Tuff Coat Bass Boat Makeover: How Much Do You Need?

Tuff Coat is a high-performance, non-skid coating that can be used to treat and weatherproof a variety of surfaces. One gallon of Tuff Coat covers approximately 40-45 sq. ft. of surface area. It is recommended to use a Tuff Coat Roller for application, and one quart of primer is required for every gallon of Tuff Coat. The coating is ideal for use on boats and docks, and it is resistant to wear, impact, and weather conditions.

Tuff Coat as an alternative to carpet

Tuff Coat is a rubberized non-skid coating that can be used as an alternative to carpet in a bass boat. It is a high-performance coating that can be used to treat and weatherproof a variety of surfaces. Tuff Coat can protect your boat from chemicals such as acids, solvents, fuels, chlorine, and salts. It is also UV-resistant, making it ideal for use in boats.

One of the main advantages of Tuff Coat over carpet is its ease of application. It can be sprayed, brushed, or roller-applied, making it a great option for those who want to do the job themselves. It also has a quick-drying finish that is easy to clean. Another benefit of Tuff Coat is its noise-absorbing properties. This can be especially useful in a bass boat, as it can help to reduce the noise and make your fishing trips quieter.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to using Tuff Coat instead of carpet. Some users have reported that it can get very hot, especially if it is a dark color. It can also be rough on bare feet, so it may not be as comfortable as carpet. Additionally, Tuff Coat may not be suitable for all surfaces. For example, some people have reported issues with Tuff Coat sticking to aluminum surfaces.

Overall, Tuff Coat can be a good alternative to carpet in a bass boat, but it is important to consider the potential drawbacks before making a decision. It is always a good idea to research and weigh the pros and cons of any product before making a purchase decision.

Tuff Coat application process

The Tuff Coat application process is quite straightforward, but it does require some preparation. Here is a detailed guide on how to apply Tuff Coat to your bass boat:

Preparing the Surface:

Firstly, you need to prepare the surface of your boat. If you are working with a metal or concrete surface, you must sand it with 80- to 100-grit sandpaper to remove any old finishes and create a rough surface for the Tuff Coat to adhere to. For other materials, such as wood, sanding is not necessary unless you need to remove old paint, varnish, or sealer. If there are any cracks or imperfections in the surface, fill them with the appropriate filler for the material (e.g., wood putty for wood, concrete for concrete, etc.). Once filled, sand the area again to ensure a smooth finish.

Cleaning the Surface:

After sanding and filling, clean the surface thoroughly with mild dish soap and water or laundry detergent and a scrub brush. Ensure that you remove any oily residue with a commercial degreaser, especially if you are working with a metal surface. For concrete surfaces, you can use a pressure washer to ensure all traces of degreaser are removed. Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding.

Choosing the Right Conditions:

The temperature and humidity play a crucial role in the Tuff Coat application process. Choose a day when the temperature is between 55 and 95 °F (13 and 35 °C), and the humidity is below 80 to 85%. These conditions will ensure that the primer cures properly. For optimal results, work between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to avoid dew or condensation.

Masking Off Areas:

Use masking tape to cover areas that you do not want to coat with Tuff Coat, such as trims and corners. For larger areas, cover them with paper, cardboard, or plastic sheeting, and then seal the edges with masking tape.

Applying the Primer:

Choose a primer that is suitable for the surface of your boat. For concrete, wood, fiberglass, or previously painted surfaces, use the CP-10 Water-Based Epoxy Primer. For bare aluminum or steel surfaces, choose the MP-10 Water-Based Metal Primer. Mix the primer according to the instructions, and then apply it to the surface using a paint roller or paintbrush. Work quickly, as the resin will start to set in about 90 minutes. Allow the primer to cure completely before proceeding.

Preparing the Tuff Coat:

Purchase enough Tuff Coat to cover your boat's surface. You will need 1 gallon of Tuff Coat to cover 40 to 50 square feet, and it is recommended to apply two coats for most applications. Protect your skin, clothing, and workspace, as Tuff Coat is permanent once it dries. Have soap, water, and cloths ready to wipe up any spills immediately. Mix the Tuff Coat with a drill mixer until it reaches a batter-like consistency.

Applying Tuff Coat with a Roller:

Dampen a Tuff Coat paint roller with water, then dip it into the Tuff Coat. Apply 4 to 5 vertical strokes to your surface, dipping the roller into the Tuff Coat after each stroke. Then, roll the roller horizontally across the vertical strokes to distribute the Tuff Coat evenly and create a smoother finish. Continue this process until you have covered the entire surface.

Applying Tuff Coat with a Sprayer:

If you prefer to use a sprayer, fill the spray gun with water first and spray it out to prime the gun. Then, fill the spray gun with Tuff Coat and apply it to the surface from a distance of 12 to 24 inches away. Hold the nozzle at a 90-degree angle and apply a light, even coat. Wipe off any excess Tuff Coat immediately.

Allowing Tuff Coat to Dry and Cure:

After you have applied the final coat of Tuff Coat, whether by roller or sprayer, allow it to dry and cure completely. The surface will be ready for light wear in about 10 to 12 hours, but it is best to wait 24 hours. The Tuff Coat will cure completely after 5 to 7 days.

Tuff Coat maintenance

Tuff Coat is a rubberized non-skid coating that can be used to treat and weatherproof surfaces. It is a UV-resistant coating that protects boating surfaces and employs a nonabrasive, crumb aggregate texture that can be sprayed or brushed on to create a protected, non-skid surface.

Application

Tuff Coat can be applied by spraying, brushing, or rolling. For optimal results, two coats are required. The coating should be applied between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to avoid dew or condensation, with temperatures ranging between 40˚F to 90˚F. When working in cooler temperatures, ensure that the air and surface temperatures remain at or above 50°F for at least 8 hours after application. The first coat takes about 30 minutes to dry at 90°F, 1 hour at 70°F, and 2 hours at 50°F. The second coat will be dry to the touch.

Surface Preparation

Before applying Tuff Coat, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned and degreased to remove all traces of surface contamination. If the surface has been previously painted, the old paint should be in good condition, sanded smooth with 80-grit paper, and solvent-cleaned to remove residue. A coat of Tuff Coat UT-80 Adhesion Primer should be applied before painting. If the old paint is in poor condition, it must be removed before applying Tuff Coat.

Storage

Tuff Coat has a shelf life of 24 months. Due to the high solid's nature of the product, settling will occur in the can or pail. Stir or shake the contents thoroughly to remix any settled material.

Uniform Finish

To ensure a uniform finish and proper dispersion of the rubber granules, it is recommended to use a Tuff Coat roller when applying the coating. In areas too large to roll efficiently, a low-pressure hopper sprayer can be used.

Protection

Tuff Coat provides protection against chemicals such as acids, solvents, fuels, chlorine, salts, and more. It is also non-toxic and environmentally friendly, containing no VOCs.

Tuff Coat durability

Tuff Coat is a highly durable, impact-resistant, non-skid coating that can be applied to a variety of surfaces, including concrete, fibreglass, wood, aluminium, and steel. It is designed to provide an attractive, non-slip surface that is also UV-resistant and protects against chemicals such as acids, solvents, fuels, chlorine, and salts. Tuff Coat is also non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and easy to clean.

The durability of Tuff Coat is enhanced by the use of UV-resistant pigments and stabilizers, which protect against fading and degradation caused by sunlight exposure. The coating is also flexible, which allows it to withstand impact and abrasion without cracking or peeling. The single-component formula is water-based and made from a unique combination of cross-linking urethanes, acrylics, co-polymers, and recycled rubber granules. This formula not only provides durability but also creates an attractive, textured finish that is comfortable underfoot.

The Tuff Coat primer is an important component of the system, as it ensures proper adhesion and enhances the durability of the coating. It is designed to work specifically with Tuff Coat products and creates a long-lasting bond that resists chipping and peeling. The primer is also water-based and non-toxic, making it safe and easy to use.

In terms of coverage, one gallon of Tuff Coat is typically sufficient for 40-45 square feet of surface area. This can vary depending on the texture desired and the method of application, such as spraying or brushing. Proper surface preparation and the use of recommended application tools are crucial to achieving optimal coverage and durability.

While Tuff Coat is known for its durability, it is important to note that some users have reported issues with the product becoming hot, particularly when used in dark colours or in direct sunlight. This can make it uncomfortable for bare feet and may require additional measures to mitigate the heat. Overall, however, Tuff Coat is a highly durable and effective non-skid coating option for bass boats and other applications.

Tuff Coat application tools

To apply Tuff Coat to your bass boat, you will need to use Tuff Coat primers and roller applicators. Tuff Coat is a water-based, non-skid coating that can be applied by spraying, brushing, or rolling.

A Tuff Coat Application Tool Starter Pack can be purchased, which includes:

• 3" Roller (Complete)
• 7" Roller (Complete)
• 3" Roller Sleeves (10 Pack)
• 7" Roller Sleeves (Pack of 10)
• 10" Roller Sleeves (Pack of 10)
• 3" Bubble Buster Paddle Roller
• 6" Bubble Buster Paddle Roller

One gallon of Tuff Coat covers about 40-45 sq. ft. and must be primed with a Tuff Coat Primer before application. The coating is flexible, non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and UV-resistant. It is ideal for use on aluminum, pontoon, house, jon, duck, ski, and bass boats.

Frequently asked questions