How to Coat a Steel Boat Hull

The only protection between a steel boat hull and and the rigors of the sea is the coat of paint applied above the water line. Below the waterline, the steel hull is protected from damaging marine life by the coat of anti-fouling paint applied over a coat of the same paint used above the water line . Proper surface preparation and proper application of paint is instrumental in keeping the hull in good condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Air-powered grinder
  • Coarse grinding wheel
  • Chipping hammer
  • Needle gun
  • Horizontal deck scaler
  • Epoxy primer
  • Drill
  • Paint-mixer attachment
  • Paint rollers
  • Paintbrushes
  • Gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Ear protection
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove any rust from the steel, hull using an air-powered grinder and coarse grinding wheel. In places where the grinder is too large to fit, knock the rust from the steel using a chipping hammer or a needle gun. Large horizontal surfaces, like decks, may be quickly stripped using a horizontal deck scaler.

    • 2

      Mix the epoxy primer according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually found on the paint can, using a drill and paint-mixer attachment

    • 3

      Apply the epoxy primer to large areas of the boat with a paint roller. Use a paintbrush to apply the primer to areas where the roller is too large. Paint the entire steel structure.

    • 4

      Allow the epoxy primer to dry completely. Apply a second coat of epoxy primer and allow the primer to dry fully. After the second coat of primer has dried, mix the epoxy finish paint according to the manufacturer's instructions.

    • 5

      Apply the paint to the vessel, using a paint roller for the large areas of the vessel and a paintbrush for smaller areas. Allow the paint to dry fully. Apply at least one additional coat of finish paint to the vessel.

    • 6

      Mix copper oxide paint thoroughly. Apply the paint to the bottom of the vessel -- below the waterline -- with a paint roller. Allow the paint to dry fully and apply a second coat of the bottom paint.