Topcoats!

[Kythoni]

So, on a steel boat, what is the concensus on topcoats?
I'm thinking along the lines of an epoxy based paint system along the lines of International and Blakes' offerings, for topsides/deck/coachroof etc and something "tough" for below the waterline. Dont worry about antifouling, i've got that covered with my current boats!!! (amazing what a few tablespoons of chilli powder will do!)

I am looking for that "gelcoat" look, and as I am no painter, expecting HUGE bills from a painting contractor.

Nearly forgot, fillers?? whats the best for "filling and fairing"?

Thank you in advance

[mastcolin]

Epoxy finishes are not going to give you a gelcoat finish. Well, maybe tired looking gel.

Epoxy looks fine on Fawley refinery but they chalk in sunlight and will start to show surface cracks with time.

The plus is they are hard wearing and cheapish.

Fillers? You're best to stick with a system. If you have a problem with brands the manufacturers will point finger at each other and you'll end up with the bill.

Mix your own filler may be cheaper option. International sell resin, I think distributors of Blakes and Awlgrip in Uk will give you guarantee using SP resin with respective paints.

You seem to be suggesting you're going to get painter in to do job. Most of them have their favoured system. Let them give you a price with their scheme. (we're not expensive. We do work at appropriate price to reflect our skills and effort - I'll do you price if you bring it across to NL. If we are good enough for Jongert and Huismanns, we could manage )

International do 'industrial' polyurethanes. These aren't as glossy as the top of range materials but are a lot cheaper and have UV resistance.

Get yourself a dry and hopefully warm location. You'll need it for 2 part in Southampton from Oct-Mar. (the 'dry' part you need 12months a year!). The fillers won't cure below about 15C to any great extent. Below 10 and they will stay cheesy forever. If you overcoat this, you'll get problems later.

Best of luck