Marine growth will build up on your boat wherever you sail, so it’s vital to protect your hull correctly. A fouled hull causes all sorts of problems, so you definitely want to avoid this situation.

What Is Marine Growth?

The hull attracts all kinds of marine life – plankton, moss and algae settle on the hull and stick like glue. The result is a layer of quick-growing, green slime that further attracts seaweed and barnacles.

How Will It Affect Your Boat?

Left untreated, marine growth spreads way beyond the hull and creates costly and damaging problems.
• Blockages and corrosion as water intakes become clogged up.
• Damage to propellers and drive shafts.
• Impairs handling of the boat.
• A significant reduction in speed (anything from 10 – 30%).
• A big increase in fuel consumption (approximately 40%) and hence fuel cost.

Prevent the Problem with Antifouling Paint

Happily, marine growth doesn’t need to be a problem. Antifouling paint applied to the hull substantially slows down the build-up of marine growth, and it improves water flow around the boat. The result is better manoeuvrability and a distinct improvement in speed.

Which Antifouling Paint Is Right for Your Boat?

Where you use and keep your boat is a major factor. Inland waterways and estuaries are subject to water runoff such as treated sewage or fertilisers. This potent combination is a fertile breeding ground for marine growth.
If you use your boat at sea, you’ll also attract marine growth, although be aware that the organisms present in seawater aren’t the same as the freshwater variety. Fortunately, there are appropriate paints for all environments, so make sure you pick the right one for you.

Soft Antifoul Paint

Also known as self-polishing, soft antifoul is suitable for slower vessels such as sailing boats or power boats (not exceeding 28 knots). As the boat moves, the paint slowly erodes to leave a new layer of antifoul on the hull. This won’t work at faster speeds as the increase in movement stops the antifoul from sticking. If you don’t use the boat regularly, the paint won’t erode properly so you also need to keep this in mind.
Hemple Tiger Xtra Antifouling is a great all-rounder when you need soft antifoul paint. It’s versatile and long-lasting – two coats will keep you going for an entire season.

Hard Antifoul Paint

This is the best choice for higher speeds (over 28 knots), so it’s perfect for racing vessels and RIB hulls. Hard antifoul releases biocides constantly (the active ingredient in antifoul paint) and it won’t wear off if the hull is scrubbed, so leaving a smooth surface. This also creates minimal drag, which is ideal when speed is essential.
Hemple Hard Racing works well here; it’ll protect your hull and is also suitable if your moorings dry out.

How Should Antifoul Be Applied?

Once your boat is out of the water, check it thoroughly for damage and repair this if you find any. Any existing antifoul must be sanded off if it’s in poor condition. If you’re starting with a bare hull or if you’re covering existing antifoul, you’ll need a primer first. Without it your antifoul will come off the moment you hit the water.
International Primocon Antifoul Primer can be used with all major brands and as a layer over known antifoulings.

Top Quality Marine Supplies and Expert Advice

You Boat Marine is still here to help with all your chandlery needs. Shop all our antifoul paint products here or call us today.