When it comes to your boat’s topside finish, there’s no room for shortcuts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting your sea legs, this guide will walk you through the steps to applying Awlgrip’s industry-leading topside coatings.
From prepping the surface to laying down that final, glossy coat, we’ve got all the tips, tricks, and no-nonsense advice you need to make your boat look shipshape. So roll up your sleeves, grab your gear, and let’s get to work. Because at the end of the day, there’s nothing more satisfying than a job well done.
Clean the surface thoroughly to remove all dirt, grease, and contaminants.
Sand the surface to create a smooth, even texture.
Apply a suitable primer if necessary to ensure proper adhesion.
Mixing:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing Awlgrip paint with the appropriate catalyst and reducer.
Mix thoroughly to ensure a consistent application.
Application:
Apply the paint using a brush, roller, or spray gun. Spraying usually provides the best finish.
Use multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat to prevent runs and drips.
Allow each coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s guidelines before applying the next coat.
Coverage and Quantity
Coverage: Awlgrip typically covers about 360-400 square feet per gallon, depending on the application method and surface texture.
Quantity: Calculate the total surface area of your project to determine the amount of paint needed. It’s advisable to purchase a bit more than your estimate to account for any errors or additional coats.
Drying and Curing Time
Drying Time: Awlgrip usually dries to the touch within 2-4 hours. However, this can vary based on environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity.
Curing Time: Full curing can take up to 7 days. During this period, avoid heavy usage or exposure to harsh conditions.
Durability and Longevity
Durability: Awlgrip is renowned for its exceptional durability. It withstands harsh marine environments, UV radiation, and chemical exposure.
Longevity: When properly applied and maintained, an Awlgrip finish can last for 5-10 years or more, depending on environmental exposure and usage.
Compatibility
Substrates: Awlgrip is compatible with a variety of substrates including fiberglass, aluminum, steel, and wood when appropriately primed.
Primers and Undercoats: Use Awlgrip primers and undercoats for best results. Ensure compatibility by checking the product datasheets.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Cleaning: Regularly clean the surface with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
Waxing: Avoid waxing Awlgrip finishes as it can lead to yellowing and reduce the lifespan of the coating.
Color Options
Availability: Awlgrip offers a wide range of colors and custom color matching. Consult the Awlgrip color chart for available options.
Fading: The high UV resistance of Awlgrip paints minimizes color fading over time.
Health and Safety
Protective Gear: Always wear appropriate protective gear, including gloves, masks, and goggles, when handling and applying Awlgrip products.
Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation during application to avoid inhaling fumes.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Keep containers tightly closed when not in use.
Repair and Touch-up
Minor Repairs: For small chips and scratches, lightly sand the area and apply a thin coat of Awlgrip paint.
Major Repairs: For larger areas, follow the full application process, including surface preparation and priming, to ensure a seamless repair.
Cost and Value
Cost: Awlgrip is a premium product, and its cost reflects its high quality. Prices can vary, so it’s best to consult a local distributor for current pricing.
Value: The initial investment in Awlgrip is justified by its long-lasting durability, superior finish, and reduced maintenance costs over time.
By following this guide, you can achieve a professional, durable, and aesthetically pleasing finish using Awlgrip Topside products. If you need any assistance selecting the right product for your needs feel free to contact the customer service team at Bottom Paint Store.
Use polyurethane paint when you need a high-gloss, durable finish above the waterline with excellent resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and UV exposure.
Choose single-part polyurethane for easier application and maintenance on topsides, decks, and interior surfaces.
Choose two-part polyurethane for maximum durability and long-term gloss retention on high-visibility areas.
Bottom line: Polyurethane coatings deliver superior appearance and toughness, but require proper surface prep and application conditions.
Tip: Polyurethane paints are not antifouling—do not use them below the waterline unless specifically approved for that application.
Quick Answer: What Is Polyurethane Paint Used For?
Polyurethane paint is used when you need a tough, attractive, high-gloss coating that resists UV exposure, abrasion, chemicals, water, and general wear. In marine applications, polyurethane coatings are most often used above the waterline on topsides, decks, cabins, trim, fiberglass, wood, aluminum, and steel surfaces.
For boat owners, polyurethane paint is a strong choice when appearance and durability matter. It is commonly used as a topside paint, clear coat, protective finish, or deck coating, but it is not the same as bottom paint and should not be used below the waterline unless the product specifically says it is approved for that use.
Best Polyurethane Choice by Use Case
Use Case
Recommended Coating Type
Why It Works
Boat topsides
One-part or two-part polyurethane topside paint
Provides gloss, color retention, UV resistance, and a durable marine finish.
High-gloss professional finish
Two-part polyurethane
Offers the best durability, gloss retention, and long-term performance when applied correctly.
DIY boat refinishing
Single-part polyurethane
Easier to apply, easier to touch up, and more forgiving for brush-and-roll applications.
Decks and walkways
Polyurethane deck coating with non-skid additive
Helps protect high-traffic areas while improving traction when a non-skid additive is used.
Marine woodwork and brightwork
Clear polyurethane or polyurethane varnish
Protects wood while enhancing the appearance of teak, mahogany, trim, and interior wood surfaces.
Bilges, machinery, or equipment areas
Durable polyurethane coating
Helps resist moisture, chemicals, oil, fuel exposure, and general wear.
Boat flotation or insulation
Two-part polyurethane foam
Used for flotation, insulation, soundproofing, and filling hard-to-reach spaces.
What to Consider Before Buying Polyurethane Paint
Before choosing a polyurethane paint or coating, consider the surface you are painting, the level of gloss you want, how much durability you need, and whether the coating will be used above or below the waterline. Polyurethane coatings can perform very well on fiberglass, wood, aluminum, steel, decks, cabins, and marine trim, but surface preparation is critical.
Single-part polyurethane paints are usually the better option for most DIY boat owners because they are easier to apply and maintain. Two-part polyurethane coatings are often preferred for professional refinishing jobs where maximum gloss, hardness, and long-term durability are the top priorities.
Common Questions About Polyurethane Paint and Coatings
What is polyurethane paint?
Polyurethane paint is a durable coating that forms a hard protective film after it cures. It is commonly used where surfaces need resistance to abrasion, chemicals, moisture, sunlight, and general wear while still maintaining an attractive glossy finish.
What is polyurethane paint used for on boats?
On boats, polyurethane paint is commonly used for topsides, decks, cabins, trim, rails, fiberglass repairs, machinery, and marine woodwork. It is especially useful above the waterline where a durable, glossy, UV-resistant finish is needed.
Can polyurethane paint be used below the waterline?
Polyurethane paint should generally not be used below the waterline unless the specific product states that it is approved for that application. For underwater hull areas, boat owners usually need antifouling bottom paint rather than a standard polyurethane topside coating.
Is polyurethane paint better than enamel paint?
Polyurethane paint is generally more durable than traditional enamel paint and usually offers better resistance to abrasion, chemicals, UV exposure, and wear. Enamel may still be suitable for certain lower-cost or less demanding projects, but polyurethane is often preferred for longer-lasting marine finishes.
What is the difference between one-part and two-part polyurethane paint?
One-part polyurethane paint is easier to apply and is a good choice for many DIY boat projects. Two-part polyurethane requires mixing with a hardener or activator, but it typically provides a harder, glossier, longer-lasting finish when applied correctly.
Can polyurethane be applied over existing paint?
Polyurethane may be applied over existing paint if the old coating is clean, sound, properly sanded, and compatible with the new product. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before applying polyurethane over another coating system.
Does polyurethane paint waterproof wood?
Polyurethane paint and clear polyurethane coatings can help seal and protect wood from moisture, but they should not be viewed as a substitute for proper marine wood preparation. For best results, wood should be clean, dry, sanded, and coated according to the product directions.
Is polyurethane paint good for fiberglass boats?
Yes, polyurethane paint is commonly used on fiberglass boats, especially for topsides, cabins, decks, and areas above the waterline. It can provide a smooth, glossy, durable finish when the fiberglass is properly cleaned, sanded, primed, and prepared.
Recommended Polyurethane Products and Related Coatings
Bottom Paint Store carries polyurethane paints, clear coats, varnishes, primers, reducers, and polyurethane foam products for a range of marine applications. Popular options include single-part polyurethane topside paints for DIY refinishing, two-part polyurethane topcoats for high-gloss professional results, clear polyurethane varnishes for wood, and two-part polyurethane foam for flotation and insulation.
Polyurethane paint, also referred to as PU paint or PU coating, is a durable, highly-resistant coating used in industrial and architectural coating systems. It is popular in the marine industry and is used for numerous applications including coatings, rigid and flexible foams, and varnishes. It is also used in steelwork, concrete, wood, and other substrates.
Polyurethane is a reaction polymer, a combination of a polyol resin and an isocyanate hardener or curing agent. Essentially, a polyurethane coating is a liquid plastic which dries to form a paint-like film on an underlying substance or layer. Polyurethane paint provides durability, resistance to chemicals, water, abrasion, and temperature, as well as an attractive glossy finish. The most common application of polyurethane is as a solid foam, accounting for approximately 60% of all polyurethane produced.
Single-Part vs Two-Part Polyurethane Paint Comparison
Polyurethane marine paints are available in single-part and two-part formulations, each suited to different applications, experience levels, and durability requirements.
Quick takeaway: Single-part polyurethane is ideal for ease and maintenance, while two-part polyurethane delivers maximum durability and gloss when applied correctly.
What is polyurethane used for?
Polyurethane is a versatile material that can be used for a wide variety of applications. It is commonly used in the manufacture of plastics, insulation, and coatings. Polyurethane is also used in the production of adhesives, sealants, and elastomers. In addition, polyurethane is often used as a food additive and as a component in medical devices. Polyurethane is an ideal material for many applications due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
Marine Polyurethane Clear Coat
Polyurethane can be used to protect a boats paint and to keep the finish on wooden marine vessels visually appealing and more durable. You can apply polyurethane over any type of paint if it is clean and prepared properly. Polyurethane coatings can be applied to exposed wooden surfaces to create a glossy finish that serves to repel water, resist corrosion, and protect from scratches, stains, and UV damage.
By choosing the right formulation of polyurethane paint or coating, you can achieve a balance of durability, resistance to harsh elements, and an attractive finish.
Top 10 Marine Uses for Polyurethane Paints and Coatings
Polyurethane coatings are prized in the marine industry for their high-gloss finish, UV resistance, and long-term durability. From protecting fiberglass hulls to sealing teak brightwork, polyurethane can handle nearly every above-water challenge on a boat.
1. Boat Hulls and Topsides
Two-part marine polyurethanes create a mirror-smooth, durable surface that resists fading, chalking, and scuffing. Ideal for fiberglass, aluminum, and steel hulls.
2. Decks and Walkways
Polyurethane’s abrasion resistance and flexibility make it excellent for high-traffic deck areas. Non-skid additives can be mixed in for traction.
3. Masts and Rigging Components
Lightweight aluminum spars and hardware benefit from polyurethane’s UV protection and corrosion resistance—keeping bright finishes glossy for years.
4. Engine Rooms and Bilges
Moisture, fuel, and oil exposure demand a tough coating. Polyurethane resists chemicals better than standard enamels while maintaining color stability in confined, humid spaces.
5. Metal Rails and Fittings
Brushed-on polyurethane seals out salt spray and oxidation on stainless or powder-coated surfaces. It also provides an extra barrier against corrosion.
6. Marine Woodwork and Brightwork
Clear polyurethane varnishes showcase the natural grain of teak and mahogany while blocking UV and moisture. Excellent for cap rails, trim, and companionways.
7. Fiberglass Repair Overcoats
After structural repairs or gelcoat restoration, polyurethane provides a tough, glossy top layer that resists chalking and color fade.
8. Tops of Cabins and Superstructures
White or light-colored polyurethane coatings help reflect heat, keeping cabins cooler and reducing maintenance cycles on large vessels and yachts.
9. Marine Equipment and Machinery
Apply polyurethane to generators, cranes, and deck machinery for a resilient surface that handles vibration, oil, and salt exposure without flaking.
10. Trailers and Dock Hardware
Boat trailers, davits, and dock components coated with polyurethane enjoy exceptional chip and corrosion resistance, especially when exposed to road salt or brackish water.
Pro Tip
For best results, apply polyurethane paints over a compatible epoxy or polyurethane primer. Always follow manufacturer recoat windows and use proper safety gear—these coatings are durable because they’re catalyzed with strong chemistry!
Blue Water Marine Mega Gloss Polyurethane
Mega Gloss by Blue Water Marine is a single component topside polyurethane enamel that can be used on fiberglass, wood, aluminum, and steel. It provides a hard protective coating for super high gloss, color retention, and long durability. Mega Gloss is fast drying which when brushed or rolled, it can also be sprayed, and offers a smooth finish, is resistant to tough chemicals, cleaning solutions and ultraviolet light.
Polyurethane Foam Uses
Sea Hawk Polyurethane Foam
Sea Hawk polyurethane foam is urethane foam that provides excellent flotation, soundproofing or insulation. Mixed 1:1 and easy to install in hard-to-reach places. Poly-U-Foam bonds to wood, metal, and fiberglass. It foams wherever it is poured and is impervious to solvents and gasoline. A 2-quart kit will yield 2.5 cubic feet of space. Available in 2lb density. It is advised not to use below 70°F.
Liquid Urethane Foam Kit
Liquid urethane foam is a closed cell foam that comes in varied sizes, most commonly 2LB, 4LB, 8LB and 16LB densities. This two-part liquid, expanding rigid urethane foam is a closed cell, pourable foam, which will resist the absorption of water. It is the ideal boat foam for structural applications as it is resistant to water penetration and can be used for flotation, insulation, casting, carving, sculpting, sign making and areas where an extremely durable (you can penetrate with a fingernail) while it cannot be dented by hand, making it ideal for support.
Pettit Easypoxy/ EZ-Poxy
Pettit EZ-Poxy is an advanced one-part polyurethane topside and deck enamel. It’s a high gloss finish flows well when applied with a brush. It is a modern one-part polyurethane topside and deck enamel. It It’s use of silicone provides a brilliant shine and easy brush-ability. Its advanced ultraviolet filters enhance the superior gloss retention and durability of polyurethane. The result is a topside finish that is exceptionally easy to apply, producing a lasting gelcoat-like brilliance with a minimum of effort. It is more economical, requires less effort, and is more forgiving than the competition.
Easypoxy’s innovative ultraviolet filters improve gloss retention and enhance the polyurethane’s durability. This results in an end product that is simple to apply and easily creates an enduring shine and superior gloss retention, similar to that of polished gelcoat. Pettit Easypoxy is available in numerous colors.
Interlux Spray Reducing Solvent
Interlux’s Reducing Solvent 2316N is for use in specific two-part polyurethane and epoxy products. It is an amazingly effective, fast evaporating solvent. Safe for aluminum outdrives. Refer to the specific product directions for the amount to be used.
Interlux Pre-Kote
Pre-Kote® is a unique V.O.C. compliant, single package, undercoater or primer for use with Brightside® Polyurethane, Yacht Enamels, or anyone-part topside finish. Microspheres give Pre-Kote® superior build and hide while improving flow and sandability. Use anywhere above the true waterline where a coating is needed to provide a smooth, fair surface for overcoating with a topside enamel.
Interlux Goldspar Satin Varnish
Designed for interior wood surfaces, Interlux Goldspar Satin Varnish is a modified polyurethane low luster varnish. It produces a rich satin sheen finish that resists scratches and stains and applies easily enough to yield truly professional results by either brush or spray. It’s low luster finish makes it ideal for cabin soles, cabinets, counters, tables, as well as home interior finishes.
Urethane Paint
Urethane paint was created in the mid-1960s, utilizing newly developed plastics technology, and designed to be superior to enamel paint in terms of durability by mixing pigment with polyurethanes, which act as the binder to hold the pigment molecules together. Semi-gloss urethane paints have been developed, but all urethane paint will have some degree of glossiness, because the same properties that make it resilient also make it reflect light. It has become a staple in the marine and automotive industry because of its durability.
AwlGrip Topcoat
AwlGrip Topcoat is a polyester based high gloss polyurethane topcoat giving long lasting gloss and color retention. It can only be applied above the waterline of your boat by either a brush, roller, or spray. You should apply Awlgrip Topcoat in two coats of 1.5 to 2.5 mils WFT each and allow 16 hours between each coat. Sanding between coats with 280 to 400 grit paper will provide a smoother finish.
Interlux Perfection Plus
Considered by many as the ultimate clear wood varnish, Interlux Perfection Plus is a high-performance clear polyurethane, offering multiple solutions from one product delivering the ultimate in clear wood coating performance. The chemical cure urethane formulation combines with a best-in-class UV and HALS package to offer outstanding chemical and abrasion resistance, and superb gloss and gloss retention. It typically lasts four times longer than conventional one-part varnishes and can is suitable for all woods, including teak.
Awlgrip 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.
The 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 Topsidepaint, the converterand 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 converterto 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 Converteruntil 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.
