Bed Liners: Can They Seal Leaks In Aluminum Boats?

There are mixed opinions on using bed liner coating to stop leaks in an aluminium boat. Some people claim that it will not work as a sealant, while others have found success in using it for this purpose. It is recommended that you address any leaks first before applying any coating. There are also alternative products available that are specifically designed to repair leaks in boats, such as Gluvit, Coat-it, and Gluv-it. These products are said to provide a slippery finish that can help with unloading from trailers and sliding over rocks. It is important to note that bed liner coating can add weight to the boat, create additional drag, and be difficult to clean.

Bed liner coating can be used to seal leaks in an aluminium boat

Advantages of Using Bed Liner Coating

Bed liner coating can add traction and create a non-slip surface, which is beneficial for safety. It can also provide some level of sealing and protection for the boat. Some people have found that it holds up well over time, especially in freshwater. Applying bed liner coating can be a DIY project, and there are products available specifically for this purpose, such as roll-on or spray-on bed liner coatings.

Disadvantages of Using Bed Liner Coating

One of the main concerns with using bed liner coating is the potential for separation and leakage. It can be challenging to remove if it starts to flake or chip, requiring a lot of time and effort. Bed liner coating can also add significant weight to the boat, which may affect its performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, it may not provide the desired level of smoothness, resulting in increased drag and reduced speed.

Alternative Solutions

There are alternative products specifically designed for sealing leaks in boats, such as Gluvit, Coat-it, and Gluv-it. These products are often recommended by boaters and can provide a more effective and long-lasting solution. It is also important to address the source of the leak, such as re-bucking or replacing rivets, and using marine-grade sealants like 3M 5200 or silicone caulk.

It is important to fix leaks before applying bed liner coating

Applying a bed liner coating to your boat can be a great option for several reasons. Firstly, it can provide a non-slip surface, making it safer to walk on, especially when the floor is wet. Secondly, it can add some sound deadening properties to the boat, making it a more pleasant and quieter experience when out on the water. Finally, some people also believe that it can help seal leaks and protect the hull of the boat.

However, before applying a bed liner coating, it is crucial to address any existing leaks and properly prepare the surface. Here's why:

Leaks Must Be Fixed First:

The bed liner coating is not meant to be a cure-all solution for leaks. While it may provide some sealing benefits, it is not designed as a primary waterproofing agent. If you apply the bed liner coating over existing leaks, you will have to remove it if you need to fix those leaks in the future, which can be a tedious and time-consuming process. Therefore, it is always recommended to fix any leaks before applying the bed liner coating. This ensures that the underlying issue is addressed, and you won't have to deal with the hassle of removing and reapplying the coating.

Surface Preparation is Key:

Proper surface preparation is essential for the bed liner coating to adhere well and last long-term. This includes cleaning the surface, removing any old paint or coatings, and using the appropriate primer. In the case of aluminum boats, using a self-etching primer or a zinc chromate primer can promote better adhesion and prevent flaking of the coating. Taking the time to properly prepare the surface will ensure that the bed liner coating adheres correctly and lasts for years to come.

Easier Leak Detection and Repair:

If you apply a bed liner coating over existing leaks, it can make it harder to detect and pinpoint the exact location of the leaks. The coating can hide the source of the leaks, making it challenging to identify and repair them effectively. By fixing the leaks beforehand, you can be confident that the boat is sealed, and any future leaks can be more easily identified and addressed.

Weight and Performance Considerations:

Bed liner coatings can add significant weight to your boat, especially if you apply multiple coats. This additional weight can affect the performance and handling of your boat, including increased drag and reduced speed. Therefore, it is essential to consider the weight of the coating and whether it aligns with your intended use of the boat.

Maintenance and Repair Difficulties:

While bed liner coatings can provide some protection to the hull, they can also make future maintenance and repairs more challenging. If the coating starts to flake or chip, removing it can be difficult and labor-intensive. Additionally, the coating may not be compatible with all types of repair materials, further complicating the repair process. By fixing leaks and properly preparing the surface before applying the coating, you can help ensure that future maintenance and repairs are more manageable.

In conclusion, while a bed liner coating can offer several benefits to your boat, it is crucial to fix any leaks and properly prepare the surface before application. This will ensure that the coating adheres well, lasts longer, and does not hinder future maintenance or repair work. Remember, addressing the leaks first and taking the time to prepare the surface correctly will ultimately save you time, money, and headaches down the road.

Bed liner coating can add weight to a boat

While a bed liner coating can be an effective way to protect the hull of an aluminium boat, it is important to consider the potential weight that this will add to the boat. Bed liner coatings, such as Durabak, which is a popular option, can weigh around 11 lbs. While this may not seem like a significant amount, it is essential to factor this into the overall weight of the boat, especially if multiple coats are required.

The weight of a bed liner coating can vary depending on the type of product used and the method of application. For example, Durabak offers a smooth or textured finish, which can be brushed on, rolled on, or sprayed on. The coverage of the coating will also affect the weight, as a thicker coat will naturally weigh more. Additionally, the size of the boat will play a role, as a larger boat will require more coating, thereby increasing the overall weight.

It is crucial to address any leaks before applying a bed liner coating. While a bed liner coating can provide protection and help maintain the hull, it is not designed to stop leaks. If leaks are a concern, there are specific products available, such as Gluvit, which can be used to repair leaks and applied as a barrier coat. By addressing leaks first, you can ensure that the bed liner coating is purely for protection and not as a means to cover up or fix leaks.

When considering a bed liner coating for an aluminium boat, it is important to keep in mind that the weight of the coating can impact the overall performance and handling of the boat. While a bed liner coating can provide protection and enhance the appearance of the boat, it is essential to balance this with the potential weight increase. Ensuring that the coating is applied correctly and evenly is also crucial to avoid any separation issues or future repair problems.

In summary, while a bed liner coating can be beneficial for an aluminium boat, it is important to consider the added weight and ensure that it is used for the correct purposes. By addressing leaks separately, using appropriate products, and carefully applying the bed liner coating, boat owners can enjoy the benefits of protection and a well-maintained hull without solely relying on the coating to fix leaks.

It is hard to clean and can scratch the surface

Applying bed liner to your aluminium boat may seem like a good idea, but it is not without its drawbacks. One of the most significant issues is the difficulty of cleaning and maintenance. Over time, the bed liner can become challenging to clean, requiring a lot of effort and special products to remove dirt, grime, and stains. This is especially true if the bed liner starts to flake or chip, which can happen due to improper metal preparation or adhesion issues.

Another concern is the potential for scratching. The bed liner coating can be very abrasive and rough, which can scratch the surface of your boat, as well as any items that come into contact with it, such as fishing rods, reels, and other equipment. This can not only damage the appearance of your boat but also impact the functionality of your gear.

In addition, the removal process of the bed liner is tedious and time-consuming. If you ever need to repair a leak or want to change the coating, you will have to deal with the challenging task of stripping the bed liner. Commercial aircraft stripper and aggressive wire brushing may be necessary, requiring multiple applications and a significant amount of time and effort.

Furthermore, the bed liner can add unnecessary weight to your boat, potentially affecting its performance and handling. While it may seem like a good idea for added protection, the extra weight can slow you down and impact fuel efficiency.

Overall, while bed liner can provide some benefits, such as a non-slip surface and sound dampening, it is important to carefully consider the potential drawbacks, especially the challenges of cleaning, the possibility of scratching, and the tedious removal process. There are alternative products available specifically designed for boats that may be better suited to your needs and provide a smoother, easier-to-maintain finish.

There are alternative products to bed liner coating, such as Gluv-it, Coat-it, and Stelflex

When it comes to preventing leaks in an aluminium boat, there are a few alternative products to bed liner coating, each with its own unique advantages. Gluv-it, for instance, is an effective sealant that can be used on aluminium hulls to address leaks around rivets and seams. It fills minor cracks and pinholes, and its long working time allows for deep penetration, strengthening the surface. Gluv-it also acts as a barrier coat to reduce water absorption and corrosion.

Coat-it is another alternative product, which is said to be more user-friendly in terms of application. It is suitable for use on boats that operate in rocky environments, such as drift boats, and can help seal leaks and create a slippery finish.

Additionally, Stelflex Super Slick 2000 is an epoxy coating that has been field-tested on airboats in the Florida Everglades. It contains Teflon and additional friction-reducing additives, resulting in a slippery surface that can enhance boat performance.

For those seeking a more visually appealing option, ceramic coatings are also available. These coatings provide a glossy finish that enhances the shine of a boat's gelcoat. While they may not offer the same level of protection as a professional application, DIY ceramic coatings, such as Gtechniq Ceramic Fast Coat, can be applied easily and provide a cost-effective solution for those seeking a shinier boat.

Each of these alternative products offers unique benefits that can enhance the performance and appearance of aluminium boats, providing effective solutions to address leaks and other common issues.

Frequently asked questions