Re: Roll-n-tip vs spray
Ok first, go to the interlux website and read up. Also look at the videos they have. That will give you a good heads up.
It may seem a little complicated at first but trust me its not. If I can figure it out anyone can.
Use only thin nap phenolic core rollers as mentioned in gcboat's post. Marine polyurethane paints have strong solvents that eat cheaper (latex) rollers. They are available at marine suppliers, both online and local.
I used a single roller to do the first coat of the boat in my earlier post. They can be cleaned but remember, these paints are polyurethane based. They have to be cleaned using thinner, not water. Its easier to just buy a few rollers and dispose of the used ones. Start fresh with a new one for each coat.
The brush is different story. Buy a quality, chisel tipped brush with natural bristles. I have used china bristle brushes from the home center. But I prefer badger hair. Badger hair is expensive, I think I gave $30.00 for the four inch one I have. However the bristles have held up much better after repeated cleanings than the ones from the hardware store.
Cleaning tip: Use two or three pots of thinner to clean your brush. Use the first to start, when it becomes loaded with paint, move to the next clean pot. Then when the brush is almost completely clean move to the third clean pot to remove the rest of the paint and finish the bristles. Also get yourself a brass bristle cleaning brush from the hardware store. You can use it to gently brush out the bristles of any particles of paint that may be left. It is great for removing any partially dried paint from the brush. Be thorough and the brush will dry like new.
Another consideration is the roller pan. Get a roller tray and compatible solvent resistant plastic liners. (home center) When you are done painting, peel out the liner and throw it away. Pop in a new one and there is easy cleanup.
One more word about brushes. There may be areas of the boat that the roller cannot be used to apply the paint and you need to use a brush. I recommend keeping a second brush handy to apply the paint and reserve your expensive one for tipping off only. It is important that your tipping brush not become loaded with paint while you work. I use a cheaper China bristle to apply the paint in these areas, and tip it off with the badger. It keeps the badger brush cleaner and yields a smoother finish. I have had novice experience with both one part and two part marine polyurethanes. Each has its own characteristics. However both of them are easy to use. Spend 90 percent of your time prepping the surface and 10 percent painting and you will get a great finish. I am very happy with mine.
You mentioned that you bought Rustoleum marine paint. Be sure Rustoleum can be rolled as we have recommended.
