AkzoNobel’s guide to Fall boat restoration for Great Lakes Boaters
Published: Saturday, November 1, 2025 10:00 am
As summer draws to a close and the crisp air of fall begins to settle in, it’s an ideal time to consider inspecting your boat and addressing any repair needs. Across the Great Lakes, fall offers a natural break in the boating season, which makes it a great time to take care of upgrades and restoration work before winter.
Whether you want to preserve a family heirloom, refresh the look of your boat, or simply increase its value, starting a restoration project now means your boat will be ready to launch next summer.
Begin by washing the hull with a good detergent to remove dirt, salt, and grime. Then, inspect your boat carefully. Look at the hull, engine, electrical systems, and interior to identify any issues.
If the paint is flaking or showing wear, you will need to remove old coatings before repainting. For a complex restoration, consider hiring a professional.
But if you enjoy hands-on work and want to improve your boat’s performance and appearance, follow the steps below to get started.
Repairing and finishing above the waterline
The paint or gelcoat above the waterline protects your boat. Keeping this layer of protection in good condition helps prevent moisture from getting into the structure beneath.
Painting over gelcoat in good condition
Clean the surface with Interlux® Fiberglass Solvent Wash 202 using the two-rag method. Wipe first with a solvent-soaked rag, then again with a dry rag while the surface is still wet. Sand the surface with 80 grit sandpaper to create a smooth finish and help the next layers adhere.
Wipe everything down again with a cleaner such as Awlgrip® Awlprep® 400 (T01070) to remove sanding dust and light contaminants. To fix any pinholes, apply Watertite filler using a trowel, spatula, or putty knife. Once cured, sand the filler with 80 grit sandpaper.
Apply Pre-Kote Plus to protect and prime the surface. Once dry, sand with 320 grit and wipe again using the two-rag method with Awlprep 400 (T01070). After the cleaner has dried completely, apply Toplac Plus with a roller for a durable and glossy finish with strong UV protection.
Painting over existing paint in good condition
Clean with Interlux® Fiberglass Solvent Wash 202 using the two-rag method. Sand the current paint with 320 grit to improve adhesion. Clean again with Awlprep 400 (T01070) and allow it to dry completely before applying Toplac Plus.
Tip: Refer to the Technical Data Sheet for each product to check recommended coat numbers, drying times, and application guidance.
If you prefer professional results without the hands-on work, Awlgrip also offers top-tier products developed for expert use above the waterline.
Repairing and finishing below the water line
Inspect the hull to assess current fouling control. Look for signs of osmosis, such as blisters that may release a vinegar smell. If blisters or paint flaking are present, you must remove the old paint and properly prepare the surface.
Applying fouling control paint over gelcoat in good condition
Clean with Interlux® Fiberglass Solvent Wash 202 using the two-rag method. Sand with 80 grit and clean again. Once dry, apply Interprotect® 2000E with a 3/8 inch lint-free roller to form a protective barrier against moisture and blistering.
After applying the final coat of Interprotect, perform the Thumb Print Test. If you can press your thumb and leave a print without getting paint on your finger, apply your fouling control paint the same day to achieve chemical bonding. If you miss this window, sand the surface again before painting.
Interlux® offers a wide range of fouling control paints, including multi-season Micron® CSC, which provides reliable protection against most types of fouling.
Applying over existing fouling control paint in good condition
Power wash and sand with 80 grit. Blow off debris with clean air. For problem spots, use Interlux® Fiberglass Solvent Wash 202 and sand again. Once clean and dry, apply your preferred fouling control product. If changing brands, check the compatibility chart. Primocon® can be used as a bonding primer in many cases.
Tip: Always consult the Technical Data Sheet for full application details, including the number of coats to use and the timing between them.
Fall is the perfect time to take care of boat restoration. Whether you want to do it yourself or bring in a pro, getting it done now means less hassle in spring and more time on the water next season. For product information, technical advice, and expert recommendations, turn to AkzoNobel’s trusted Interlux® and Awlgrip brands to get the job done right.
About AkzoNobel
Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world-class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens, and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company dedicated to providing more sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.
For more information, please visit www.akzonobel.com.
tags: AkzoNobel, Antifouling Paint, Awlgrip, Boat Maintenance, Boat Restoration, Boating Tips, Fall Boating Projects, Hull Repair, Interlux, Marine Coatings
