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how to choose bottom paint

How to choose the right bottom paint for my boat

Are you ready to dive deep into the world of boat bottom paint? Well then, you’ve come to the right place! We’re going to cover everything you need to know about choosing the right bottom paint for your boat.

If you’ve owned a boat for any length of time you know, bottom paint is an essential component of boat maintenance, particularly for boats that are kept in the water for extended periods. It’s crucial because the bottom of a boat is exposed to harsh elements such as saltwater, algae, and other marine organisms, which can cause damage and reduce the performance of the vessel. Applying a high-quality bottom paint to the hull of the boat can help protect it from these elements, preventing the growth of algae and other marine organisms, reducing drag, and improving the boat’s overall performance. Bottom paint also helps prevent corrosion and other types of damage to the hull, which can ultimately extend the lifespan of the boat. By investing in quality bottom paint and regularly maintaining it, boat owners can ensure that their vessel remains in good condition and performs at its best for years to come.

Bottom Paint

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Choose a bottom paint that is suitable for the type of water and conditions in which your boat will be used.
  • Consider the type of hull material your boat has, as some paints may not be compatible with certain materials.
  • Choose the appropriate type of bottom paint based on the level of fouling in your area and the type of marine life that is present.
  • Select a paint that is compatible with any existing coatings on your boat’s hull.
  • Consider the application method and how easy it will be to apply and maintain the paint.
  • Make sure to properly prepare the surface before applying the bottom paint to ensure optimal performance.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, drying times, and maintenance to maximize the lifespan of the bottom paint.

The Different types of bottom paints available

There are several different types of bottom paints available for boats, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Here are some of the most common types of bottom paint:

Hard bottom paint – This type of paint is designed for boats that are used frequently and require a durable, long-lasting paint that can withstand abrasion and harsh marine environments.

Soft bottom paint – Soft bottom paints are ideal for boats that are stored on land for extended periods and are less frequently used. These paints offer excellent antifouling protection, but they may require more frequent reapplication.

Ablative bottom paint – This type of paint is formulated to wear away slowly over time, gradually releasing biocides to prevent fouling. Ablative bottom paints are ideal for boats that are used frequently and require continuous antifouling protection.

Copper-free bottom paint – Copper-free bottom paints are becoming increasingly popular due to concerns about the environmental impact of copper on marine ecosystems. These paints use alternative antifouling agents, such as zinc or biocides, to prevent fouling.

Hybrid bottom paint – Hybrid bottom paints combine the benefits of multiple types of bottom paints, offering excellent antifouling protection, durability, and environmental safety. These paints are a great option for boaters who want the best of all worlds.

When choosing a bottom paint, it’s essential to consider factors such as the boat’s usage patterns, the type of water the boat will be used in, and environmental regulations governing antifouling agents. It’s also important to choose a paint that is compatible with your boat’s existing paint and surface preparation.

What are the factors to consider when choosing bottom paint?

There are several factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:

Boat usage: The type of bottom paint you choose will depend largely on how often you use your boat and the type of water you’ll be operating in. Boats that are used frequently and kept in the water year-round may require a different type of paint than those that are only used seasonally or kept on land.

Hull material: The type of material your boat’s hull is made from can affect the type of bottom paint you can use. For example, some types of bottom paint may not be compatible with certain hull materials, such as aluminum or fiberglass.

Water conditions: The type of water you’ll be operating in can also affect the type of bottom paint you need. For example, boats operating in saltwater may require a different type of paint than those operating in freshwater.

Antifouling properties: Antifouling properties are an essential consideration when choosing bottom paint. The paint you choose should be effective at preventing fouling and protecting your boat from marine organisms.

Environmental regulations: Many areas have regulations governing the use of certain types of bottom paints due to their potential impact on the environment. Before choosing a bottom paint, be sure to check local regulations to ensure you’re using a product that’s allowed in your area.

Compatibility with existing paint: It’s important to choose a bottom paint that’s compatible with your boat’s existing paint and surface preparation. Using an incompatible paint can lead to adhesion issues and other problems.

Personal preference and budget are also important factors to consider when choosing bottom paint for your boat.

When it comes to personal preference, you may have a particular type or brand of bottom paint that you prefer based on past experience or recommendations from other boaters. It’s important to choose a product that you feel comfortable using and that meets your specific needs.

Budget is also an important consideration. Bottom paint can range in price depending on the type, brand, and quality of the product. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper option to save money, it’s important to remember that high-quality bottom paint is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your boat. In the end, choosing a quality product may actually save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent repainting and repairs.

It’s important to weigh these factors against the other considerations mentioned earlier, such as boat usage, water conditions, and environmental regulations. By finding a balance between these various factors, you can choose a bottom paint that meets your needs while staying within your budget.

In addition to these basic types, there are also specialized bottom paints that are designed for specific conditions, such as warm water or extreme fouling. It’s important to choose a bottom paint that’s appropriate for your specific needs and usage patterns, and to consider factors such as your boat’s hull material, water conditions, and local environmental regulations when making your selection.

What is the paint application process?

The application process for bottom paint can vary depending on the type of paint you choose, but generally, it will involve surface preparation, choosing the right application method, and applying the paint. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

Surface Preparation:

Proper surface preparation is critical to ensuring that the bottom paint adheres well and provides effective protection against fouling. Before applying the paint, you’ll need to clean and prepare the hull surface by removing any old paint, dirt, oil, or other contaminants. This may involve sanding, scraping, or pressure washing, depending on the condition of the surface.

Choosing the Right Application Method:

There are several different methods for applying bottom paint, including brush, roller, and spray. The method you choose will depend on the type of paint you’re using, the size and shape of your boat, and your personal preference. Some types of bottom paint may require a specific application method, so be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

Applying the Bottom Paint:

Once the surface is clean and prepared, and you’ve chosen the right application method, it’s time to apply the paint. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and apply the paint evenly and smoothly. Depending on the type of paint you’re using, you may need to apply multiple coats to achieve the desired level of protection. Be sure to allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying the next.

After the paint has been applied, be sure to clean up any tools or equipment and dispose of any leftover paint or solvents in accordance with local regulations. Proper disposal is important to protect the environment and prevent pollution.

The application process involves proper surface preparation, choosing the right application method, and applying the paint according to the manufacturer’s instructions. By following these steps carefully, you can ensure that your boat’s bottom paint provides effective protection against fouling and extends the life of your vessel.

How do I know how many coats of bottom of bottom paint to apply?

The number of coats of bottom paint you should apply can depend on the type of paint you’re using, as well as the manufacturer’s recommendations. Generally, bottom paint manufacturers will specify the recommended number of coats on the product label or in the application instructions.

In most cases, two coats of bottom paint are recommended for optimal performance and protection. However, some paints may require more or fewer coats, so it’s important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for guidance.

Factors such as the condition of your boat’s hull and the type of water and marine life in your area can also impact the number of coats of bottom paint needed for adequate protection.

It’s important to note that applying too many coats of bottom paint can actually be counterproductive and lead to issues such as cracking or peeling. Therefore, it’s best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and apply the recommended number of coats for the specific paint you’re using.

Maintenance and Repainting

Maintaining your boat’s bottom paint is essential to ensure that it continues to provide effective antifouling protection and prolong the life of your vessel. Here are some tips for maintaining your boat’s bottom paint:

Regular Cleaning: Regularly cleaning your boat’s hull will help to remove any dirt, grime, or debris that can build up on the surface and reduce the effectiveness of the bottom paint. Use a soft-bristled brush or a pressure washer to gently clean the hull, being careful not to damage the paint.

Inspect the Paint: Regularly inspecting your boat’s bottom paint can help you to catch any problems early on and prevent them from becoming more serious. Look for signs of chalking, cracking, or peeling, which can indicate that the paint is no longer providing effective protection.

Address Any Problems Promptly: If you notice any problems with your boat’s bottom paint, such as chalking, cracking, or peeling, it’s important to address them promptly. This may involve sanding, scraping, or repainting the affected areas to restore the protective coating.

Repaint as Needed: Over time, all bottom paints will wear away and lose their effectiveness. Depending on the type of paint you’re using and the conditions in which you use your boat, you may need to repaint every 1-3 years to maintain effective antifouling protection.

When it comes time to repaint your boat’s bottom, the process will be similar to the initial application process. You’ll need to prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding the hull, choose the appropriate type of paint, and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It’s important to choose a high-quality paint and to follow proper application techniques to ensure that your boat’s bottom paint continues to provide effective protection for years to come.

How do I know when it’s time to repaint bottom paint?

Knowing when to repaint your boat’s bottom paint can depend on several factors, such as the type of paint used, the conditions in which your boat is used, and the level of fouling on the hull. Here are some general signs that it may be time to repaint your boat’s bottom paint:

It has been several years since the last application: Most bottom paints have a lifespan of around 2-3 years, after which they will begin to lose their effectiveness.

The paint is visibly worn or peeling: If you can see patches of bare hull or the paint is peeling, it’s a good indication that it’s time to repaint.

Increased fouling: If you notice an increase in fouling, such as barnacles or algae, on your boat’s hull, it may be time to repaint with a more effective antifouling paint.

Reduced performance: If your boat is slower than usual or handling differently, it may be due to a buildup of fouling or worn-out bottom paint.

Inspection reveals wear or damage: During routine maintenance, if you notice any wear, scratches, or damage to the bottom paint, it may be time to repaint to prevent further damage.

It’s important to note that regular maintenance and cleaning can extend the lifespan of your bottom paint and help you catch any issues before they become too severe. If you are unsure whether it’s time to repaint your boat’s bottom paint, consult with a marine professional or bottom paint manufacturer for guidance.

Where can I buy bottom paint?

You can buy bottom paint at Bottom Paint Store, an online store that specializes in selling premium marine paints, gel coat, varnish, and supplies.

When shopping at a bottom paint store, you will find a wide variety of bottom paint, including antifouling paints, ablative paints, hard paints, and more. These paints come in different colors, sizes, and formulations to meet the needs of different types of vessels and boating conditions.

Alright, we’ve covered a lot. So, to wrap things up, choosing the right bottom paint for your boat is crucial to keeping your vessel in tip-top shape. You want to make sure you pick a paint that’s suited for your boat’s specific needs and the conditions it’ll be facing. You also want to make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and maintenance, so you get the most bang for your buck. Remember, keeping your boat’s bottom clean and protected not only helps it perform better on the water, it also helps you avoid costly repairs down the line!

Does Bottom Paint Go Bad?

Yes, bottom paint can go bad. Bottom paint can last several years in the can provided it was unopened or sealed properly. However, high copper content bottom paint that has been in your garage for a year or more will require a mechanical mixer because of the settling of heavy copper in the bottom paint.

The actual lifespan of bottom paint depends on the type of bottom paint used and the environment in which it is used. Hard bottom paints do not release or wear off of the boat. Therefore, after about 12-18 months maximum the copper in the bottom paint will oxidize and become ineffective. In addition, if you leave the boat out of the water for 30 days at anytime during the life cycle, the hard bottom paint will oxidize and will become ineffective. For optimal protection, hard bottom paint should be applied once a year. Since hard bottom paint builds up on the surface of the boat bottom after each application, you can typically need to apply one heavy coat each season.

Bottom Paint

Just like hard bottom paint, ablative bottom paint will also oxidize, However, since it is ablative (wears away) there is always fresh copper or biocides being exposed to keep your bottom paint working. Therefore, ablative bottom paints can last for multiple years. This depends on environmental factors such as, how much you use the boat, wear you dock the boat (fast currents and tides will wear off the ablative bottom paint faster), and how much ablative bottom paint was actually applied.

Generally speaking, when it comes to ablative bottom paint, the number of coats (or thickness of each coat), the longer the bottom paint will last. When using ablative bottom paint you should always apply multiple coats ( at least two heavy coats. A good idea is to used a different color for the 1st coat. When you start to see that color show through – its time to repaint your boat. If you leave your boat out of the water for more than 30 days, ablative bottom paint will still work. It is a good idea to lightly pressure wash your boat, or lightly rub the bottom with a wet old t-shirt to remove the oxidation before relaunching the boat.

What Is The Best Bottom Paint For Trailered Boats?

If you keep your boat in salt water, then you know that a good coat of bottom paint is key to keeping your boat looking great and performing well. Not only does it protect your boat from the elements, but it also keeps it looking good. But what is the best bottom paint for trailered boats? There are a lot of different types and brands on the market so it can be tough to decide. In this article post, we’ll discuss the different types of bottom paint and help provide an overview so you can decide which one is right for you.

What paint should I use for the bottom of my boat?

For those who are new to the world of boat ownership, the task of bottom painting can seem a bit daunting. After all, there are a lot of different products on the market, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for your boat. Bottom paint is designed to protect the bottom of your boat from barnacles, algae, and other marine growth. It also helps to prevent corrosion and make it easier to clean the bottom of your boat. When choosing a bottom paint, it is important to consider the type of boat you have, the water conditions in your area, and the level of maintenance you are willing to perform. With so many different products on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. However, by taking the time to do your research, you can find the perfect bottom paint for your boat.


There are three main types of bottom paint: ablative, hard, and semi-hard. Ablative bottom paint is the most popular type; it wears away over time, which allows it to continually renew itself. This makes ablative bottom paint ideal for boats that are used frequently. Hard bottom paint, on the other hand, is designed to last longer; it doesn’t wear away as quickly as ablative bottom paint, but it also doesn’t provide as much protection. Semi-hard bottom paint is a blend of the two; it’s more durable than ablative bottom paint but not as long-lasting as hard bottom paint.


As for brands, there are dozens of different companies that make bottom paint. New Nautical Coatings, Interlux, Pettit, and Aquaguard are just a few of the most popular brands. Interlux offers a wide variety of ablative and semi-hard bottom paints, including their well-known Micron CSC formula. Pettit makes both ablative and hard bottom paints, including their Trinidad Pro, featuring a high copper load and slime resistance to provide unprecedented resistance to all fouling.


New Nautical Coatings, Sea Hawk Paints, includes a wide range of economical and premium ablative and hard bottom paints for various conditions and price points.

If you’re looking for the best bottom paint for aluminum boats, Colorkote is a good way to go. This high-quality paint provides a durable barrier against corrosion, while also being able to withstand the rigors of saltwater conditions. Colorkote is also easy to apply and dries quickly, so you can get back on the water in no time. So, if you’re looking for a bottom paint for your aluminum boat, Colorkote is a great choice.

Colorkote

For those who want an eco-friendly option, Smart Solutions Metal Free Bottom Paint is the best eco-friendly bottom paint on the market. It is made with a specially formulated resin that is designed to bind to metal surfaces, making it an ideal choice for boats and other watercraft. The binding agent in the resin helps to prevent metals from leaching into the water, making Smart Solution Metal Free Bottom Paint an environmentally friendly option. In addition, the binding agent also helps to prevent barnacles and other marine growth from attaching to the hull, making it easier to clean and extending the life of the boat. Smart Solution Metal Free Bottom Paint is available in a variety of colors, making it easy to find a color that matches your boat. It is also exceptionally durable, lasting up to three years with proper maintenance. Smart Solution Metal Free Bottom Paint is the best choice for those looking for an eco-friendly bottom paint that is also effective and long-lasting.

Sea Hawk Smart Solution Outdrive Paint

Finally, if you’re looking for a high-performance racing bottom paint, Pettit Hard Racing Copper Bronze is a high-performance bottom paint that is specifically designed for racing boats. It is made with a copper-infused epoxy resin, which provides exceptional protection against fouling organisms. The Pettit Hard Racing Copper Bronze also has a high load-carrying capacity and resistance to abrasion, making it an ideal choice for high-speed racing boats. In addition, the Pettit Hard Racing Copper Bronze is available in a wide range of colors, so you can choose the perfect color to match your boat. Hard Racing Copper Bronze is recommended for use in fresh water on racing hulls, sailboats, runabouts, or cruisers. You can use it in saltwater for small, dry sailed boats which are not left in the water. When used above the waterline in saltwater, Hard Racing Copper Bronze will oxidize to a green color if not overcoated with a clear sealing coat.

How long does bottom paint last on a boat?

Bottom paint is designed to last for several years, however, longevity depends on the paint. It will eventually break down and need to be replaced. The specific lifespan will depend on a number of factors, including the type of paint used, the boat’s exposure to sunlight and water, and the amount of wear and tear the bottom of the boat experiences. In general, bottom paint can be expected to last for several years before it needs to be replaced. This makes it a wise investment for any boat owner who wants to protect their investment and keep their boat looking its best.

Final thoughts

Choosing the best bottom paint for your trailered boat comes down to personal preference. If you’re looking for something that will last longer, go with a hard or semi-hard bottom paint; if you’re looking for something that’s easier to apply and renew, go with an ablative bottom paint. Just pick one that’s reputable and has a good track record.

When it comes to choosing the best bottom paint for your trailered boat, there are a lot of factors to consider. If you have any questions or would like assistance, the Bottom Paint Store technical support team can help you find the perfect paint for your boat—whether you’re looking for something eco-friendly, high-performance, or long-lasting.

Using a Signal Coat Indicator for Repainting Ablative Antifouling Paint

Antifouling paint is a type of underwater hull paint, also known as bottom paint. These specialized coatings are designed for the exterior of the hull of a ship or boat and combat the growth, as wells as, the detachment of underwater organisms, such as seaweed, algae, and barnacles. These aquatic life forms bind to the hull and impact a vessel’s performance and longevity.

Anti-fouling paints are often applied as one component of a multi-layering process which can have other benefits in addition to their antifouling properties, such as acting as a barrier against corrosion on metal hulls that will degrade and weaken the metal, or improving the flow of water past the hull of a boat or yacht.

Boaters recognized early on it is important to keep the bottom of their craft free of barnacles due to loss of speed and performance. The key is knowing when to pull your boat out of the water for a new bottom paint application. Ablative paints are typically reapplied every 1–3 years. One way to ensure you reapply your ablative antifouling paint when it’s needed is by adding a signal coat or flag coat.

To apply a signal/flag coat, when you are getting multiple coats of ablative bottom paint applied to your hull, make the first coat a different color. For example, if the bottom is going to be painted blue, make the first coat red. When the blue paint wears off and you see the red flag coat, it is time to repaint.

ablative bottom paint
Aquaguard is an excellent antifouling bottom paint

If you need further assistance with your boat painting project feel free to contact our technical team Monday-Friday 8:30-5:00 pm EST.

Do I Need Bottom Paint on My Boat?

Sea Hawk Cukote Bottom PaintMost of the time when bottom paint is considered on a boat it is Antifouling paint. Bottom paint blocks growth of organisms that attach to the hull and can impact a vessels speed, performance, and durability when the boat is stored in water for extended periods of time. Antifouling bottom paint usually has a flat, dull finish that is used below the waterline. If you don’t have this challenge, you may not need bottom paint. 

If you don’t have a growth problem or would like a nice shine to your boat’s bottom look to our other items like gelcoat or a topside paint for moderate water exposure or an aluminum paint with no antifouling agents. Gelcoat adheres to most gelcoats or fiberglass/resins, see how to apply gelcoat.  A boat bottom with antifouling will need to have it removed via sanding, sandblasting or bottom paint remover before a different type of paint will adhere.

There are generally two types of bottom paint both of which have several variations that create a multitude of products in the market place. The two different types or categories of bottom paint include hard bottom paint and ablative bottom paint.

Hard Bottom Paint vs. Ablative Bottom Paint

Hard bottom paint is bottom paint that is a hard modified epoxy. After you apply hard bottom paint it is very durable and does not wear off. Hard bottom paints typically have a higher ratio of pesticides (usually copper) in them that are exposed in the outer surface of the bottom paint coating. As time goes by, the coating oxidizes and becomes less effective in combating marine growth. Hard bottom paint is generally used on boats when the boat sits for long periods of time without moving at all, or there is little movement of water (current/ tide) around the boat. You should not use a hard paint if you boat comes out of the water such as on a trailer or a lift. After 72 hours, the hard bottom paint will oxidize on the outer surface from the air and becomes ineffective. If you are trailering your boat, or keep it on a lift you should always use ablative bottom paint.

Ablative bottom paint, also known as self- polishing bottom paint, is softer and allows the coating to wear off at a controlled rate. Much like a bar of soap, once the boat moves in the water or there is a current and or tide, the outer layer slowly wears away. The wearing away of the self-polishing bottom paint allows for new, unoxidized paint to be exposed. Therefore, if you are trailering your boat, or it comes in and out of the water for any reason, the paint will oxidize within 72 hours. However, once placed back in service, that oxidized ablative paint wears away and exposes a new fresh outer coating with active protection. Ablative bottom paint is a newer technology then hard paint. It is the preferred bottom paint of most users since it typically lasts longer and continuously exposes a new active outer coating that protects against marine growth.

How long does bottom paint last on a boat?

In general, you should apply boat bottom paint once a year, however; some bottom paints can last for two years. If your boat is kept in the water or you use it regularly, you you have it checked annually to determine if it requires a new bottom paint coating.

For more how to use details see How to apply bottom paint to bare fiberglass or How to apply bottom paint over existing bottom paint.

 

How much does it cost to bottom paint a boat?

How much does it cost to bottom paint a boat?

The cost to paint the bottom of your boat depends on a number of factors including the size of your boat, the paint you choose and whether you use a primer or not. Other factors include whether you will paint your boat or hire someone to paint it. For example, Biocop TF by Sea Hawk, is a popular bottom paint and currently costs $275.77 a gallon and provides theoretical coverage of 315 square feet per gallon. If the bottom surface of your boat is 700 square feet you would theoretically need to purchase three gallons (Biocop is not offered in quarts) at a total cost of $827. 31 for the three gallons.

That may seem expensive for paint, however boat bottom paint uses antifouling properties in order to protect the boat’s bottom from organisms found in saltwater and other elements.

For information on calculating how much paint you need to paint your boat bottom you can refer to our Bottom Paint Calculator.

What is the difference in Hard Bottom Paint and Ablative Bottom Paint?

Hard Bottom Paint Vs. Ablative Bottom Paint

Bottom paint is generally used to keep the growth off of the bottom of your boat. There are generally two types of bottom paint both of which have several variations that create a multitude of products in the market place. The two different types or categories of bottom paint include a hard bottom paint, and an ablative bottom paint.

Sharskin Hard Bottom PaintHard Bottom Paint is bottom paint that is a hard modified epoxy. After you apply a hard bottom paint it is very durable and does not wear off. Hard Bottom Paints ypically have a higher ratio of pesticides (usually copper)  in them that are exposed in the outer surface of the bottom paint coating. As time goes buy, the coating oxidizes and becomes less effective in combating marine growth. Hard bottom paint is generally used on boats when the boat sits for long periods of time without moving at all, or there is little movement of water (current/ tide) around the boat. You should not use a hard paint if you boat comes out of the water such as on a trailer, or a lift. After 72 hours, the hard bottom paint will oxidize on the outer surface from the air and becomes ineffective. If you are trailering your boat, or keep it on a lift you should always use an ablative bottom paint.

AF-33 Ablative Bottom PaintAblative bottom paint, also known as self- polishing bottom paint, is softer and allows the coating to wear off at a controlled rate. Much like a bar of soap, once the boat moves in the water or there is a current and or tide, the outer layer slowly wears away. The wearing away of the self-polishing bottom paint allows for new, un-oxidized paint to be exposed. Therefore, if you are trailering your boat, or it comes in and out of the water for any reason, the paint will oxidize within 72 hours. However, once placed back in service, that oxidized ablative paint wears away and exposes a new fresh outer coating with active protection. Ablative bottom paint is a newer technology then hard paint. It is the preferred bottom paint of most users since it typically lasts longer and continuously exposes a new active outer coating that protects against marine growth.

Related Articles and links:

Hard Bottom Paint

Ablative Bottom Paint

Applying Bottom Paint