Marine growth and bottom fouling is when sea-life makes a home on the submersed portion of a boat’s hull. The nature of what can grow on a boat’s hull varies widely, and depends on the geographical location of the boat, as well as the salinity of the water. The most common things found growing on boats are algae, plants, and molluscs such as barnacles and oysters.

The build up of marine growth on a hull causes several problems for boats. The additional weight and friction caused reduces speed and fuel economy. Growth can block water intakes for engine cooling systems, causing engine failure. In wooden hulls boring pests can cause holes in the hull that can sink the boat. For these and other reasons it is very important to stop marine growth and fouling on the hull and running gear of your vessel.

To keep fouling to a minimum special coatings are used below the waterline of boats. These coatings are referred to as antifoul. The most effective type of antifoul will depend on the material of your hull, the location your boat is moored, the type of boat, and how often it is used.

Antifoul systems work in a number of ways, but the most common type used on recreational vessels in Australia is chemically impregnated paint. These paints come in different varieties for different purposes. For wooden and fibreglass hulls copper impregnated paint is effective, however copper reacts unfavourably with aluminium, so these hulls require a different product.

Antifoul must have its exposed surface refreshed to keep the active ingredients in the outer layer. The two main types of antifouling paint are self-ablative, which is rubbed back by the action of the water flowing over the hull during regular use, and non-ablative, which must be mechanically rubbed back by hand.

RS Shipwrights provides full comprehensive antifouling applications for all vessel types. Whether you have a power boat, sailing yacht or a high end race yacht, we can advise you on the best system or your situation. We carry and stock a wide range of antifouls to suit any application, and apply these products to exacting standard to ensure their effectiveness.

PROPSPEED

Regular antifouls are not as effective on the underwater moving parts (also known as running gear) of your vessel. This has lead to the development of a special product called Propspeed used exclusively on running gear.

Propspeed™ is a two step process beginning with a 2 part etch primer followed by a silicone based top coat. It is an environmentally safe product and does not contain copper, tin or any other toxic substances which may cause environmental pollution. Propspeed™ is a solution to a problem which has frustrated boat owners and captains for years. Propspeed increases vessel performance, fuel efficiency, requires less maintenance costs, incredibly effective, provides a long service life and contains zero toxic substances.