Boat Maintenance

When Achim and Erica Ginsberg-Klemmt upgraded to an aluminum sloop, they had to confront one of aluminum’s major pitfalls: copper-based bottom paints don’t like aluminum. After years of good performance from a foreign-made, expensive-to-import inorganic zinc-silicate coating called Inversalu, the couple sought an affordable option distributed in the U.S. Their research led them to a PPG Amercoat product, a hard two-part zinc-silicate paint called Dimetcote 21-5. Practical Sailor’s report covers their prep and painting experience, a look at how zonc-silicate paints works, and Dimetcote’s performance after eight months in Florida waters.

Letters to Practical Sailor, May 2012. This month's letters cover subjects such as: US Sailing Report, Tether/PFD Designs, Safety Snap Shackles and More!

Practical Sailor May 2012 Product Updates

Letters to Practical Sailor, May 2012. This month's letters cover topics such as: Sail Rite, Taylor Made, and Inland Marine.

Letters to Practical Sailor, April 2012. This month's letters cover subjects such as: Engine Free, Climbers' Tether Fix, Waterproof Fabric, and More!

Letters to Practical Sailor, April 2012. This month's letters cover subjects such as: ACR, Raymarine, and LCBS.

When we last reported on bottom paint, several manufacturers were introducing new copper-free paints in response to increased pressure from environmental groups and regulatory agencies. Another key trend is a move toward water-based paints with a low VOC. At this point in our tests, results are mixed with many of our newest paints. A full Value Guide detailing the performance of almost 30 new paints at four months; over 50 hard and ablative paints at 14 months; and close to 20 hard and ablative paints at 30 months is included in this month’s report. Paints from Blue Water, Epaints, Pettit, Interlux, and Sea Hawk continue to do well. Find out which ones are top rated for racing sailboats, aluminum hulls, cruising boats, and environmental friendliness.

Letters to Practical Sailor, March 2012. This month's letters cover subjects such as: Durabak Feedback, Inflatable Bottom Paint, US Sailing Reports, and More!

Letters to Practical Sailor, March 2012. This month's letters cover subjects such as: Smart Plug and Forespar.

We generally recommend high-grade, three-strand nylon for anchor rodes because of its cost effectiveness and elasticity—essential under surging loads. Certainly there are more chafe-resistant lines, but using chafe gear is a more sensible way to prevent rode chafe