Applying VS721 over Anti-fouling paint on aluminum pontoons

Skipper March 23, 2017 Ask The Skipper

Mike asked:

Does the VS721 work when applied over old bottom paint that is deteriorating (on aluminum pontoons)?

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks in case you want more information about the products.

No. VS721 will not work over existing anti-fouling paint on your aluminum pontoons. You need to strip it first.

VS721 will work on raw aluminum but it works much better over Alumetron, clear coat. Alumetron can last up to 10 years and comes with a 5 year warranty. VS721 is an annual application, but it’s quick and easy; wipe on – wipe off.

The best way to strip off the old anti-fouling paint is to wet sand it with 600 or 800 grit paper. Be sure to sand horizontally, with the grain, otherwise you’ll cut across the grain and the finish will look streaky and strange. After you get the paint off, it’s pretty easy to restore your pontoons back to their original finish with Alumabuff buffing cream. Then you can put on the Alumetron and VS721 over that.

Restoring the finish on your pontoons and protecting them with Alumetron will improve the appearance of your boat and add considerable value when you trade or sell it.

Here’s a link to our Pontoon Calculator which will help you determine the square footage of your pontoons and calculate the products that you will need and the cost to do the job. There are also links to some helpful How To videos.

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar