The 5 best non-skid solutions for on a boat

Safety is of course top priority on your boat. A wet and slippery surface can pose life-threatening situations while sailing. That is why it is crucial that your boat has the right grip on the walkable areas. Fortunately, there are several options to create an effective non-skid layer on your boat. In this article we discuss the most common methods. We explain the advantages and disadvantages of different products and provide detailed instructions for their application. If you have any questions about non-skid, please contact our specialists.

In this article we discuss the 5 most common non-skid options used on boats:

• DD paint with SoftSand
• Coltech Gripelast 
• Gibco Flexmold
• International Interdek
• DD paint with non-skid 

1. DD paint with Soft Sand (recommended)

For optimal non-skid protection on your boat, combine Double Coat DD paint and SoftSand rubber particles. This durable mix creates a rubbery non-skid layer, which is perfect for the bottom or deck of boats. DD paint and Soft Sand guarantee long-term protection, are suitable for all surfaces and can be supplied in any RAL colour.

Instructions for use (application):

You can combine DD paint with SoftSand in two ways. Via the 'Broadcast method' or via the 'Mix-n-Go method'.

• Broadcast method
  With the 'Broadcast method' you first apply the DD paint. Then you sprinkle the rubber granules into the wet paint. After curing, you remove the excess granules and apply one or two additional layers of DD paint for an optimal finish.
  
  
• Mix-n-Go method
  With the 'Mix-n-Go method' you mix the non-skid granules directly into the DD paint. You apply the mix and distribute it evenly with a textured roller. If desired, you can refinish the surface with DD paint for an extra protective layer.

2. Coltech GripElast

Coltech GripElast is a rubber like non-skid coating specially developed for boat decks and cockpits. The 1-component coating is easy to apply with a roller and dries quickly. In addition, the coating is water-based and therefore does not emit a strong odour during processing. After curing, it results in a strong, tough, elastic material that provides excellent grip and is comfortable to walk on.

Instructions for use (application):

You can easily apply Coltech GripElast by taking the following steps:

• Step 1: prepare the substrate
  For optimal adhesion of GripElast non-skid paint, it is important to prepare the surface properly. Therefore, sand the surface with P60-P100 grit sandpaper. Make sure you thoroughly degrease the surface before and after with DD paint degreaser or Natusafe.
  
  
• Step 2: prepare GripElast
  Please check that you have received the correct product and colour before opening the package. Please contact us if you have not received the correct colour. We recommend stirring the Coltech can with non-skid paint thoroughly before use (approximately 2-3 minutes).
  
  
• Step 3: apply non-skid coating
  You can easily apply the non-skid coating with a glue comb with 0.5-2 mm teeth. A thin layer creates a flat non-slip surface, while a thick layer results in a rougher non-slip surface. If desired, the non-skid coating can be diluted with 5-10% water. After application, we recommend rolling the surface with a textured roller specifically selected for this non-skid paint.    
  
  
• Step 4: curing
  After applying GripElast you must allow it to cure properly. The non-skid coating is fully cured after approximately 48 hours. For applications such as cockpit floors, surfboards and longboards, we recommend applying one coat. For heavier loads, such as decks, fishing boats and work boats, we recommend applying two coats. Apply the second coat after 12 to 18 hours, but no later than 24 hours.

Watch the video below in which Kees explains how to apply Coltech GripElast to the bottom of a polyester boat.

3. Gibco Flexmold

Gibco Flexmold is an international manufacturer of non-skid profiles that are often used on polyester boats. These profiles are usually integrated into the mold and are available in various variants. Gibco Flexmold not only offers repair materials for these profiles but also offers solutions for applying them to existing boats. A self-adhesive layer of hardened gel coat is applied to a smooth sanded deck, in which the non-skid profile is incorporated. Gibco Flexmold offers effective solutions for optimizing grip on polyester boats.

*OEM = Original Equipment Manufacturer

Instructions for use (application):

Apply Coltech GripElast by taking the following steps:

• Choose a sheet of gelcoat with a non-skid profile of your choice.
• Make sure the surface is flat.
• Cut the sheets of Gibco Re-Deck non-skid profiles to the correct size. The side can be sanded diagonally with sandpaper on a block or with the Gibco diamond sanding blocks.
• Position the Flexmold in the right place and tape it on one side.
• Turn the Flexmold back halfway and remove a strip of the backing film in the middle. The glue will now appear.
• Stick the Gibco Flexmold strip by strip, starting from the middle.
• Press the entire sheet firmly with a hard roller, from the center to the edges.
• Pay extra attention to the edges.

The deck is now equipped with Gibco Flexmold non-skid!

4. International Interdeck slip-resistant deck paint

Interdeck antislip paint is a tough, slip-resistant boat deck paint that protects the surface from every day wear and tear. It’s easy to apply and is available in grey and white. Its low-sheen finish reduces sun glare. This deck paint is very suitable as non-skid paint for your boat.  

Instructions for use (application):

You can easily apply Interdek non-skid deck paint by taking the following steps:

• Step 1: prepare the substrate
  For optimal adhesion of Interdek, it is important to prepare the surface properly. Therefore, sand the surface with P280-P320 grit sandpaper. Remove the dust with a cotton tack cloth.         
  
  
• Step 2: prepare Interdek
  Please check if you have received the right product and colour before opening the package. Please contact us if you have not received the correct colour. Before use, we recommend stirring the can with non-skid paint thoroughly for approximately 3 minutes.
  
  
• Step 3: apply antislip coating
  Apply 1-2 coats of non-skid paint with a brush or nylon fleece roller.
  
  
• Step 4: curing
  Now allow International Interdek to cure for approximately 4 hours. After 3 days the coating is completely cured and can be walked on.

5. DD paint with non-skid powder

By combining DD paint with DD coat non-skid powder you can easily apply an non-skid layer. You can add the non-skid powder directly to the DD paint for light non-skid properties. Ideal for decking, surfboards and other places where light non-skid surfaces are required.

Instructions for use (application):

You can easily combine DD paint and non-skid powder in the following way:

• Step 1: prepare Double Coat DD paint
  Weigh both components of the DD paint carefully with a scale (67:33, based on weight) and mix thoroughly. Allow the mixed DD paint mixture to pre-react for approximately 30 minutes. If necessary, add approximately 5% brush thinner to improve the application properties of DD paint. 
  
  
• Step 2: add non-skid powder 
  After pre-reaction, add the anti-skid powder to the mixture according to the prescribed ratio on the packaging. Stir thoroughly to ensure that the powder is evenly distributed in the Double Coat.
  
  
• Step 3: apply DD paint with non-skid powder
  Pour the mixed paint into a roller tray and use a foam roller to apply the DD paint. Stir the container regularly to distribute the anti-skid powder evenly. Spread the DD paint as evenly as possible over the surface and smooth it in one motion. 
  
  
• Step 4: curing
  Allow the DD paint to cure properly after application. The paint is dust-dry after approximately 2 hours and fully hardened after 5 days.

More information about non-skid?

All products in this article are available at Polyestershoppen. These are the advantages of ordering from us:

• Expert advice
• Delivery from stock
• Ordered before 5:00 p.m. Dutch time, shipped today

Do you have questions about the products or working methods or can we help you with anything else? Please feel free to contact our specialist customer service. We are happy to help you via live chat, email and telephone!