Applying A Perfect Boat Boot Stripe: A Step-By-Step Guide

Adding a boot stripe to your boat can be the final touch that makes it look perfect. A boot stripe is a narrow stripe that runs the length of the boat, usually positioned just above the waterline. It can add a vibrant dash of colour to your boat, giving it a sleek, finished look. It can also make it easier to clean the scum line off a boat that is stored in the water.

There are two ways to add a boot stripe: painting it on or using adhesive-backed vinyl striping. While painting gives you more control over the appearance, vinyl is easier and contains fewer steps.

Choosing the right colour and style

If you opt for painting, you will need to choose the right type of paint. Topside paint is suitable for painting a boot stripe, and there are a few options to consider:

• Duralux Marine Enamel is easy to use, economical, and can be applied to fibreglass without a primer. For aluminium, a primer coat is necessary, followed by two coats of paint.
• Interlux Brightside or Blue Water Mega Gloss are one-part Polyurethane with a high gloss appearance. They are more durable than regular enamels and can be applied to fibreglass or aluminium, but the surface must be prepared properly.

If you choose to go with a vinyl stripe, you will have a range of colours and widths to choose from. Vinyl stripes usually come in 50-foot rolls and can be found in single-colour or multi-colour options. The wider the vinyl, the more difficult it becomes to sweep the stripe upward towards the bow. Most DIYers find that anything wider than an inch becomes challenging to work with.

When selecting the colour and style of your boot stripe, consider the overall aesthetic of your boat and choose a stripe that complements its colour and design. You can opt for a classic, traditional look with a single-colour stripe or go for a more modern and vibrant look with multi-colour stripes. Ultimately, the choice of colour and style depends on your personal preference and the look you want to achieve for your boat.

Scribing a line

To scribe a line, you must first locate the waterline of your boat. This is usually done by applying masking tape or painter's tape along the waterline curve. You can apply successive layers of tape to create a smooth curve that follows the contour of the hull. This tape will serve as a guide for the placement of your boot stripe.

Once you have marked the waterline, you need to determine the desired height of your boot stripe. The boot stripe is typically positioned a few inches above the waterline. You can use a spirit level, sticks, and string to ensure the line is straight and at the correct height.

After marking the waterline and determining the height, apply a faux stripe with masking tape or painter's tape. This tape should be the same width as the vinyl stripe you plan to use. Bracket this tape with two more runs of tape on either side. Then, carefully peel off the middle tape, leaving you with a perfect line for applying your final striping.

This process of scribing a line is crucial as it ensures the boot stripe is straight and evenly spaced. It provides a guide for the application of the vinyl adhesive or paint, resulting in a neat and professional finish.

Cleaning the surface

Before applying a boot stripe, it is important to clean the surface of your boat's hull thoroughly. This step is critical as it ensures that the vinyl boot stripe adheres strongly to the hull.

First, clean, rinse, and dry the boat hull. You can use a boat hull cleaner or a boat-friendly solvent to ensure that any wax coat is removed, allowing the adhesive to stick directly to the hull. You can use a product like Star Brite's Sea Safe Hull Cleaner, which contains a mild solution of oxalic acid, or Marykate On & Off Hull and Bottom Cleaner. Wear gloves and old clothes to protect your skin and clothes from the cleaner. Use a sponge and a clean rag to apply the cleaner to the hull, scrubbing briefly on any tough stains. Rinse the hull with water after cleaning.

Next, use either acetone or MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) and a clean rag to thoroughly dissolve and wipe away any remaining wax, scum, grease, or other contaminants from the specific area where the boot stripe will be applied. Wear protective gloves and change out the rag frequently to ensure effective cleaning. A pristine surface is crucial for strong adhesion.

If you are painting the boot stripe instead of using vinyl striping, additional preparation is required. Sand the stripe area with 220-grit sandpaper, and then remove the masking tape and wipe the area with acetone to eliminate any adhesive residue and sanding remnants.

Applying the stripe

Now that you've chosen your stripe style and colour, cleaned the hull, and masked off the area, it's time to apply the stripe. If you're using adhesive-backed vinyl striping, start by peeling away the adhesive backing 4 to 5 feet at a time, working forward from the edge of the transom. Stretch the vinyl slightly and lightly tap it into place every foot or so, following the masking tape outline. Use a razor to trim the ends of the stripe: the forward end should be parallel to the stem, and the aft end parallel to the edge of the transom. When you're done, carefully peel away the masking tape.

If you're painting the stripe, you'll want to use a paint that's suitable for painting a boat. Some options include Duralux Marine Enamel, Interlux Brightside, and Blue Water Mega Gloss. Make sure the surface is clean and prepared before you start painting. You may need to sand, prime, or use a solvent to wipe down the surface, depending on the type of paint you're using. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Once the stripe is in place, use a flexible plastic squeegee to press down on it and ensure it adheres well to the hull. Work along the entire length of the stripe, starting from the centre and moving outward to squeeze out any air pockets. There will likely still be a few air "blisters" that you can't squeegee away. For these, use a needle to poke a small hole in the bubble and then squeegee out the air.

If you're nervous about messing up, you can spray the surface with water made soapy with a few drops of liquid dish soap. This will delay the adhesion process and allow you to adjust the position of the stripe before squeegeeing out the soapy water.

Squeegeeing the stripe

Choosing the Right Squeegee

Select a flexible plastic squeegee that is specifically designed for marine use. It should have a low profile, rounded corners, and be made of a poly blend material. The size of the squeegee can vary, but a 12-inch or 16-inch option is typically suitable.

Preparing the Surface

Before you start squeegeeing, ensure that the boat's hull is clean, rinsed, and dry. Remove any wax or residue with a boat-friendly solvent. It is crucial to ensure the surface is prepared adequately for the vinyl to adhere properly.

Squeegee Technique

• Start from one end of the stripe and work your way along its entire length.
• Apply firm, even pressure with the squeegee, working from the lateral center of the stripe outward. This will help push out any air pockets that may have formed during the application.
• Pay extra attention to the edges of the stripe, ensuring they are firmly adhered to the hull.
• Once you've squeegeed the entire length, go back and address any remaining air bubbles. Use a needle to carefully pop larger bubbles, and then squeegee out the air.
• For smaller bubbles, simply leave them as they should disappear within a week or two.

Tips for Optimal Results

• Work in a team: Having an extra set of hands and eyes can be helpful. Ask a helper to hold the roll of tape, ensuring it doesn't fall and to provide feedback on the straightness of the stripe.
• Temperature considerations: Avoid extremely cold or hot temperatures during application. Cold temperatures can make the vinyl lack elasticity, while hot temperatures can cause it to stretch too much. Aim for temperatures in the low 70s.
• Avoid windy conditions: Wind can make it challenging to work with the adhesive tape, so choose a calm day for the task.

Frequently asked questions