Sanding Antifoul

[ChrisH]

My antifoul is looking in a sorry state , and now I am on a drystack this year I want to tidy it up.
To be honest it really needs to all come off at some point, there are many layers I think, but I just want to tart her up for this season.

Whats the best way to sand the top layer to get a good key and remove any potential loose stuff.
I have an electric sander. Just any old sandpaper? or do I need wet and dry ?
Do I need a mask, if so how good a one do I really need?
thanks

[Ianfs]

Hey Chris

I think if you just want to tidy her up and not go back to gel coat then a simple sand with 50 & 80 grit would work depending upon what sort of sander you have. I think an orbit disc sander, not the type used on an electric drill though, would work well and give an even finish. You can get non clogging sandpaper which is really good from Screwfix. But start with a test area first to see how much it is going to take off or whether you need a heavier grit.

Absolutely you must wear safety gear, I believe anti foul is basically a poison, a simple one but just the same the copper oxide is dangerous is breathed in. Again go to Screwfix and see what they have to offer, they seem to do a good one for about £22.

[shibbs]

Hi Chris,
I’ve not a huge amp my of experience with taking anti foul off, I use eroding type so with very little prep after a good jet wash I’m good to re apply each year, this has worked well for me without build up for over 5 years now.
With regard to getting it off, I’ve done some reading but no doubt someone else will be along with more advice. As I understand it though..
There is antifoul remover on the market that you apply, it does it’s job and is then rinsed off. With regard to sanding, I do know that you have to be very careful with this, antifoul is extremely toxic when rubbed down dry, the dust is very dangerous, so, either do it wet, or get hold of some very good masks and eye protection or get in the processionals.
I also know that it is a horrible job, if it were me, this is definitely one of those jobs I would consider paying someone to do, just for the time saving and the hassle the job brings.
Good luck with it though.
Ps, my boat is down at your yard that the moment, I will be down there Saturday afternoon if your about to say hello.

[MartynG]

I recently prepared and repainted my antifoul
viewtopic.php?f=26&t=1360

Bear in mind antifoul paint is highly toxic -
Dry sanding was very effective but messy . I did wear a mask but had some doubts about safety . So I changed to wet sanding which was also very messy and hard work as it had to be done by hand - but safer as no dust created . Still wear suitable clothing including a mask and safety glasses and preferably a hat .

[ChrisH]

Thanks all. Appreciate the advice. My sander is like one of those vibrating ones. Not too big. Designed for doing your window frames and stuff.
Last years antifoul was eroding. So I think in will get a mask and goggles and do a quick light drysand. Just to key it and take off any dodgy bits.
Stuart, so your stored at Southampton dry stack right now?

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk

[shibbs]

Stuart, so your stored at Southampton dry stack right now?

Yes, but only while some work is being carried out.

[shibbs]

Stuart, so your stored at Southampton dry stack right now?

Yes, but only while some work is being carried out.

[ChrisH]

You'll see my Hardy Seawings on a maintenance stand facing the carpark. Probably has no out drive on it. And filthy dirty by now.

Waiting for Tompa to put the engine and drive back in

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk