Deck Paint.

[blkjack]

I am looking to paint the topside. instead of using a polyurethane could I use automotive paint with a flex compound added.

When I paint the hull can I also use this? What is the best paint for the hull excluding the gel coat?

If I decided to spray gel coat, can I use a automotive spray gun?

How do you let gel coat cure?

I wish there is a how to sticky about prep, application, and cure of gel coat.

if there is I would appreciate a quick LINK TO IT.

 

[oops!]

Re: Deck Paint.

hull extension in progress........that boat was gellcoated.......there is an index on page 1.....detailed photos and instructions...

the gun was hvlp.....a pressure pot with the biggest tip you can get...

the other thisg is go to composits one and use a product called patch aid.....it lowers the viscosity of the gellcoat so the sanding is less.
to cure.......the gellcoat is a pigmented poly resin based product....so it needs mekp to catylise

the paints to use instead of gellcoat....are immeron and awl grip

 

[gcboat]

Re: Deck Paint.

If you have never sprayed gel coat I would advise you stay very far away from it.
Any good single pack linear polyurethane paint will yield excellent results if properly prepped. Prep is the key word here. The two coatings that oops mentioned are both two part systems. They will yield a longer life span than the usual one pack systems but their initial cost is a lot higher.
An automotive product will give good results but they will also be a two pack system - so please don't confuse apples and oranges.
Single part finishes such as Easy Poxy or similar will give you many years of service if they are properly maintained - and at a cost savings to boot!
Again, I will emphasize that your prep work is the vital key to a good looking, long lasting top coat no matter which way you go.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Deck Paint.

If you have never sprayed gel coat I would advise you stay very far away from it.

Ayuh,.... I Agree...

Gelcoat is Great for building new boats,...

After That,....
A 2 pt. Urethane paint is the Better way to go...
Both for the Labor factor,+ for the final product....

Think of your boat as a big Corvette...
Then paint it accordingly.....

I've been using automotive paint products on Boats, both above,+ below the waterline for Many years with Great Results....