Keep Your Aluminum Boat Cool With These Tips

Aluminum boats are popular among boaters, but they can get extremely hot in the sun. This is because the heat of the sun is transmitted by radiation, with energy waves such as infra-red light. As such, the boat's floor can become uncomfortably warm, and the boat's cabin can become stuffy and muggy. To cool down an aluminum boat, there are several methods you can use. Firstly, you can try to keep the boat in the shade as much as possible. Additionally, using a light-coloured cover can help reflect the sun's rays and prevent the boat from absorbing too much heat. Another option is to use a cooling system, such as a misting system or an air conditioner, to lower the temperature inside the boat. Finally, you can also try to increase airflow by using a wind funnel or fans, or by simply cruising to create a cooling breeze.

Paint it white

To keep your aluminium boat cool, one of the simplest and most effective methods is to paint it white. This is because white reflects all visible wavelengths of light, whereas darker colours absorb the light and heat. Even bright colours like reds and yellows can get extremely hot in the sun. So, if you want to keep your boat cool, it is best to avoid these colours.

The sun's heat is transmitted by radiation, with energy waves of heat, such as infra-red light, travelling 93 million miles from the sun to the earth. The sun's rays are then reflected off the water and heat up the hull of the boat. Therefore, it is important to use a paint that will reflect the sun's rays and not just absorb them.

Regular white paint will only reflect some radiation and will not be very effective in keeping your boat cool. Instead, you need to use a super-insulator that is light and thin and will provide a layer of insulation between the boat and your bare feet. A product called Durabak is ideal for this purpose. It is made from a unique polyurethane formula and is used by the US Navy on the decks of their nuclear aircraft carriers. Durabak will not only keep your boat cool but will also protect it from fish guts and inhibit overheating.

Use Durabak

If you're looking to cool down the floor of your aluminium boat, you may want to consider using Durabak. Durabak is made from a unique polyurethane formula that is ideal for boat floors and decks. It will protect your boat from fish guts and inhibit overheating. It is also UV and saltwater resistant, adding flexibility and strength to your boat.

To apply Durabak to bare aluminium, you will need the following:

• 2 stipple roller sleeves per gallon (included with the purchase of a textured gallon) or a short-nap roller, like a 3/16” mohair or similar for a smooth application.
• Metal self-etching primer, such as Zinc Chromate, Zinc Phosphate, or Metcote.
• A stir stick or electric paint mixer.
• A cloth or sturdy cotton rag.
• A household non-chlorinated detergent, like Spic n Span.
• 3M Blue tape (optional).
• A paint respirator (optional).

Before you begin, clean the surface thoroughly with a non-chlorinated household detergent. Next, rough up the surface with 40-grit sandpaper. After that, prep the surface with a metal etch primer. Do not use Xylene or Solvide.

Apply the Durabak within the first third of the primer's suggested overcoat window (for example, for Metcote, this is 4 hours after priming, and for Zinc Phosphate, it is 20 hours after priming). Do not apply immediately after the primer dry time. Do not scuff or wipe down the primer—Durabak goes straight onto it.

Once the surface is prepped, open the can and stir well. Pour a portion into a roller tray and begin application. Roll on the first coat using a Durabak stipple roller sleeve. Use a paintbrush for corners and hard-to-reach areas. Stir occasionally while working with the product. Keep the lid on the can while not in use.

One gallon of smooth Durabak covers roughly 75-80 square feet in a standard 2-coat application. One gallon of textured Durabak covers approximately 60 square feet. Durabak begins to cure when exposed to air, so minimize its exposure while working with it. The consistency of the Durabak should be runny, as it is self-levelling. If it is thicker, you can add up to 15% xylene to thin it.

You will have a few hours of work time once the can is opened (3 to 5 hours normally). A second coat can be applied using a stipple roller sleeve after 1-2 hours, once the first coat is touch-dry. After the second coat is applied, allow 24 hours before walking on it. The complete cure is about 5 or 6 days, so no heavy use until then.

When applying Durabak, be sure to apply moderately thin coats. The temperature should ideally be 60 degrees or above for the application, and above 40% humidity. Xylene should be applied immediately to clean up any misapplied Durabak. If taping off, use 3M Blue tape and remove it immediately after the second coat is applied.

Splash water on the deck

If you're spending a day out on your boat, you'll want to keep cool. The sun's rays reflecting off the water can cause the deck of your boat to get hot, really hot. Luckily, there's a simple, effective hack to cool down your boat's aluminium deck: splash water on it.

When water evaporates, it produces a cooling effect. So, when you splash water onto the deck, the temperature on board your boat will drop noticeably, as will the temperature below deck. You can use a hose or a bucket to do this.

If you want to keep your boat deck cool, you should also consider the colour of your boat. Heat is absorbed more by darker colours, so if your boat is a dark colour, it might be getting too hot. The only colour that does not attract heat is white because white objects reflect all visible wavelengths of light. So, if you want a nice cool boat deck, go white.

If you want to cool down the deck of your aluminium boat, you could also try using a misting system. Misting systems can be attached under a shade structure on your boat and work in a similar way as splashing the deck to lower the temperature on board. They release a fine spray of water into the air to provide evaporative cooling.

Install a misting system

Misting systems are a great way to keep cool on your boat. They work by releasing a fine spray of water into the air, providing evaporative cooling. These systems are easy to install and can be attached to the shower hose or tap on your boat, or connected to a pump.

There are a variety of misting systems available on the market, with a range of features and price points. For example, the 2300 Marine Misting System from Mister-Comfort is an onboard water system that can be easily installed on any size of boat and costs $471. Alternatively, the HAOWIN Portable Misting System, available on Amazon, comes with a water pump, triangle bag, and foldable bucket, making it a great option for those who want a mobile misting system that can be used in a variety of outdoor activities such as camping or hiking.

When choosing a misting system, consider the size of your boat and the specific area you want to cool. Some systems are designed for larger vessels and can cool a wide area, while others are more compact and portable. It's also important to think about the water source for your system and whether you prefer a system that connects to your boat's existing water supply or one that uses a separate water tank.

Additionally, pay attention to the number and placement of nozzles. A higher number of nozzles will generally provide more cooling coverage, but you'll also want to ensure that they are positioned in a way that provides optimal cooling for your particular boat. Some systems also offer adjustable nozzles, allowing you to direct the mist to specific areas.

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as timers, filters, or the option to expand the system with more nozzles in the future. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the misting system that best suits your aluminum boat setup.

Install a shade structure

If your boat does not have a built-in shade, you can install a shade structure to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays. Boat tents are available for additional shade during anchorage, or side panels can be used to extend the coverage of a Bimini. Sheets or tarps clipped to a Bimini or arch can also provide extra protection on sunny days.

Staying under shade coverage as much as possible is essential, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest. A shade structure will not only help keep you cool but also protect you from the sun's harmful effects, such as premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer.

When choosing a shade structure, consider the size and type of your boat, as well as the amount of coverage you need. Make sure the shade structure is securely attached to your boat to withstand windy conditions. Additionally, look for shade structures made from breathable materials to allow for proper ventilation and airflow.

It is also important to maintain and care for your shade structure properly. Regularly clean and inspect it for any wear and tear, and repair or replace it as needed. Taking care of your shade structure will ensure that it lasts longer and provides optimal protection from the sun.

Frequently asked questions