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> I am repainting my boat and remembering by trial and error how to apply a
> good even, non bumpy uniform layer. After putting on one layer, I am
> redoing top. The bottom was not smooth (some unpopped bubbles and other
> minor irregularities). I wetsanded with some very fine grit paper and
> smoothed it out. Not surprisingly, however, the glossy sheen is now gone
> (although it is smooth). I am tempted not to redo it since I don't really
> care what the bottom looks like (it looks good enough), but am just
> wondering if the glossy finish that is not gone serves any functional
> purpose.
> Thanks, Dave Walker
Dave:
The functional value of gloss in paint is to reflect UV which, if not reflected, is absorbed into the paint causing more rapid breakdown of the paint. UV, along with moisture getting under the paint are the only two deteriorating factors I can think of other than contact abuse. Semi-gloss and flat paints on boat hulls do not last as long as high gloss paints. As dark colors absorb more light than light colors, white paint holds up better than say dark blue. If you don't leave your boat out in the sun much however, it is probably not a highly significant factor.
Craig
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Guillemot Kayak - High
Performance Wooden Sea Kayak Designs
