14' Aluminum boat paint

[REDE4OBX]

I was recently given a 14' aluminum boat and after going over all the rivets, repairing what is needed, I'd like to paint the interior and exterior. I was thinking a non-skid interior paint, but I'd like to paint the exterior with a simi-gloss paint that I can use a paint sprayer. Can anyone recommend a paint type/brand for this purpose? Also can the non-skid interior be sprayed rather than rolled or brushed? Thanks for help and advise.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Welcome aboard. I would read Woodonglass's thread on using inexpensive tractor paint. http://forums.iboats.com/forum/boat...1961-lonestar-flamingo-splashed-w-pics/page16

 

[REDE4OBX]

Thanks Scott. Very informative thread, will get me going in right direction.

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,.... It's hard to beat Rustoleum for price, 'n durability,....

 

[jigngrub]

Beware those paint hardeners, they're some vile and nasty stuff that requires the correct respirator to work safely with them.

I know most people like the way paint looks on aluminum boats, but it's a pain to keep looking nice. Always having to put out the dock bumpers and being real careful not to nick or ding the paint, until it happens... the first big ding or gouge, you'll cuss and fuss and may even tinkle your pants a little after you put a nice boogered up spot on all that hard work. The first time I dinged my brand new Tracker, blood squirted out of my eyeballs and fire shot out of my aft end simultaneously! Then that was the end of trying to keep the outside from getting scratched, to heck with it she can wear her battle scars proudly.

A brushed exterior looks good on an aluminum boat and it's an easy application and very easy to keep up.just scrub it in one direction with a scotch-brite pad and she'll look new every time you wash her.

 

[gm280]

jng, some folks like the nice look of their boats. It is like vehicles. Some like a nice blemished free vehicle and tries to keep it that way. While others couldn't care less if their vehicle is dinged and dented up with paint chips and rust showing through. So if the OP wants his aluminum boat to look nice, why not? I say go for it. After all it is your boat... Prime and paint it whatever color scheme you like. That's what make this world so interesting. Everybody has different likes and dislikes... :thumb:

 

[Woodonglass]

We've had a LOT of iBoats members paint their boats with the Rustoleum/Tractor Paint formula with Hardener and I don't recall any of them posting any complaints about maintenance issues and their boats not looking nice. Most of them are extremely pleased with how they look and the durability of the results even after having them on the water for a few seasons. But as stated...It's your boat and you can do as you please!!!