Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

[lbheyman]

I know this is probably on here some where but I can't seem to find it. I am going to be painting my aluminum starcraft today. What is the best paint to use? I am on a slight budget as I got the boat for free, I am not wanting to put a lot of money into it. I have removed all the seats from the boat and pressure washed it last night. Today I will be painting. I would like to use a paint that I won't have to prime first. Thanks!

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

Hey Neighbor..well kinda..

If your paint is in decent shape now..just sand to scuff it up, wash it down and roll regular rustoleum on if you want. Use a closed cell foam roller, like they use to paint cabinets and well, alum siding.

I used it and many others here have a well..I may have spent no more than 60 bucks on paint for my Holiday

 

[geedubcpa]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

Look for a urethane based enamel - I believe thats what rusteolum is. Its low cost and holds up decent.

 

[lakelover]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

If you're painting over bare aluminum and not a layer of sound paint, you'll have to prime it or the paint will peel off. If it's over paint, scuff it as mentioned above, and Rustoleum is probably your most cost-effective and widely available paint.

Kev, when did you paint yours and how is it holding up?

 

[Isaacm1986]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

Just painted my 21ft starcraft with rustoleum and it looks good. For the price, you cant beat it. $26 a gallon, and 1 gallon should be plenty to paint your boat.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

If you're painting over bare aluminum and not a layer of sound paint, you'll have to prime it or the paint will peel off. If it's over paint, scuff it as mentioned above, and Rustoleum is probably your most cost-effective and widely available paint.

Kev, when did you paint yours and how is it holding up?

I painted mine almost a year ago, and heres a crease in my hull from the infamous trailer launch into a cow pasture...The crease is from it rubbing on the bow stop as it flew over it...I say it's pretty damn durable!

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

Heres a couple before and afters of the trusty rusty

after

I was impressed with the rustoleum..The issue you said is "Best" and "cheapest"..Rusty may not be the "best" but it is much "cheaper" than many marine paints, including their own marine grade paint.

 

[bigskiohio]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

is that just white or is there a not so white color.

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

is that just white or is there a not so white color.

Mine is white...Dang near appliance white..lol
I think they have softer whites, or heck couldnt a paint store mix some custom? I dont see why not..

 

[lbheyman]

Re: Best Aluminum Boat Paint???

Well, I went with the Rustoleum. I pressure washed the boat last night and put a layer of primer down on the inside today. I am hoping to get a coat of paint in it tomorrow! Forgot the camera so I will post pictures tomorrow. Thanks for all the advice!