How To Paint Wood Boats?

Are you wondering how to paint wood boats? Wood boats need more maintenance than fiberglass or metal. In order to paint a wood boat use a tarp under the boat before work begins.

• liquid laundry detergent
• rags
• screwdrivers
• sand paper (120 and 80 grit)
• wood primer
• paint
• electric sander
• sprayer, paint brush or a roller

1. Choose a day or work area where humidity or wind will not affect the paint. Debris blown in the area will stick to wet paint. Humidity will work against the paint.
2. Clean your boat to ensure a smooth finish. Use liquid laundry detergent to clean your boat. Apply with a stiff brush, rub gently. Once the detergent is applied allow it to sit for about five minutes to eat away debris. Rinse the detergent off thoroughly. Dry the boat completely using rags.
3. Remove hardware. Decorative hardware needs to be removed to protect it from sanding and paint. Place decorative hardware away from the boat and work area.
4. Sand the boat using an electric sander. Use an 80 grit sand paper if the boat has not been painted before. Use 120 grit sand paper if the boat has been painted previously.
5. Use wood fill primer. A coat of primer needs to be applied. Sand with 120 grit sand paper to a smooth finish. Reapply primer, sand again to a smooth finish.
6. Paint the boat. Whether using an oil, water based acryllic or a polyurethane follow the manufacturers instructions on applications. You can roll, use a brush or spray the paint on a wood boat. If you choose to roll paint on with a roller, take time to tip the bubbles out. This procedure will work faster with two people.