How to Paint Aluminum Canoes

Aluminum is a strong and durable metal that can withstand the rigors of rough water without taking damage. It also happens to be lightweight enough to be portable across land, making it a favorite for many canoe enthusiasts. While painting your canoe is not necessary for protection of the metal, it is required if you wish to mount anything to the hull, and can add a bit of individuality to your boat.

Things You'll Need

  • Car wash soap
  • Sponge
  • Scrub brush
  • Fine grit sandpaper
  • Aluminum oxide primer
  • Paintbrush
  • Epoxy paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the aluminum canoe hull using car wash soap and a sponge to remove any dirt or debris. Switch to a scrub brush to remove any ingrained dirt. Rinse off the soapy residue with clean water then wait for the aluminum to dry.

    • 2

      Sand the hull with a fine grit sandpaper to create a slightly textured surface for the primer to adhere to. Rinse off the surface and allow it to dry. Wipe the canoe with a tack cloth to remove any dust before painting.

    • 3

      Apply a coating of aluminum oxide primer to the canoe to protect the metal from oxidization and create a smooth surface suitable for painting. Brush the primer onto the hull with a paintbrush, building up the primer coat with two light layers. Wait about two hours between layers to allow the first layer to begin setting. Allow the second layer to dry overnight.

    • 4

      Sand the primer layer with fine grit sandpaper to remove the brushstrokes and any primer high points. Wipe the sanded primer with the tack cloth to remove sanding residue.

    • 5

      Apply two coats of epoxy paint to the canoe using the paintbrush. Brush the paint over the primer, building up each coat of paint using two layers to conceal the primer. Wait about 10 minutes between layers for the paint to begin to set, and two hours between coats. Allow the final coat 48 hours drying time after placement.