Antifoul options

[Bouy]

Hi,
I am new to boating, having just bought my first motorboat which I hope to soon keep on the River Medway. I want to do as much routine maintenance as I can myself, even the antifouling (which I've been told is a very messy job!).
Can anyone recommend the best antifoul paint to use, and should this be different for the hull and the sterngear? Or should the sterngear/outdrive be painted at all?
Thanks.

 

[mm1]

welcome

Hi & welcome
1st yes you will need different anti foul products for the hull &legs although there are some that do both,international have a very good web site that gives all the info you should need.
2nd as to type it is best to ask locally which works best in your area,we use V C OFFSHORE on the south coast & it works very well,it is also thin coat so you don't get the build up,it will say on the tin wether it is suitable for aluminium(the legs).
3rd you may also want to check you have the correct anodes! i am not sure which ones you need on that river,regards mm1.

 

[Spi D]

+1
You must identify you needs in terms of use and bating pattern.

Thin teflon types like the VC are very easy to apply and won't build up, as mentioned.

I'd use it only on a clean hull - ie. a hull with no old paint.

Not all can be applied on top of all, so do you homework. Make sure you primer is ok and covers nicely as this forms the barrier that keeps water from the gelcoat (!) and prevent osmosis.

Note that antifoling, primer and thinners normally are composed to interact so get matching makes 'n types.

Blakes, now Hempel, have help just like International an others
http://www.hempel.co.uk/internet/ineukc.nsf/vDOC/207FB384E7139219C1256BE4004DF139?OpenDocument