Tag Archives: awlcraft

Awlgrip vs. Awlcraft SE – What are the differences?

Awlgrip and Awlcraft SE – Which is better?

Here’s an overview of the key differences between Awlgrip and Awlcraft SE (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 SE is mainly used for 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 SE 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 denser and tougher. Awlgrip has more abrasion and chemical resistance than Awlcraft SE 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. When deciding which topcoat to choose, it is best to consider factors such as cure times, reparability, application methods, chemical resistance, and abrasion resistance.

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 SE is more suited for buffing, whereas Awlgrip will require a Fairing Compound, as it cannot be buffed.

Awlgrip vs Awlcraft SE – Fast Facts

Awlgrip – Polyester Urethane Topcoat

  • Can be applied by spray, brush/roll.
  • Excellent color retention and chemical resistance.
  • More dense molecular structure.
  • Cannot be wet-sanded or buffed

Awlcraft SE – Acrylic Urethane Topcoat

  • For spray application only.
  • Superior flow-out and high gloss.
  • Fast drying to reduce dust entrapment and repairable to reduce downtime
  • Awlcraft SE must be clear-coated.

Awlgrip Color Chart

 

Link to this post!

Restoring and Maintaining Awlgrip and Awlcraft 2000 Paint

Last Updated: February 10, 2026

Quick Recommendation

Restoring & Maintaining Awlgrip vs Awlcraft 2000

  • Awlgrip: Best for maximum durability and long-term gloss—clean gently and do not compound aggressively; restore shine with approved cleaners and sealants.
  • Awlcraft 2000: Easier to polish and repair; light compounding and polishing can restore gloss when oxidation appears.
  • Routine care: Wash with mild soap, avoid abrasives, and protect with a paint-safe sealant to slow UV damage.
  • Bottom line: Choose maintenance methods based on the coating—Awlgrip favors gentle care, while Awlcraft 2000 allows corrective polishing.

Tip: Always confirm the coating type before polishing—using compound on Awlgrip can permanently dull the finish.

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.
Link to this post!