R23 Vinylester Barrier Coat

[DocJoe]

I have a used 2019 R23. It has the factory installed vinylester barrier coat. The original owner did not apply any anti-fouling paint. The original owner apparently stored the boat in the water (brackish waters of Ft. Lauderdale, Fl). IE, no bottom paint over the factory vinylester barrier coat.

My boat has now been out of water stored on trailer for 3 months. It will soon be stored on a boat lift out of water. The local waters are brackish (Pamlico Sound and River, NC).

My question is, as I prepare to launch for the first time, there are white spots all over the hull where barnacles were removed (white against the black barrier coat). Close inspection indicates these are not blisters, but residuals of the barnacles remain. Should I have the hull professionally sanded, soda-blaster, or what?

Then, should I have the barrier coat re-applied?

Lastly, should I have anti-fouling paint applied, inasmuch as the boat will be stored on a lift and only used for day trips, and rinsed with fresh water after each daily use?

Thank you, you advice is much appreciated.

Joe

PS. We LOVE the boat!!

 

[Gypsy]

Joe,
Take a look at Pettit's Vivid bottom paint. It is recommended for boats that are stored on lifts and trailers. Also, I would not go to the trouble and expense of sanding the bottom. Just paint over what you have with the Vivid and I think you will be a happy camper.

 

[DocJoe]

THANK YOU SIR!

 

[scross]

There are bottom coats like Pettit’s Vivid that will work with the boat being trailered or on a lift.
For prepping the surface I’d first try CLR or Lime Away to get rid of as much of the barnacle residue on the gelcoat as possible. Don’t use CLR or Lime Away on anything metal though!
Then I’m afraid you will need to do some additional work prior to applying the bottom paint.
Next is dewaxing and cleaning the gel coat surface with something like Pettit Bio-Blue.
Then scuff sand the gel coat with 80-100 grit just enough to get a rough surface then rinse clean and let dry.
Good luck!

 

[DocJoe]

Roger that, Captain. Thank you!