Do I really need to use a primer

[rdc]

I want to paint my existing faded blue stripe on my fiberglass boat. I want to use either perfection, or brightside by Interlux. The stripe is above the waterline. I know I need to wipe solvent to remove any wax, and then sand with 220 grit to rough up the surface. My question is about the need for primer. I was thinking if the paint was scratched at a later time it would still be blue if I didn't prime. Anyone not use primer, or other opinions?<br />Thanks

 

[flashback]

Re: Do I really need to use a primer

rdc, you do not need to use primer, I have painted over a lot of gel coat with many different kinds of paint including bright side and have never had a problem, in-fact I think it is more durable without it, as primer, in many cases is softer than the top coat and will allow it to scratch more easily.. And like you said, if it does get scratched, the scratch is blue also. I do think 220 is a little coarse tho.. I generally use a green scotch pad to scuff up the stripe..

 

[imported_bjs]

Re: Do I really need to use a primer

go for it!!!!! but use some finer sandpaper maybe 320.what is interlux paint never heard of that paint. is that paint enamel or utherane?

 

[surlyjoe]

Re: Do I really need to use a primer

most of those one part urethane paints recomend applying straight over good gelcoat. they usually only recomend primer for bare glass or previous paint

 

[rdc]

Re: Do I really need to use a primer

Thanks for the advice all. I was hopeing not to use primer. I will sand with with less course grit sandpaper. I'm getting my spring projects in order.

 

[rdc]

Re: Do I really need to use a primer

Thanks for the advice all. I was hopeing not to use primer. I will sand with with less course grit sandpaper. I'm getting my spring projects in order.

 

[thunderroad]

Re: Do I really need to use a primer

Definitely go lighter on the sandpaper...much lighter..I'd wet-sand with 600 if it were me. You can always go to a more coarse if it's necessary. You might save yourself a lot of sand marks in your final finish or unnecessary sanding in the prep process. A good cleaning and scuffing is about all it needs.