Painting the hull above the water line

[tgebler]

Has anyone painted the hull of their boat above the waterline? If so, can you provide any thoughts about such a project.

i was looking at Interlux Toplac Plus Topside Paint. I would like to know the pros and cons. Thanks.

[Cooler]

Kinda depends on your personal goal. Are you interested in having a different color hull for cosmetic appearance? Are you trying to gain some sort of protection to the above water hull? Just trying to "jazz things up"? Before I would start peeling away the gelcoat and prep for painting, I would look into what the graphics guys could do with a wrap of weather resistant vinyl products. There are some amazing products out there. I have had some graphic decals on my vessel for years with no fading or weathering issues. Look for a place that installs graphics on semi-trucks and trailers. I striped my Mustang GT a couple years ago. Paint would would been $2K, tape was $350 installed. I don't drive the beast through car washes, so I'm good with decals. Good luck! er

[Viper]

What is your reason for wanting to paint the hull? Is there something wrong with the gel coat or are you just looking for a different look?

[tgebler]

Thanks for the comments. Has anyone had their boat wrapped? All of the local shops show their work on boats on trailers. I have a 2000 396 aft cabin so they would have to come to me.

[boh50]

Well it assures protection against UV rays and saltwater, so it's a big plus for me.