvents, test in an inconspicuous area first.

 Distilled white vinegar and hot water will aid in removing salt stains, always follow with Awlwash.

Protecting the Surface

awlgrip awlcareAwlcare can be applied to the surface like a wax to remove pollutants (such as diesel soot), protects the finish and leaves a glossy shine. Awlcare should be applied regularly to protect against pollutants. It can be removed with Awl-Prep Plus (Awlgrip only) when it’s time to repaint. What to avoid with Awlgrip and Awlcraft 2000:

  • Abrasives
  • Polishing compounds
  • Traditional waxes as they tend to break down rapidly, yellow and attract dirt
  • Acid based products such as teak or metal cleaners and strong solvents on Awlcraft 2000, Awlbrite Clear or Awlspar Varnish.
  • Trapped moisture from supplies as paint can blister or delaminate

AVOID:

  • Avoid Traditional Waxes
  • Awlgrip topcoat only: Regular applications of Awlcare will help temporarily seal and restore shine to painted surfaces that have become porous due to age or mistreatment, helping to maintain a satisfactory appearance until there is time to repaint.
  • Awlcraft 2000 and Awlgrip HDT: Awlcare Protective Polymer Sealer will help maintain the gloss on these finishes with regular applications, especially those which have been buffed or polished. Remember, Awlcare is only applied and buffed by hand. Never apply or buff Awlcare with a machine.
  • Avoid abrasive and polishing compounds
  • Avoid strong solvents (eg. lacquer thinner, M.E.K., acetone) to clean Awlcraft 2000, Awlgrip HDT, Awlbrite Clear or Awlspar varnish.

Topside Boat Paint Options: What are your choices?

There are many different topside boat paints and qualities, generally, the more you spend the better the results. See the below the waterline paints for water exposure.

Blue Water Mega Gloss is affordable and easy to apply and only recommended for above the waterline only. This topside paint works best in very thin coats; see the prep recommendations found on the product page on the “how to use” tab and if the Blue Water Mega Gloss Primer is needed.

Popular color options can also be found with the Interlux Brightside, commonly used for topside gloss surfaces with moderate water exposure. Also, Interdeck white paint with added non-skid is perfect for a white slip-resistant deck.

Duralux offers some camo paints as well as the high gloss marine enamel option. For use on aluminum and wood, a primer is recommended for the best adhesion.

In flat paint/primer in one option, you’ll find the Aluma Hawk. This is extremely popular for hunting and fishing boats and easy of use in white, blue, sand, aluminum gray, Jon boat green, and black.

The best available boat paint for the topside with the best finish is Awlgrip, most expensive but best results and loved by customers. Some of the Awlgrip paints can be brushed or rolled but others must be sprayed.  Awlgrip marine paint also requires a little more “do it yourself savvy” to apply these paints, and require the correct activators and reducers when applying. The manufacturer of Awlgrip recommends it for use only above the waterline and by professionals.

Your topside boat paint choice depends on your budget, the durability needed and the amount of time you want to spend on your boat paint application.

Most of the paints above do exceptionally well with brush and roller application. Be sure to choose a solvent-resistant, high density closed cell size foam roller. This minimizes the formation of bubbles in the surface that can happen with mohair or large cell foam rollers. These paints typically do better with thinner application and more coats may be needed. Using this method is commonly referred to as the roll and tip method and works well when two painters work side by side.

When applying by brush use the largest brush that is practical for your job. Long flexible bristles are best for gloss paints and holding the brush at a 45-degree angle minimizes brush marks with an even spread. A disposable foam brush is favored for small touch-up jobs.

Paint application tips:

  • Clean or change brushes every 20 minutes
  • Stir the can during work
  • Paint on warm, dry mornings as cold weather retards drying and dampness will spoil the gloss.
  • Use a worn brush for the final coat for fewer brush marks.

Awlgrip Paint, the Best Topside Boat Paint

Awlgip Marine PaintsAwlgrip Topcoat, also referred to as awlgrip paint,  is a polyester based high gloss polyurethane topcoat giving long lasting gloss and color retention. It is considered the among the best Topside Paints in the marine industry. AwlGrip Topcoat  may be applied by brush/roller or spray. For application above the waterline only. See Awlgrip Application Guidelines

Awlcraft 2000 is an Awlgrip paint that is a 3 component, premium polyurethane finish that must be applied by spray only, and delivers a high gloss finish in a wide range of colors with enhanced color and gloss retention.  Awlcraft 2000 comes in a number of unique color options.  You will need to choose the appropriate Converter and a Reducer. 

awlgrip 545 primerThe most common practice for the do it yourselfer is priming the boat with Awlgrip 545 epoxy primer. This is a 2 part primer, so you will need the base (either white or grey) and the converter. Awlgrip also recommends a reducer. The links to the converter and reducer can be found on the base primer product page.

Mixing and Reduction:
This is a two part system. You must order the base primer in either gray or white along with the D3001 Converter in the appropriate size. The mix ratio is 1:1 so if you purchase 1 quart of primer you also need 1 quart of converter for a total of 2 quarts. Additionally you need to purchase the appropriate reducer (spray or brush) for spraying reduce up to 25% with T0006 and for brushing reduce up to 10% with T0031.

Theoretical Coverage: 497 Sq feet/gallon at one mil dry (25 microns) 165-248 Sq. Feet at recommended dry film thickness. Calculated based on a theoretical transfer efficiency of 100%.

Then you will choose your base color of Awlgrip Topside paint, the converter and reducer. The reducer and converter change depending if you are spraying or brush/rolling.

Mixing and Reduction

Spray: Mix by volume one part AWLGRIP Topcoat Base Component (Color) with one part AWL-CAT #2 G3010 spray converter to a a smooth homogenous mixture. Reduce up to 25% with the spray reducer(s) appropriate for conditions. Overall mixture is 1:1:1/2 volume. Example: 8oz Base, 8oz G3010, 4oz Reducer. 25% reduction is a standard mix. Clear coats. metallic colors, and painting in high temperature conditions may require additional reduction. 40% reduction is the maximum recommendation.

Brush/Roller: Mix by volume two parts AWLGRIP Topcoat Base Component with one part AWL-CAT #3/H3002 Brushing Converter until one smooth, homogenous mixture is obtained. Reduce 25% to 33% with T0031. Overall mix is 2:1:3/4-1 by volume. Example: 8 oz. color base component, 4 oz. H3002, 3-4 oz. T0031. 

Theoretical Coverage:
Brush/Roller Application: 700-725 Sq. Feet at 1 mil (25 Microns) dry: 285 Sq. Feet at recommended dry film thickness.
Recommended Wet Film Thickness: 4.5-6 mils (112.5-150 Microns), Total of 2 Coats.
Recommended Dry Film Thickness: 2-3 mils (50-75 Microns), Total of 2 Coats.

Spray Application: 530 Sq. Feet at 1 mil (25 microns) dry film thickness; 210 SQ. Feet at recommended dry film thickness.
Recommended Wet Film Thickness: 6-9 mils (150-225 Microns), Total of 2-3 Coats.
Recommended Dry Film Thickness: 2-3 mils (50-75 Microns), Total of 2-3 Coats.

You can view the links provided above to see more information about the products, mix ratios, surface prep and auxiliary products.

Awlgrip Color Chart