Winter is the most common time for boat owners to put on jumpsuits, pick up sanding tools and apply antifoul to their boats. But what exactly is antifoul? And what is the importance of it? How many coats should you apply? And how often? Keep reading to find out!
What is Antifoul?
Antifouling is the process of protecting your hull from marine growth by applying a protective paint layer to the bottom of your boat.
Why Should I Antifoul?
When a boat is sat afloat for an extended period, marine life such as algae and barnacles can build up on the hull. This build-up of marine growth can affect the performance of your boat and its fuel efficiency. Heavy levels of growth on the hull can slow powerboats by 5knots and could increase fuel consumption by over 30%.
How often should I Antifoul?
The frequency of antifouling depends on the usage and storage of your boat. Boats that live afloat or that are used regularly should be checked every year to assess whether it needs reapplying. Boats that live ashore and have been washed down may only need antifouling every other year. The team at Haven Quay can assess your hull and give you their professional opinion once your boat is ashore.
What is special about Antifoul paint?
Antifouling paint isn't your usual domestic paint! Modern antifoul paint is a special chemical combination which includes copper and biocides to obstruct the growth of marine organisms.
There are also different types of antifoul based on your hull material, type of hull (planing, non-planing) and the type of water you sail on. If you're in any doubt about which paint you require, ASK US!
Do I need 1 coat? 2 coats? Start from scratch?
The amount of antifoul paint that needs to be applied will depend on the condition of the hull. If your boat is antifouled every year, then it is likely it will only need 1 coat. However, it is has been a few years since the hull's last antifoul, then it may need 2 coats.
What's the process of antifouling?
Antifouling is a dirty and messy job and, as a result, boat owners often prefer marine professionals to do the dirty work!
Here's the good news - WE CAN DO IT FOR YOU! Anti-fouling is one of the services we provide here at Haven Quay, so if you'd like to book your boat in with us, contact us today. Antifouling can be a messy and tiring job, let us take the stress, mess and hassle away by doing the job for you. Our Antifouling offer includes 7 days FREE storage ashore. You don't have to worry about the cradle patches; our team will ensure these are painted prior to launching.
If you do want to antifoul your boat yourself, then you are welcome to come ashore at Haven Quay and use our boatyard. You'll need good quality PPE (personal protective equipment) including gloves, goggles, breathing mask and overalls. You'll then need to strip the underside of your hull removing any worn paint, apply masking tape along the water-line to create a crisp edge, before washing dusting off the hull and painting. But if all of this sounds too tricky, then let us do it for you!
The Haven Quay team are experts in antifouling so feel free get in touch with questions or if you want some useful tips or advice. Call 01590 677072 or email havenquay@yachthavens.com.