Drift Boat Maintenance: Installing A Bottom

Wooden drift boats are beautiful, but they require a lot of maintenance and are not very durable. If you put a gouge in the bottom of your wooden drift boat, you'll need to thoroughly dry the boat, patch the gouge, and then re-coat the area. For aluminum drift boats, Coat-it, Glovit, and UHMW are popular options for the boat bottom, with Coat-it being the most common. Coat-it is also an option for fiberglass boats, along with UHMW and Slip Plate No. 1.

Repairing a drift boat bottom

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Firstly, it is important to inspect the damage and determine the extent of the repairs needed. Look for any gouges, cracks, or holes in the bottom of the boat and decide on the best course of action.

Step 2: Dry the Boat

One of the most important steps before beginning any repairs is to ensure that the boat is completely dry. This is crucial, as mentioned in several forums, to prevent trapping moisture in the wood, which could lead to further issues down the line.

Step 3: Prepare the Surface

Once the boat is dry, you will need to prepare the surface for repairs. This involves sanding or grinding the affected area to create a smooth surface for the new material to adhere to. Remove any damaged wood or splinters and use a suitable grit sandpaper (60-80 grit is recommended) to rough sand the area. It is also important to remove any existing coatings, such as paint or varnish, from the area to ensure a clean surface.

Step 4: Choose the Right Filler

There are several options available for repairing the bottom of a drift boat. The choice of filler will depend on the type of boat (wood, fiberglass, or aluminum) and the extent of the damage. Here are some commonly suggested fillers:

• Epoxy resin with hardener and wood dust/micro-balloons/fibreglass cloth
• Polyurethane glue with fine sawdust
• Marine-grade epoxy (e.g., System 3) with heavy glass/fibreglass
• Gel coat patching for fiberglass boats
• Bedliner products (e.g., Coat-It, Glovit, Wetlander, Rhino Liner)

Step 5: Apply the Filler

Follow the instructions provided with your chosen filler. For epoxy-based fillers, measure and mix the epoxy resin and hardener according to the specified ratios. Add the filler material (wood dust, micro-balloons, or fibreglass) to achieve the desired consistency. Use a putty knife to fill and overfill the gouge, as the filled area will need to be sanded later. For gel coat patching, clean the exposed fiberglass and use masking tape to create a mould for the gel coat. Apply the gel coat with a brush, ensuring it fills the void. For bedliner products, follow the instructions for application, paying attention to surface preparation and temperature guidelines.

Step 6: Sand and Finish

Once the filler has cured, you will need to sand the area to create a smooth finish. Use medium-grit sandpaper (around 50 grit) to remove any excess filler and create a flush surface. If necessary, apply a second coat of filler and repeat the sanding process. Finally, you can apply a finish coat of paint or varnish to the repaired area, ensuring that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.

Additional Tips:

• If your boat has metal brackets or attachments, you may need to reattach them using layers of bi-axial tape and additional fibreglass cloth, saturated with epoxy.
• When repairing a wooden drift boat, consider coating the interior damaged areas with an epoxy/wood flour mixture to reinforce the structure.
• Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate protective gear when working with chemicals and power tools.
• If you are unsure about the extent of the damage or the best course of action, consult a professional boat repair specialist for advice.

Coating a drift boat bottom

Preparation:

Firstly, inspect the drift boat bottom for any damage. Look for any dents, scratches, or areas where the previous coating may have worn off. If there is significant damage, it is important to repair and smooth out the surface before applying a new coating. Ensure the boat is thoroughly dry, as moisture can affect the adhesion of the new coating.

Choosing the Right Coating:

There are several options available for coating a drift boat bottom, each with its own advantages:

• Coat-it/Glovit: These are popular coatings that can be applied over themselves, making repairs easier. They are known for their slickness and ability to help the boat slide over rocks.
• UHMW: This is a highly durable option that can be applied to various surfaces. It is more expensive but offers excellent protection and a very slick surface.
• Epoxy and Hardener: When mixed together, these create a strong and durable filler that can be used to patch holes and gouges. You can add wood dust, baby talc, or cooking flour to create a putty-like consistency.
• Fiberglass Cloth: Using a cloth with epoxy can add an extra layer of protection and help fill in any large holes.
• Slip Plate No. 1: This is a silicone and graphite-based coating that is extremely slick and durable. It is easy to apply and can be used to touch up small areas as needed.

Application Process:

Once you have chosen your coating, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Here are some general tips:

• Ensure the surface is clean and dry before starting.
• Work in a well-ventilated area and wear protective gear, including gloves and a respirator.
• Use a roller or brush to apply the coating evenly, working in small sections at a time.
• For some coatings, such as Slip Plate No. 1, a second coat may be necessary while the first coat is still curing to ensure proper adhesion.
• Allow the coating to cure completely before launching the boat.

Maintenance and Repairs:

To ensure the longevity of your drift boat bottom coating, perform regular inspections and maintenance:

• Inspect the coating for any wear, tear, or areas where it may be thinning or flaking.
• Touch-ups can be done as needed with small spray cans of the coating or similar products.
• If repairing large areas, follow the steps outlined above for preparing and coating the surface.

Remember to always follow safety precautions when working with any chemicals or coatings, and dispose of any waste responsibly. With the right care and maintenance, your drift boat bottom coating will provide a smooth and durable surface for your boating adventures.

Assessing a drift boat bottom

Inspect for Damage:

Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks, punctures, or abrasions on the bottom of the boat. Pay close attention to areas that come into frequent contact with the water, as these are more susceptible to wear and tear.

Check for Leaks:

Even small leaks can lead to significant problems over time, so it's important to regularly check for any signs of water intrusion. Look for watermarks, discolouration, or soft spots on the bottom of the boat.

Assess the Coating:

The coating on the bottom of a drift boat plays a crucial role in its performance and protection. Inspect the coating for any signs of wear, thinning, or delamination. Common coatings include Coat-It, Glovit, and Rhino liner.

Dry the Boat Thoroughly:

Before making any repairs or applying a new coating, ensure the boat is completely dry. Moisture trapped in the wood can lead to rot and further damage.

Repair or Replace:

If you notice any damage, it's important to address it promptly. For small punctures or cracks, you can use epoxy mixed with wood dust or baby talc/cooking flour to fill and seal the affected area. For more extensive damage, you may need to replace a section of the bottom or seek professional help.

Regular Maintenance:

Establish a regular maintenance routine for your drift boat. This includes cleaning and inspecting the bottom after each use, reapplying coatings as needed, and storing the boat in a dry place when not in use.

Seek Professional Help:

If you're unsure about the condition of your drift boat bottom or the necessary repairs, don't hesitate to consult a professional boat repair specialist. They can provide expert advice and ensure your boat is safe and ready for your next adventure.

Drift boat bottom materials

Drift boats are available in a variety of materials, including wood, aluminium, and fibreglass. The type of material you choose for the bottom of your boat will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some of the most commonly used materials for drift boat bottoms, along with their advantages and disadvantages:

Coat-It

Coat-It is a popular option for drift boat bottoms, known for its slick and hard surface. It contains graphite and Teflon, which make it highly durable. Coat-It is easy to apply and can be purchased at fishing and marine supply stores. However, it may not be the best option for technical whitewater conditions as it may not provide enough slide.

Glovit or Gluvit

Glovit and Gluvit are similar products often used on aluminium drift boats. They help protect the boat and make it slicker, which can be beneficial when navigating over rocks. However, these products tend to flake off over time, especially with frequent use. Gluvit is available at marine shops and can also be used to coat anchor ropes.

UHMW (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene)

UHMW is a highly durable material that can be attached to the bottom of aluminium boats using counter bores and weld washers. It provides a very slick surface and helps maintain the shape of the boat floor. While it may be costly, it is a good option for those who don't want to deal with recoating their boat frequently.

Slip Plate No. 1

Slip Plate No. 1 is a graphite-based coating that can be applied to drift boat bottoms. It is extremely thin, lightweight, and inexpensive. This product is highly slippery, making it easy to launch and load your boat. However, it may not be the best option for guide boats that frequently run over rocks.

Wetlander

Wetlander is a popular option for wooden and metal drift boats. It is known for its superior slickness and durability. Wetlander can be a bit more expensive than some other options, but it is worth considering if you want a long-lasting and low-maintenance solution.

Drift boat bottom maintenance

Drift boats are available in a variety of materials, including wood, aluminium, and fibreglass. The bottom of a drift boat is particularly susceptible to damage, so maintenance is important. The first step in repairing the bottom of a drift boat is to thoroughly dry the boat to ensure no moisture is left in the wood. It is also important to clean the surface and ensure the correct temperature for the best bond and durability of the material.

For wooden drift boats, repairs can be made using epoxy mixed with a hardener and wood dust, baby talc, or cooking flour. The hole can then be filled and sanded before being covered with a suitable product. Some products recommended for this purpose include Coat-It, Glovit, and Rhino liner.

For aluminium drift boats, Coat-It, Glovit, and Gluvit are popular products to coat the bottom of the boat and protect it from damage. These products can be applied by brushing or painting and help the boat slide over rocks more easily. Another option for aluminium boats is to use a spray-on bed liner, such as Rhino liner or Linex, which can provide extra protection but may not be as slippery.

For fibreglass drift boats, repairs can be made using epoxy and fibreglass cloth or matting. The hole can be filled and sanded, and then coated with a product such as Coat-It or Glovit to protect the repair.

Frequently asked questions