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How to Prepare a Drag Boat Hull

You can prepare your drag boat hull by powerwashing it. Powerwashing is good for removing blisters, oil film and old paint from some hulls. However, preparation for painting or adding a barrier coat can require a stronger method to remove surface debris. Using a technique called sodablasting removes layers of paint and gelcoat. Sodablasting is a high-powered stream of sodium bicarbonate (the material used for upset stomach) directed against the boat hull. It is considered an efficient way to prepare the boat hull for repainting or adding a gelcoat by removing all existing paint.

Things You'll Need

Sodablasting machine
Protective gear (face mask and gloves)
Moisture meter
Barrier coating

Instructions

- 1
  Rent or purchase sodablasting equipment and materials from a supplier or directly from a manufacturer. Some manufacturers provide training if you need it. You may also choose to have it pressurewashed at a boat yard right after you pull it from the water.
- 2
  Prepare to remove paint and debris. Put on your protective gear. This step is needed only if you are sodablasting the hull.
- 3
  Follow the sodablasting machine manufacturer instructions to blast the hull with sodium bicarbonate to remove materials.
- 4
  Measure the moisture level. Once the hull is smooth, use the moisture meter to check for trapped moisture. If you don't know how to read a moisture meter, you can get information at pbase.com/mainecruising/moisture_meter.
- 5
  Prepare for the barrier coating. Dry the hull thoroughly by air or use fans and heaters to speed up the drying process.
- 6
  Apply the barrier coating according to the manufacturer's instructions. Reading the instructions thoroughly will allow you to have all the necessary materials required to apply the coating available and ready to use. This will avoid curing problems.

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