Surface Preparation
Every lasting finish starts here
New coatings are only as good as the surface beneath them. Layers of old bottom paint, failed coatings and corrosion cause peeling, poor adhesion and a rough hull. Media blasting removes them quickly and evenly, leaving a clean profile that new coatings bond to.
We match the blasting media and pressure to the surface, whether it is a fiberglass hull bottom or aluminum hardware, so the substrate is cleaned without unnecessary damage.
- Bottom paint and antifouling removal
- Failed coatings and paint buildup
- Aluminum and metal parts stripped to bare metal
- Surface profiling for primers and barrier coats
Aluminum louver panel blasted to bare metal
Start to Finish
From bare metal to a factory finish
A recent project: aluminum overhead louvers stripped, primed and refinished.
01
Blast to Bare Metal
Old paint, oxidation and corrosion are removed completely, leaving a clean, profiled surface.
02
Etch Primer
The bare aluminum is sealed with an etch primer for maximum adhesion and corrosion protection.
03
Refinish & Reinstall
Topcoats are applied and the louvers are reinstalled, looking and performing like new.
Bottom refinish: barrier coat repairs, then fresh black antifouling
Bottom Painting
Protection below the waterline
South Florida’s warm water is tough on hulls. Fresh antifouling keeps growth off the bottom, protects performance and fuel efficiency, and guards the hull against blistering.
- Old bottom paint removal and prep
- Barrier coat repairs and application
- Antifouling paint matched to how you use your boat
- Running gear and waterline detailing
Applications
What we blast & refinish
Media blasting is the fastest, most thorough way to get back to a sound surface.
Hull Bottoms
Years of antifouling buildup removed for a smooth, clean base.
Aluminum Hardtops & Louvers
Oxidation and failed paint stripped to bare metal before refinishing.
Metal Parts & Hardware
Brackets, frames and fittings cleaned of corrosion and old coatings.
Failed Coatings
Peeling or blistered paint systems removed so the new system lasts.
Pre-Paint Profiling
A consistent surface profile for primers and barrier coats to bond to.
Running Gear Prep
Shafts, struts and trim tabs cleaned before new coatings.
Sandblasting FAQ
Sandblasting & bottom paint questions
Not sure if your boat needs a full blast or just a fresh coat? We will take a look.
Will sandblasting damage my fiberglass hull?
Not when it is done correctly. We select the blasting media and pressure for the surface so old coatings are removed without harming the underlying laminate.
Why blast instead of sanding?
Blasting removes thick or uneven layers of old bottom paint and coatings faster and more evenly than sanding, and it reaches into corners and contours that are hard to sand.
Does my boat need to be hauled out?
Yes. Hull and bottom blasting is done out of the water with proper containment. Removable metal parts such as louvers or brackets can be taken off and refinished separately.
What is a barrier coat?
A barrier coat is an epoxy layer applied below the waterline to help protect the hull from water absorption and blistering. It goes on before the antifouling paint.
How often should bottom paint be redone?
It depends on how often you use the boat, where it is kept and the type of antifouling. We will inspect the bottom and recommend the right schedule.
Can you match the original finish on metal parts?
Yes. After blasting and priming, metal parts are refinished to match the original color and gloss, or upgraded if you prefer.
Free Assessment
Start with a clean surface
Tell us about your vessel or parts and where they are. We’ll recommend the right blasting and refinishing plan, with no obligation.
Request a Blasting Estimate
Fill this out and our team will be in touch.