Choosing The Right Boat Deck Paint

Choosing the best boat deck paint depends on several factors, including the ease of application, adhesion to the surface, resistance to weather conditions, and traction in wet and dry conditions. The paint should also be water-resistant and durable, without peeling or cracking.

Some popular options for boat deck paint include TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint, KiwiGrip Non-Skid Deck System, Rust-Oleum Marine Topside, TUFF Coat UT-100 Non-Skid Coating, and Interlux Interdeck Slip-Resistant. These paints offer varying levels of durability, traction, and resistance to weather conditions and usually come in a range of colours.

Water-resistance

Tuff Coat UT-100 Coating

Tuff Coat is a water-based, single-component paint that provides a durable, attractive, and impact-resistant surface. It is designed to be non-submersible and can hide significant imperfections on deck surfaces. Tuff Coat is also UV and chemical-resistant, and can be applied by roller or spray. It is available in 15 colours and is suitable for metal surfaces, fibreglass, and previously painted deck surfaces.

TotalBoat TotalTread Deck Paint

TotalBoat is a slip-resistant coating that creates durable high-traction surfaces. Its polyurethane resin is mixed with texturing agents to achieve a less abrasive surface. TotalBoat is easy to apply and is available in several colours. It requires two coats for the best combination of durability and grip.

Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint

Rust-Oleum is an oil-based paint that offers gloss retention, UV resistance, and durability in extreme weather conditions. It creates a flexible, durable coating that resists abrasion and protects against corrosion and mildew. Rust-Oleum also offers superior gloss retention and a smooth finish. However, it tends to create a mess and is hard to clean up due to its oil-based formulation.

KiwiGrip Non-Skid Deck System

KiwiGrip is a water-based acrylic coating that is easy to apply and creates a customizable texture. It does not require fillers like sand or rubber fleck, and is loaded with a UV stabilizer for protection against the sun's glare. KiwiGrip is available in five colours and can be applied to wood, fibreglass, epoxy, concrete, and metal surfaces.

Interlux Interdeck Slip-Resistant Deck Paint

Interlux is a slip-resistant deck paint that contains fine mineral additives for hard-wearing and non-slip surfaces. It has a low-sheen finish to reduce sun glare and includes fine aggregates that make it easily applicable to all substrates. Interlux requires a minimum of two coats and takes a few days to cure.

Evercoat Skid-No-More Rubberized Non-Skid Coating

Evercoat is a non-skid coating with a non-abrasive, elastic, and resilient formula. It can be applied to fibreglass, wood, metal, or concrete surfaces using a paintbrush, roller, or squeegee. Evercoat can be tinted using colour agents and provides an excellent alternative to non-skid tapes. However, it can be messy during application and may not last as long as expected.

Slip-resistance

Non-skid compound (the gritty stuff that keeps you from slipping) can be mixed into the paint or applied in between coats of paint. The latter method involves applying the first coat of paint and, once it becomes tacky, "broadcasting" the non-skid compound over the paint. After the paint dries, the excess non-skid compound is brushed off and a second coat of paint is applied.

Some paints have the non-skid compound already mixed in, such as Tuff Coat™ Rubberized Non-Skid Coating, Interdeck® Nonskid Paint, EZ Decks Nonskid Deck Paint, and Intergrip No Skid Compound Paint Additive. These paints are available in a limited number of colours.

If you want a wider range of colours to choose from, you can purchase a one-part or two-part polyurethane paint and the non-skid compound separately. This allows you to create a non-skid surface in your desired colour.

When it comes to performance, some paints are better at providing grip than others. For example, the DIY sand and sugar non-slip coatings performed very well in a test by Practical Boat Owner, but they retained dirt and would make a boat look scruffy very quickly. Kiwigrip, a paint that can be applied in two different ways to achieve different levels of grip, was deemed the best buy. However, it is quite expensive. A close second was Sandtex Fine Textured Masonry Paint, which is a fraction of the price.

Other non-slip boat deck paints that have been recommended by boat enthusiasts include Durabak 18, Interlux Interdeck, and TotalBoat TotalTread.

Ease of application

• Surface compatibility: It is important to choose a boat deck paint that is compatible with the surface you will be painting, such as fiberglass, wood, metal, or previously painted surfaces. Some paints adhere well to multiple types of surfaces, while others are specifically designed for certain materials.
• Preparation and priming: Before applying boat deck paint, it is essential to properly prepare the surface. This may include cleaning, degreasing, and sanding the surface to create a smooth base for the paint to adhere to. In some cases, a primer may also be necessary to improve adhesion.
• Application method: Boat deck paints can be applied in different ways, such as brushing, rolling, or spraying. Some paints may be better suited for one application method over another. For example, the KiwiGrip Non-Skid Deck System includes a roller for easier application, while the TUFF Coat UT-100 Non-Skid Coating can be applied with a spray, brush, or roller.
• Number of coats: The number of coats required will vary depending on the product and the desired level of traction. Most boat deck paints require at least two coats, with some products recommending three or more coats for greater durability and traction.
• Drying and curing time: The drying and curing time will vary depending on the product and the environmental conditions. Most boat deck paints will be dry to the touch within a few hours, but it is recommended to allow 24 hours or more for the paint to fully cure before walking on it or exposing it to water.
• Customisation: Some boat deck paints offer customisation options, such as the ability to mix colours or add a tint to match the desired colour. This can be helpful if you want to achieve a specific look or match the paint to your boat's existing colour scheme.
• User reviews: Reading user reviews can provide valuable insights into the ease of application of a particular boat deck paint. Look for reviews that mention the application process, including the number of coats applied, drying time, and the overall ease of use.

By considering these factors and reading reviews from other boat owners, you can make an informed decision about the best boat deck paint for your specific needs, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process.

Durability

Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint

This paint is praised for its durability and protection. One reviewer attests that it has lasted five years on their Jon boat, with only minor fading. It offers excellent protection against sun and moisture damage and is easy to apply. However, it has a strong smell, which can be mitigated by adding vanilla extract.

TotalBoat Wet Edge Marine Topside Paint

This paint is described as long-lasting, with a smooth flow that doesn't require much thinner. It self-levels, and the manufacturer recommends applying thin coats. It dries within a day in optimal weather and provides excellent protection and a high-gloss, marine-grade finish. However, it recommends xylene as a thinner, which can be hard to find.

TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint

This paint is described as long-lasting and easy to use and apply. It offers excellent traction and a smoother finish than most non-skid varieties, making it more comfortable for barefoot walking. It usually requires two coats and takes about two days to dry.

KiwiGrip Non-Skid Coating

This coating is praised for its durability. One reviewer attests that it has lasted two years on their center console, maintaining its finish even with exposure to torrential rains and heavy sunlight. It is easy to apply and doesn't have a strong smell. However, it is relatively expensive, and coverage per container is limited.

Liquid Rubber Smooth Polyurethane Coating

This coating is described as durable, with one reviewer stating that it has outperformed other brands in terms of durability. It is easy to prep and use and offers excellent coverage. It is also available in a range of attractive colours. However, it is quite expensive per gallon.

TUFF Coat UT-100 Non-Skid Coating

This coating is described as extremely durable and heavy-duty. It offers superb colour options and a great-looking finish. It is water-based, environmentally friendly, and safe for health. However, it is quite expensive compared to other options.

Pettit Paint EZ-Decks

This paint offers superior protection against all harmful elements and is recognised for its incredible durability. It provides a non-skid finish and a weatherproof finish that resists fading due to UV exposure. It is easy to use and apply, but it is a little expensive and requires a minimum of two coats for the best results.

LR Liquid Rubber Smooth Polyurethane Deck Sealant

This sealant offers superior performance and is user-friendly and easy to apply. It provides a solid and hard water-resistant surface with excellent UV stability. However, it doesn't provide a smooth finish, and it is quite expensive.

Evercoat Skid-No-More Rubberized Non-Skid Coating

This coating is described as resilient and soft. It can be applied to metals, previously primed surfaces, fiberglass, concrete, and wood. It works well for industrial surfaces and can be colour-tinted. However, it tends to deteriorate quickly and can be messy to work with.

When choosing a boat deck paint, it is important to consider the type of paint, such as one-part polyurethane, two-part polyurethane, rubberized, or textured paint. The paint should also provide ultimate protection, durability, and slip resistance. It should be easy to apply and maintain and should be available in a range of colours to suit your preferences.

UV-resistance

When choosing the best boat deck paint, it is important to consider UV-resistance, especially if you plan to spend extended periods in the sun. UV-resistant paint will not only protect your boat's surface but also maintain its colour and vibrancy.

The TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint is a good option for those seeking a UV-resistant formula. Its unique one-component polyurethane formulation is designed to be durable and resistant to fading, cracking, or peeling. The paint's UV-stable formula ensures that colours remain vibrant, even with prolonged sun exposure. This paint is suitable for use on various surfaces, including fiberglass, wood, and previously painted surfaces.

Another option for UV-resistance is the Rust-Oleum Marine Topside Paint. This paint offers long-lasting UV protection and is compatible with multiple surfaces, such as fiberglass, wood, and metal. It is oil-based, making it easy to apply, and it dries quickly, usually within 2 hours.

The TUFF Coat UT-100 Non-Skid Coating is also worth considering for its UV-resistant properties. This eco-friendly, water-based paint is safe to use and offers excellent UV and chemical resistance. While it requires multiple coatings, it provides extreme durability and enhanced water resistance.

For those seeking a paint that can withstand harsh marine conditions, the KiwiGrip Non-Skid Deck System is a good choice. Its UV-stable formula ensures that colours remain vibrant and do not fade quickly. This paint can be used on a variety of surfaces and is easy to apply with the included roller.

Frequently asked questions