What surface preparation is needed before applying topside paint on an aluminum boat?

Before you apply topside paint on your aluminum boat, you want to be sure the surface is completely dry and free of dirt, grease, wax, previous paint in poor condition, or other contaminants. For best results, follow these simple steps to prep your aluminum boat for topside paint.

1.  SAND - Sand the surface to promote a good mechanical bond for the new primer/paint to grab onto.
   • Previous Paint in Poor Condition: We recommend removing all previous paint that is peeling, chipped, or cracking. Sandblast (using non-metallic media) or disc sand (80-grit sandpaper) the aluminum to clean, bright metal. Remove sanding residue, as directed on the barrier coat/primer label.
   • Previous Paint in Good Condition: Sand the surface with 220-grit, and remove sanding residue as directed on the primer you are using.
   • Bare Aluminum: Sandblast (using non-metallic media) or disc sand the aluminum to clean, bright metal. Remove all sanding/blasting residue, as directed on the barrier coat/primer label.
   
   NOTE: If using a direct-to-metal paint, such as TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Topside Paint**, no primer is needed.
   
   **If using TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Topside Paint, prior to application, you can use TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Etch Wash to etch the surface and maximize the bond strength of the topside paint.
   
   
2. PRIME - A primer coat helps the paint adhere to the aluminum surface and provides an added layer of corrosion protection. Remove all sanding/blasting residue and immediately apply two coats of a barrier coat primer, such as TotalBoat Aluminum Boat Barrier Coat or TotalBoat 2-Part Epoxy Primer, as directed on the label. Pay special attention to dry time to recoat with barrier coat, and the dry time to apply topside paint. 
   
   
3. Apply topside paint, as directed.