In the article titled Using Antifouling Bottom Paints, we discussed to the safe and considerate application of bottom paints. Correct hull preparation is essential to the effective application of these bottom paints. Consider following these guidelines for hull preparation, it will safe money, time, improve paint performance and help the environment.
Scraping and sanding of vessel hulls generates material that should be treated as a solid waste. An important consideration in disposal of paint solids is the presence of lead. Lead was used in older paints and is prohibited from disposal in landfills. Modern bottom paints will not contain lead. If you suspect the presence of lead in older paint, proper collection and testing is essential to protecting the environment. Lead contamination can lead to expensive cleanup bills.
Bottom paints by their very design are meant to be toxic. Follow any Manufacturer directions available for proper disposal of their product.
The following guidelines can help you do a better job of preparing your vessel's hull for painting:
Best Management Practices for Hull Scraping and Sanding
It pays to carefully prepare your boat hull for its annual bottom painting. Many boaters paint their hulls in preparation for winter storage. One hint, thoroughly clean your hull immediately after the boat is hauled. Marine growth will be much harder to remove after it dries onto the hull.