Moist or dry for bottom scraping

[2copplane]

I’m about to lift for antifouling and this year planning to scrape off her bottom and remove umpteen flakey layers. Is it better to scrape while the paint is still moist or give it a while to dry out. I imagine dried out is better as it will be more brittle.

She is A 40footer so keen to make it as easy as possible.

 

[Rappey]

Have a go when it's wet and another when dry and see what method best works for you ?
Certainly less dust wet.

 

[Daydream believer]

Get it soda blasted

 

[Concerto]

Or get it dry ice blasted.
Dry Ice – Gransden Construction Ltd

 

[Pye_End]

Chip paint off dry, then use sanding mesh wet.

 

[TSB240]

I used a hand scraper from Toolstation with a carbide blade. If you have time on your hands it is the best way to check every inch of your gelcoat! I found it removed all the harder antifoul down to a thin primer coat. This was slightly softrr and was easily removed with a large car body shop Red scotch bright pad used wet. No further preparation was required prior to repaint. Keep any antifouling dust or bits out 9f your eyes by either pushing away when scraping or Goggles.
You should of course collect all scrapings and dispose as hazardous waste . Your marina should now have a prescribed area or bund for the job.to prevent pollution into the water course.

It won't be long before all AF work will have to be managed professionally.

 

[Streaker1421]

I've just finished scraping my bottom!!!

31 foot, so a bit smaller. I personally found that a combination of both wet and dry worked best depending on the layers. I used a Bahco pull scraper with the corners of the blade rounded off. It was a much harder job than I predicted and from my lessons learned, I would say don't underestimate how long it will take and how much mess it will make. Most importantly, make sure you have the correct PPE.

A huge sense of satisfaction once it's done.

 

[Rhylsailer99]

i had tennis elbow for months after scraping my hull its an awful job. But after lifting out 12 months later it still looks mint on the bottom.