How often does topside boat paint have to be replaced?

Topside paint can last anywhere from a few years to a few decades, it all depends on the amount and severity of traffic and exposure to elements your boat gets.

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Q: How do you prepare docks for painting?

You need to sweep it clean and wash the area as best as you can to get rid of all debris and dirt, then prime it. Let it dry and then apply the paint in the same manner, applying a second coat once the first is dry. Not all topside paint has the same application process but we can provide instructions for your exact brand and variety of paint.

Q: How do you prepare boat decks painting?

You need to scrape off old paint if peeling, clean and wash the area as best as you can to get rid of all debris and dirt, then prime it. Let it dry and then apply the paint in the same manner, applying a second coat once the first is dry. Not all topside paint has the same application process but we can provide instructions for your exact brand and variety of paint.

Q: Does an aluminum boat need to be primed before you paint it?

Yes, you need to use what is known as a self-etching primer before painting an aluminum boat. This type of primer features a special formula with chemicals that will micro-etch the aluminum surface.

Q: What kind of paint is best for wooden boats?

It is best to use more traditional types of paint, like oil-based finishes. Not only because modern two-part paints are very expensive, but the fact that they are less flexible. Wood flexes and swells, and you need a marine varnish finish that will not crack or deteriorate. If looking for topside, non-skid paint standard boat paints will work when paired with a wood primer.

Q: How long does it take Tuff Coat to dry?

After 10 to 12 hours, Tuff Coat paint will be dry enough to accommodate light wear. However, it is best to let it dry completely which normally takes about 24 hours, and just to be on the safe side you need to leave it for between 5 to 7 days for it to cure.

When it comes to boats and docks, paint is not only important because it provides a protective non-slip layer, but also gives it an attractive finish and is an important part of boat maintenance. » Read More

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Why Dock Paint & Boat Paint is Important?

If you are new to boat and dock care, you may wonder why it is so important to choose the right marine topside paint. you may think all marine paints are the same, however, that is not the case!

Dock Paint & Boat Paint Needs to be Non-Slip

Both boats and docks are very wet and slippery places. Can you imagine how much more they would be slippery if you used an ordinary and very slippery high gloss paint? The last thing you want is for you or anyone else to have an accident and get injured using your boat or dock.

Therefore, you must get non-slip paint that creates safer surfaces to walk and work on, while making them look smart and aesthetically pleasing.

Protect Boats & Docks

The other main reason you need to think carefully when choosing the right boat paint and dock paint is the very reason you are buying the paint in the first place. Aside from aesthetics, it is important to use antifouling paint on certain boat parts or sections of your dock to protect them from damage and deterioration.

Benefits of Different Boat Topside Paint Products

As there are many different types of paint products available right now from Boat Outfitters, we thought we would highlight some of the main benefits so you can easily see which is best for your specific needs.

Tuff Coat Deck Coating

This can be used to enhance boats by providing a textured, non-slip surface. Compared to others, one of the distinct advantages this boat paint has is that it is not too hard or uncomfortable underfoot when you or anyone walks on or uses a surface coated with it.
It’s gentle yet grips super well!
Capable of handling lots of foot traffic and heavy machinery like forklifts.
Adheres easily to various materials like asphalt, rubber, metal, vinyl, wood, concrete, plastic, and fiberglass. With the correct primer.
Can be rolled or sprayed on surfaces easily in thin layers
The Tuff Coat textured roller is great for using on surfaces you want to finish with a specific type of texture. It benefits from a unique honeycomb design that makes it easier to spread the paint evenly. It also helps provide grip with the added texture the roller applies.

KiwiGrip Non-Skid Additive Coating

This particular coating and paint alternative is great because it is non-skid and non-slip, long-lasting, and very easy to install.
Can be used with a variety of different materials including metal, porcelain, marble, tile, vinyl, concrete, epoxy, and fiberglass.
The specific roller is key to creating a non-slip surface. Kiwi grip does not have a particulate like many other non-skip paints, rather the texture of the roller creates the gripping surface. You can control the depth of surface variation/grip by how much pressure is applied to the roller.

Other Uses for Boat & Marine Paint

Aside from use on boats and decking, many of the paints we offer here at Boat Outfitters are suitable for non-marine uses, including:

Porches and decks
Pool areas, and locations like waterparks
Any area where extra grip or a non-slip surface is needed
Any outdoor location and application where weatherproof paint is required

Why Boat Outfitters is the Best Supplier for Tuff Coat & Marine Paint

You may wonder why you should choose to buy dock and boat paint from Boat Outfitters in particular. You can be sure that any of the paint products featured on this site have been used by at least one or more of our team on our boats, docks, marinas, and other applications.

We sell a large selection of Tuff Coat and other paints designed with a huge variety of different projects in mind. You are unlikely to have trouble finding the right paint for the specific project you are working on, whether it is painting boats, docks, waterparks, or something else. It doesn’t even matter the size of the job either. We can accommodate your needs and requirements.

We are renowned not just for our extensive product catalog, but also for our commitment to delivering second-to-none customer service. If you have a question or query about painting your boat, dock, etc. get in contact with us today and one of our experts will help you.

Want to learn more about maintaining and upgrading your boat?

Check out our learn section to make the most of your time on the water!

Need More Help Deciding? Give us a call!

For the last 40+ years, we’ve perfected the art of upgrading boats and helping boaters better enjoy their time on the water. If you have a question about a product or project give us a call! Our team of experts is here to help!

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Commonly Asked Questions about Boat Paint

How do you prepare docks for painting? (show/hide)

How do you prepare boat decks painting? (show/hide)

Does an aluminum boat need to be primed before you paint it? (show/hide)

What kind of paint is best for wooden boats? (show/hide)

How long does it take Tuff Coat to dry? (show/hide)