Antifoul yea or neigh

[Scareyclott]

Hi
I have just collected a brand new sparkly rudder for my Gibsea76 but I have a question about antifouling.

Do I need it?

I ask this as the 2 pack finish is immaculate and shiny and I am presuming that to antifoul it I will need to create a key with some sort of abrasive.

My boat is kept in fresh water on Lake Windermere so it doesn’t get the sort of growth you get at sea. I can also raise the rudder nearly all of the way out of the water which allows it to be periodically cleaned.

If I do need it then can someone advise if this is the correct method?
1. Key surface and clean
2. Paint with 1 x primer
3. Paint with 2 x antifoul (soft type)

I look forward to your comments
Scott

 

[alahol2]

If you are willing to clean it regularly, I wouldn't bother with the antifoul for a couple of years. Maybe when it gets a bit knocked about, then is the time to cover it.

Your method is what I would do. Except that being in fresh water I might be tempted to put a few coats of epoxy to forestall osmosis.

 

[Scareyclott]

Thanks for the advice alahol2,

Think i will use it as is and have it done with the boat next time it is due.

Not so bothered about osmosis as i had it made out of hardwood

Scott

 

[30boat]

I used to have my boat in the almost fresh waters of the Pearl River and the Epiglass antifoul paint lasted for years with almost no fouling.Maybe you'll get away without any paint.