Flag Antifoul and Paints

FLAG ANTIFOULING TIPS

• If no antifouling has been applied to the hull before, it will need to be keyed. Sand it with wet & dry paper and coat it with a primer. (It may also need to be thoroughly cleaned with a solvent to remove any mould release agent)
• On a hull which has been antifouled previously, ensure the new paint is compatible with the old one, or apply a barrier coat (ie. Primer). Ensure the substrate is not flaking; do not dry sand it.
  
• Check the minimum period you need to leave between coats and minimum or maximum time the boat should be left out of the water between painting and relaunching.
• Keep cans of paint indoors until you need them. The paint will be easier to apply if it is not too cold.
• Use good quality masking tape to mask off the waterline. A cheaper one could allow paint to creep underneath for a messy finish and might not peel off cleanly.
• Choose a dry day for painting. A damp atmosphere can adversely effect adhesion.
• Always stir the paint well. And then stir it again before tipping into the paint tray.
• Use either a brush or a roller to apply it, but not too large a roller. A short mohair one is ideal.
• Work the brush or roller in a criss-cross pattern, and don't spread the paint too thinly. Apply an extra coat to all leading and trailing edges, such as the waterline, bow, keels and rudders where applicable.
• Do not paint over anodes or transducers.