How to paint your boat: 5 steps to optimal high gloss ⛵

Boat varnish is an effective means of making wooden materials on your boat or yacht wear-resistant and providing lasting protection against weathering, moisture, water damage, abrasion and mildew. It offers an attractive glossy surface, durability in different weather scenarios, optimal water resistance and UV protection. In addition, the paint reduces the damage from everyday bumps and knocks experienced while boating.

Whether it's touching up small areas or the entire boat, here are five steps to ensure your new coat of paint goes smoothly.

You will need:

• Boat varnish (matt or glossy, color?)
• fine sandpaper
• possibly Masking tape to mask off the area not to be coated
• Paint roller, brush or airless spray gun
• if necessary, a thinner (this can also be used afterwards to clean the device. )

1) Preparation

Good preparation makes the painting process easier and leads to the best possible result.

Wash the boat hull with soapy water and a scrubbing brush. This removes deposits and contaminants. Also clean your work area thoroughly.

Use painter's tape to mask off any areas that are not to be painted.

The processing and especially the drying of boat paints should not take place below 10°C.

2) Protect yourself and the environment

It is recommended to wear latex gloves . These prevent the absorption of toxins through the skin and you don't have to laboriously scrape the paint off your hands.

Protect your lungs by wearing a dust mask. Avoid inhaling dust and paint and solvent fumes. Always read the paint warnings and dispose of paint cans and other chemicals in an environmentally responsible manner.

3) Grinding

After that, it's time to grind. 120-180 grit sandpaper is recommended. Dents and deep scratches in the hull should also be sanded out generously. Remove decayed material. After thorough sanding, remove any dust from the surface and from your work area. The area to be painted should be clean, dry and free of grease, silicone and wax. You should definitely remove loose old paintwork or rust beforehand. Important: Do not use soapy cleaners or scouring milk.

4) Roll or paint base paint onto hull.

Paint the boat with a paint roller or brush. You should work quickly and paint the boat from the bottom up with the roller. For a natural look, paint with the grain of the wood. Do most of the work with a paint roller. The fine work can then be done with the brush. Note: Highest smoothness means highest gloss.

Tip: Use the same color as the top (especially when painting over a dark colored hull). Leave the color approx. dry for eight hours.

When the paint has hardened, roughen the entire surface again and then remove the dust.

5) Delete further layers

Two to three coats should be enough and will provide a deep shine once you have applied your final top coat. Sanding should be done between each layer.

> Get out and enjoy the ride!

Ready for your project? Whether matt or glossy, colorless or in over 200 different RAL colors; we offer you a large selection of high-quality boat paints.

Please also note our helpful instructions for use.