Sandpaper and Pads for Hulls

Sandpaper and hull pads are abrasive materials used for smoothing and preparing the surfaces of boat hulls, whether made of wood, fiberglass, or metal. Here's an overview:

🛠️ Types of Sandpaper for Boat Hulls:

1. Dry and water-based abrasives (wet/dry)

   • Useful for sanding between coats of paint or gelcoat.

   • Common grain sizes: from P80 to P800 , depending on the processing stage.

2. Silicon carbide or aluminum oxide paper

   • Carbide: Sharper, ideal for hard surfaces.

   • Oxide: more durable, suitable for prolonged sanding.

3. Abrasive discs on Velcro or canvas backing

   • For random orbital sanders.

   • Used on large surfaces (underwater and abovewater).

🧽 Types of Abrasive Pads :

1. Hand-held abrasive pads (Scotch-Brite type)

   • Used to matt or finish curved surfaces.

   • Useful for surfaces where sandpaper tears easily.

2. Medium or fine grit pads (green, gray, red)

   • Color often indicates grain:

     • Red : medium grain

     • Grey/white : very fine

     • Green : aggressive

⚓ Typical uses in the nautical field:

• Removal of old paint or antifouling

• Preparation for primer, enamel or gelcoat

• Finish between layers for a smooth surface

• Sanding between coats of epoxy resin