[Public-List] interior paint

[Don Lang]

Pettit makes a very good water based interior paint (satin white) called dura white that is guaranteed to not  mildew and is formulated specifically for boat interiors. Once cured a good latex paint that is designed for bathrooms, spas, etc won't absorb moisture and cause mildewing. They have been specifically formulated for wet environments and most have good mildew inhibitors in them. Many (such as dura white) don't require sanding of the previous coating even if its a glossy surface. If the existing coating is sound; no flaking or peeling issues, you're good-to-go with a wash (water with a bit of ammonia is recommended to kill any existing spores).
This is an important consideration when prepping old paint surfaces, if the paint is a very old marine paint it may well contain lead and you should not sand it. If you go with an oil based paint be sure to provide good ventilation and wear a very good cartridge respirator. Most oil based paints are enamel and are very hard and durable but tend to be brittle and have issues with cracking and peeling over time. There are also some very good hybrid  blends out there, silicone alkyd enamels, etc, that have been formulated for the marine environment that do very well and have fewer issues with cracking and peeling.
You will pay more for these paints but they last a very long time and give good service.

Cheers,  Don  #473




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