Wax or bottom coat first?

[marks737]

Just curious if you guys wax the boat first or paint the bottom first if it needs it prior to launch?

 

[mjmason1]

This year I did wax first, only because it came out that way. Since my muscles hurt like hell, I wish I painted first. May should have waxed a little, paint a little.

 

[K-DUB]

I always wax first. No mater how hard you try, you end up with wax on the bottom paint. I like the fresh paint look without white wax residue embedded in it.

 

[PMC]

I always wax first. No mater how hard you try, you end up with wax on the bottom paint. I like the fresh paint look without white wax residue embedded in it.

That is how I do it as well.


To the OP, you need to read the paint directions, and determine if you have the time to paint first. I've seen paints that have a narrow window of time where it must see water.

 

[Gofirstclass]

I waxed and bottom painted two coats on Beachcomber when I hauled her last October.

I also did the wax first and that's when you find out just how much 'real estate' there is on a boat. 3 long days to wax it then 4 long days to do the bottom paint.

When I finally got done I thought my muscles were never going to speak to me again unless it was in a very loud and painful voice.

 

[rondds]

You guys need to premedicate. 400mg ibuprofen 1 hour before start. Works wonders for minimizing post-operative pain.

 

[Air O'Nautical]

Funny, maybe I do it backwards.

I paint first, let it dry for a day then wax.
I don't want any wax on my paint line because, the paint won't stick as well if there's wax on the hull.
I actuality wipe it down with acetone first to remove the wax.

What ever works..

 

[marks737]

Thanks for the input guys. I think I'll paint, then tape off the paint line prior to waxing to avoid getting wax on it.

 

[ziekman@cox.net]

Thanks for the input guys. I think I'll paint, then tape off the paint line prior to waxing to avoid getting wax on it.

That's what I've always done. Good luck with it, and let us know how you do.