Section 01
Introduction & Safety
This guide is designed for the professional applicator. Read the entire guide carefully — especially safety sections — before applying any product. SDS documents must be reviewed before applying any Awlgrip product. Always use Awlgrip-specified thinners, converters, and additives only. Substitution can void the Awlgrip Limited Warranty.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and Technical Datasheets (TDS) are available on awlgrip.com. For urgent health/safety concerns, refer to contact information on the Awlgrip product label.
- Use only with adequate ventilation — maintain continuous flow of fresh air
- Do not breathe vapors, spray mists, or sanding dusts
- Wear a properly fitted supplied-air respirator during and after application
- Use solvent-resistant safety eyewear, gloves, clothing, and boots
- Isocyanate-containing products require suitable respiratory protective equipment
Never incorporate any thinner, additive, modifier, converter, primer, or related product not specifically recommended by Awlgrip into any Awlgrip Coating System. Such substitution can jeopardize the unique characteristics of the system, resulting in poor cosmetics and/or premature failure — and will void Awlgrip's Limited Warranty.
Section 02
Surface Cleaning
A clean, dry surface is essential to any successful coating application. Up to 12 pre-paint process steps have been identified. Not all steps are required for every project, but this checklist helps minimize defects caused by contamination.
1
Assess
Check for ceramic coatings, chemical compatibility
2
Sand
Sand stage — clean work area first
3
Wash
Optional wash with detergent + water
4
Rinse
Fresh clean water only
5
Dry
Lint-free cloths + clean compressed air
6
Solvent Clean
Two Cloth Method with OT0340 or OT0170
7–8
Cover
Plastic sheeting if anti-dust used
9
Final Wash
Fresh water + solvent wipe if plastic used
10
Alcohol Wipe
Optional OT0008 to remove stubborn contamination
11–12
Tack
Compressed air + Awlgrip Deluxe Tack Rags (#73009)
- Vacuum or blow off all dust with clean, dry compressed air using cotton cloths
- Soak Cloth 1 in wipe-down solvent (EU: OT0340 / NA/AP: OT0170) — wet the surface
- Use Cloth 2 (dry) to wipe surface dry and lift contamination
- Work small areas (~10 sq ft) to prevent solvent drying before the second rag wipes clean
- Change rags frequently. Repeat until surface is residue-free
- Surface must be completely dry before using tack rags
Use only Awlgrip Deluxe Tack Rags (#73009) for primer and topcoat surfaces. Other tack rags can leave residue that causes fisheyes and cratering. Use light pressure only — let the resin do the work. Surface must be completely dry before use.
| Product | Code | Region | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Awlprep Surface Cleaner | OT0008 | Global | Fast-evaporating; before/after sanding; removes moisture |
| Awlprep Plus | OT0115 | NA / AP | Removes waxes, oils, greases. Pre-sand only — not on fresh primer/topcoat |
| Awlprep 400 | OT0170 | NA / AP | 5× slower than OT0008; ideal for large areas in hot weather |
| Surface Cleaner | OT0340 | EU / MEA | General purpose; before/after sanding primers and topcoats |
| International 600 Wipe Down Solvent | ITA075 | EU / MEA | Removes waxes, oils, sanding residue |
Masking & CoveringDo not cover fresh paint with plastic. Wait for second cure cycle (72–96 hours at 77°F/25°C) before covering. Plastic on for maximum 2 days only. Never use newsprint — it can stain the paint finish.
Section 03
Spray Gun Setup
Ten Steps to Success: Good quality equipment · Standardize guns on the job · Clean gun/hoses/air · Check environment · Choose correct reducer · Determine optimum gun setup (3-step fan check) · Synchronize settings · Record settings · Spray a test area · Work well within pot life.
| Product | Gun Type | Tip Size (mm) | Fluid Flow | Atomizing Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Build Epoxy Primer | SATAjet 1000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 1000 K RP Pressure | 2.0–2.5 / 1.5–2.0 | 170–260 ml/min | 1.8–2.0 bar / 2.0–2.5 bar |
| Ultra Build | SATAjet 1000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 1000 K RP Pressure | 1.8–2.5 / 1.7–2.0 | 200–250 ml/min | 1.8–2.0 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| 545 Epoxy Primer | SATAjet 1000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 1000 K RP Pressure | 1.0–1.3 / 0.8–1.1 | 180–280 ml/min | 1.8–2.0 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| Awlquik | SATAjet 1000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 1000 K RP Pressure | 1.3–1.6 / 1.1–1.4 | 180–280 ml/min | 1.8–2.0 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| Awlgrip HDT | SATAjet 5000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 3000 K RP Pressure | 1.1–1.2 / 0.8–1.1 | 250–300 ml/min | 2.0–2.3 bar / 2.0–2.5 bar |
| Awlcraft 3000 / 2000 | SATAjet 5000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 3000 K RP Pressure | 1.0–1.2 / 0.8–1.1 | 250 ml/min | 1.8–2.3 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| Awlgrip Topcoat (G/H Line) | SATAjet 5000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 3000 K RP Pressure | 1.0–1.2 / 0.8–1.1 | 250 ml/min | 1.8–2.3 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| Hullgard Extra | SATAjet 1000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 1000 K RP Pressure | 1.8–2.5 / 1.5–1.7 | 250–300 ml/min | 1.5–2.0 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| Quick Build Sealer | SATAjet 5000 RP Gravity / SATAjet 3000 K RP Pressure | 1.0–1.3 / 0.8–1.1 | 200–250 ml/min | 1.8–2.2 bar / 1.8–2.5 bar |
| Product | Gun Type | Air Cap | Tip Size | Fluid Flow | Atomizing Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Build Epoxy Primer | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE20 / TE40 / 522 | 1.4 / 1.6 / 1.4 | 260 ml/min | 1.85 L / 1.85 S / 2.2 L |
| Ultra Build | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE40 / TE20 / 522 | 1.6 / 1.8 / 1.6 | 200–250 ml/min | 1.85 L / 1.9 S / 2.0 L |
| 545 Epoxy Primer | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE40 / TE20 / 520 | 1.0 / 1.2 / 1.0 | 220 ml/min | 2.0 L / 1.9 S / 2.2 L |
| Awlgrip HDT | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE40 / TE20 / 520 | 0.85 / 1.2 / 0.85 | 250–300 ml/min | 1.9 L / 2.0 S / 2.3 L |
| Awlcraft 3000 / 2000 | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE40 / TE20 / 520 | 1.0 / 1.2 / 0.85 | 250 ml/min | 1.9 L / 2.0 S / 2.3 L |
| Awlgrip Topcoat (G/H Line) | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE40 / TE20 / 520 | 0.85 / 1.2 / 0.85 | 250 ml/min | 1.85 L / 1.9 S / 2.25 L |
| Hullgard Extra | Pro Lite Pressure / Pro Lite Gravity / Advanced HD Pressure | TE40 / TE20 / 522 | 1.8 / 2.0 / 1.8 | 250–300 ml/min | 1.95 L / 2.0 S / 2.3 L |
| Product | Gun Type | Air Cap | Tip Size | Fluid Flow | Atomizing Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Build | W 200 Pressure / W 400-BA Gravity | G2P / O2 | 1.6 / 1.8 | 400 ml/min | 3 Bar / 2.25 Bar |
| Ultra Build | W 200 Pressure / W400-BA Gravity | K2 / O2 | 1.6 / 1.8 | 350 ml/min | 1.7 Bar / 2 Bar |
| 545 Primer | WS 200-FT Pressure / WS 400 Gravity | O1 / O1 | 1.0 / 1.2 HD | 300 ml/min | 2.5 Bar / 2 Bar |
| Awlgrip HDT | WS 200 SP Pressure / WS 400 Gravity | O1 / O1 | 1.0 / 1.2 HD | 300 ml/min | 2.5 Bar / 2 Bar |
| Awlcraft 3000 / 2000 | WS 200 SP Pressure / WS 400 Gravity | O1 / O1 | 1.0 / 1.2 HD | 250 ml/min | 2.5 Bar / 2 Bar |
| Awlgrip Topcoat | WS 200 SP Pressure / WS 400 Gravity | O1 / O1 | 1.0 / 1.2 HD | 250–300 ml/min | 2.5 Bar / 2 Bar |
| Hullgard Extra | W 200 Pressure | K2 | 1.6 | 300 ml/min | 3 Bar |
| Awlquik | WS 200-FT Pressure / W 400-BA Gravity | O1 / O2 | 1.0 / 1.4 | 280 ml/min | 3 Bar / 2 Bar |
HVLP Note
Low Atomizing Power
HVLP impacts how a coating behaves. Consult your Awlgrip rep and gun manufacturer before using HVLP for high-gloss topcoats.
Airless Use
High Viscosity Only
Traditionally used with high-viscosity Awlgrip products. Air-assisted airless possible for low-to-mid viscosity products.
Air Pressure
Measure at Handle
Atomizing pressure must be measured at the handle of the spray gun with the trigger pulled.
Fluid Lines
No EPDM
Do NOT use EPDM rubber fluid lines with Awlgrip products. Use solvent-resistant lines only. EPDM dissolves into the paint causing greasy/oily surface defects.
Roll-and-TipHigh Build Epoxy Primer and several other Awlgrip products are NOT recommended for roll-and-tip application. Spray equipment required.
Section 04
Primer System Guide
D8002/D9002
High Build Epoxy Primer
Two-component epoxy surfacer for high build and filling. Above waterline only. Best over Awlgrip primers and fairing compounds.
Epoxy Surfacing
OD8008
Ultra Build
Two-component epoxy primer sealer for high build and filling above the waterline. Excellent build capacity with print-through resistance.
Epoxy Surfacing
OD6120
Hullgard Extra
Epoxy holding primer for fiberglass, steel, aluminum, and wood. Above AND below waterline. Perfect base for fairing compounds.
Above + Below WL
OD8001
545 Epoxy Primer
Multi-use, corrosion-resistant epoxy primer. Seals undercoats and surfacing primers. Above and below waterline on wide range of substrates.
Above + Below WL
OD8003
Awlquik
Quick-drying, medium build, easily sanded two-component epoxy primer/surfacer. Apply by brush, roller, or spray.
Epoxy Undercoat
OD1030
Epoxy Surfacing Primer
Specialized two-component epoxy primer for high filling. Intermediate primer over surfacing fillers above waterline.
Intermediate
OU Series
Quick Build Sealer
High-performance urethane priming system. Six colored bases to closely match any finish. Can be applied without sanding before topcoating.
Urethane
OD6600
Wash Primer CF
Chromate-free etch primer with Controlled Fusion technology. Excellent adhesion to stainless steel and anodized aluminum. Above waterline only.
Etch / CF Tech
OR4330
Max Cor CF
High-solid two-component epoxy primer for aluminum and steel. Chromate-free with Controlled Fusion for extended recoat times.
Metal Substrate
| Primer | Mix Ratio | Induction | Pot Life @25°C | Min Recoat (Self) | Max Recoat |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Build (D8002/D9002) | 1:1 with D3002 | 15 min | 8 hrs | 2 hrs | 24 hrs |
| Ultra Build | 1:1 with OD3018 | 15 min | 8 hrs | 1 hr (self) | 24 hrs |
| Hullgard Extra | 10:1.5 with OD3730 | None | 8 hrs | 16 hrs | 6 months |
| 545 Epoxy Primer | 1:1 with OD3001 | 15 min | 16 hrs | 1 hr (self) | 24 hrs |
| Awlquik | 1:1 with OD9001 | 15 min | 8 hrs | 2 hrs (self) | 24 hrs |
| Max Cor CF | 2:1 with OR3300 | None | 2 hrs | Do not recoat itself | 72 hrs (other) |
| Quick Build Sealer | 4:1:1.5 | None | 5 hrs | 5–15 min (self) | 7 days |
| Reducer | Code | Temp Range | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epoxy Primer Spray Reducer | OT0006 | All temps | 545, High Build, Ultra Build, Awlquik, Hullgard |
| Ultra Build Reducer | OT0073 | All temps | Ultra Build only |
| VOC Exempt Reducer (NA) | OT0176 | 21–32°C / 70–90°F | High Build (VOC-compliant option for North America) |
| Brush/Roller Reducer | OT0031 | 16–32°C / 60–90°F | 545, Awlquik brush applications |
Section 05
Sanding Guide
Proper sanding promotes adhesion for the next coat. Excessive sanding or too-coarse grit can open pores or create a scratch profile too deep to be filled by the next product — causing porosity holes or sand-scratch print-through.
1. Scratch Sanding
Profile for adhesion
Scuffs/scratches a smooth surface to promote adhesion. Scotch-pad may be used to remove light overspray. Sandpaper recommended over Scotch-pad alone between topcoats.
2. Smooth Sanding
Remove orange peel
Sands surface smooth of orange peel or fine texture. Fine grits with small blocks or machines. Not considered fairing.
3. Block/Board Sanding
Fairing
For fairing a surface. The depth of highs and lows determines block size and amount of filler/surface products needed.
4. Grinding
P24–P60
Removal of material — brightening corroded metal, removing old coatings, heavily oxidized or damaged gelcoat. Prime metals immediately after grinding.
Section 06
Substrate Guide
| Substrate / Scenario | Suitable Direct Awlgrip Primers |
|---|---|
| Aluminum (No fairing) | Wash Primer CF, Max Cor CF, Hullgard Extra, 545 Primer |
| Aluminum (Fairing required) | Max Cor CF, Hullgard Extra |
| Anodized Aluminum | Wash Primer CF, Hullgard Extra, Quick Build Sealer, 545 Primer |
| Steel / Stainless (No fairing) | Wash Primer CF, Max Cor CF, Hullgard Extra, 545 Primer |
| Steel (Fairing required) | Max Cor CF, Hullgard Extra |
| Composite (Bare Laminate) | Hullgard Extra |
| Gelcoat (Good condition) | Hullgard Extra, Ultra Build, High Build, Quick Build Sealer, Quick Build Surfacer, 545 Primer, Awlquik |
| Gelcoat (Fair condition) | Hullgard Extra, Ultra Build, High Build, Quick Build Surfacer, 545 Primer, Awlquik |
| Gelcoat (Poor condition) | Hullgard Extra, Ultra Build, High Build, Quick Build Surfacer, Awlquik |
| Gelcoat (Fairing required) | Hullgard Extra, High Build |
| Previously Painted (Good) | Hullgard Extra, Ultra Build, High Build, Quick Build Sealer, Quick Build Surfacer, 545 Primer, Awlquik |
| Previously Painted (Fair/Poor) | Ultra Build, High Build, Quick Build Sealer, Quick Build Surfacer, 545 Primer |
| Previously Painted (Fairing required) | Hullgard Extra, High Build |
| Epoxy Fillers / Fairing Compounds | Ultra Build, High Build, Epoxy Surfacing Primer |
| Timber (Solid Paint System) | Hullgard Extra, High Build, Awlquik, 545 Primer |
| Timber (Brightwork System) | Awlwood Primers, Awlspar |
- Clean and degrease using detergent + pressure washer
- Solvent wipe with Awlgrip wipe-down solvent
- Sand entire surface P60–P80 to ensure profile is achieved
- Vacuum + compressed air blow-off + solvent clean
- Prime with approved substrate primer
- Clean and degrease
- Sand P150–P220 to ensure profile is achieved
- Vacuum + blow-off + solvent clean
- Prime
- Remove all cracks and crazing by grinding P36–P60
- Heavy crazing must be fully removed back to sound substrate
- Sand entire surface P60–P80
- Do not grind GRP laminate unless also damaged
- Avoid water-based cleaners if exposed fibers are present
Gelcoat CautionEnsure no glossy areas remain after sanding — this causes adhesion issues. When grinding crazed gelcoat, ensure substrate is structurally sound before filling. Re-lamination may be necessary if structurally compromised.
- Clean and degrease with detergent/pressure washer
- Solvent wipe with Awlgrip wipe-down solvent
- Sand P180–P220 to ensure surface profile is achieved
- Vacuum + blow-off with clean, dry compressed air
- Prime within 8 hours — if exceeded, sweep blast or clean-up grind required
- Blast with aluminum oxide to 50–75 micron (2–3 mil) profile, OR
- Grind with P36–P60 power disc to bright, clean aluminum (50–75 micron profile)
- Metal must be bright silver, completely free of grey oxidation
- Do not use steel wire brushes — ineffective and causes corrosion
- Prime within 8 hours
Do Not Use Rags on AluminumSharp metal will snag cloth fibers which act as wicks for moisture, leading to premature coating failure.
- Plan carefully — blasted/ground areas must be primed within same work shift (within 8 hours)
- Remove all weld spatter; smooth off weld seams; round sharp edges to minimum 2mm radius
- Grit blast to SSPC-SP10 (SA2.5) to 50–75 micron / 2–3 mil surface profile, OR grind with P36 disc to bright steel
- Consider testing for soluble salt concentration before blasting
- Prime immediately after blasting
HydroblastingHydroblasting is NOT acceptable where filled and faired paint systems are used. If used, surface must be abrasive sweep blasted prior to substrate primers.
Before proceeding on any previously painted surface, perform these three checks:
- Cross Hatch Adhesion Test
- Solvent Resistance Test
- Coating Compatibility Test
Consult your Awlgrip rep for full details. On metal boats, bare metal exposed by sanding must be primed with substrate primer before other primers or fillers.
| Condition | Sand |
|---|---|
| Excellent condition — topcoat change only | P320–P400 (remove all gloss) |
| Fair or Good — No fairing | P120–P180 |
| Poor condition — No fairing | P80 machine sand to remove all damaged coating |
| Fairing required (Fair/Good) | P60–P80 or sweep blast back to sound epoxy primer |
| OEM Powder Coat — No fairing permitted | P180–P240 (remove all gloss) |
Timber must be clean, dry, smooth, and well seasoned. Moisture content must be below 14%. Never paint wet or green timber — this causes blistering and/or detachment.
- For weathered/greyed timber: DA or block sand P80 aggressively to bright, uniform grain. Use wire brush to clean grain if necessary
- Ensure timber is back to original color tone throughout
- Any cracks: epoxy fill or spline with similar timber before sanding
- Round off all edges and radius — no sharp corners
- Vacuum thoroughly with brush attachment (3 passes: along, across, along grain)
- Final sanding no finer than P120 (unless specified by TDS)
- After final degreasing — handle only with clean gloved hands
Timber CautionsAvoid teak cleaners before painting — oxalic acid residues impede curing of primers and topcoats. If saturated with salt water, scrub well with fresh water first to remove salt deposits.
Section 07
Application Environment
55°F / 13°C
Minimum Ambient
Below 55°F (12°C) curing process stops entirely
105°F / 41°C
Maximum Surface
Do not apply to surfaces warmer than 105°F
+5°F / +3°C
Above Dew Point
Surface must be at least 5°F above dew point
Cycle 1
24 Hours
At 77°F / 25°C, 50% RH. Masking tape can be applied for boot lines. Remove tape immediately after application.
Cycle 2
72–96 Hours
Film becomes much harder. Abrasion and chemical resistance develop. Minimum for covering.
Cycle 3
14–21 Days
All physical properties fully develop. Coating is not complete at Cycle 2 — full service performance requires full cure.
Recoat times specified at 77°F/25°C will double for every 3°C / 5°F the temperature drops below 25°C / 77°F. Below 12°C / 55°F, the curing process stops.
Moisture on the surface before the first cure cycle completes can cause: overall gloss loss, flat spots, rough/grainy surface, blistering, and water spotting. Avoid applying topcoats when rain, dew, fog, or condensation may contact the paint within 6–8 hours of application at standard conditions.
Condensation WarningCondensation occurs when air becomes completely saturated and temperature drops below dew point. At 77°F / 50% RH, avoid applying topcoats if the temperature could drop below dew point within 6–8 hours of application.
Section 08
Paint Defects — Causes & Effects
Adhesion Failure (Cohesive)
Splitting of a coating layer within itself. Common with epoxy primers with higher talc content. Over-application leads to internal splitting.
Key CausesHeavy/over-application · Incorrectly catalyzed · Solvent entrapment · Contaminated air supply
Adhesion Failure (Intercoat)
Separation of a coat from the previous coat or substrate.
Key CausesMissed overcoat window · Poor surface prep · Incompatible coatings · Contamination (grease, oils) · UV deterioration
Amine Bloom
Waxy or greasy appearance, possibly with yellow/amber tint, on amine-cured epoxy products. Includes all epoxy primers and clearcoats.
Key CausesHigh humidity/moisture · Low curing temp · Incorrect mix ratio · Too-slow solvent choice
Chalking / Bleaching
Discoloration and damage to topcoat causing color change and gloss reduction. Often begins in high UV or heavily cleaned areas.
Key CausesAggressive cleaning · Teak cleaners/brighteners · Topcoat DFT too thin · Buffing polyester urethane · UV degradation
Cracking
Splitting of dry paint film from hairline to deep cracks. Can involve topcoat and undercoat.
Key CausesExcessive film thickness · Overcoating too quickly · Hard paint over soft · Substrate movement or flex · Aged antifouling
Cissing
Wet paint unable to fully wet-out the surface — visible immediately after application or shortly after.
Key CausesGrease/wax/polish contamination · Silicon contamination · Incompatible solvent · Insufficiently mixed paint
Craters
Circular recesses 0.5–3mm diameter, ranging from flat recess to deep fault reaching substrate.
Key CausesExcessive solvent/WFT · Particulate contamination · Air velocity too high causing rapid surface drying
Dry Spray
Fine dry atomized spray droplets stuck to surface or not absorbed by paint film. Dry and grainy appearance.
Key CausesAtomizing pressure too high · Solvent too fast · Air velocity too high · Gun too far from surface · Temp too high
Fisheyes
Small spot with absence of paint (holiday), occasionally encircled by a ring of thicker paint. Caused by surface contamination.
Key CausesGrease/wax/teak dust on substrate · Insufficient degreasing · Ceramic or silicon-based product residue
Orange Peel
Surface texture resembling orange skin. Can be a natural characteristic — not always a defect.
Key CausesIncorrect gun setup/settings · Insufficient/wrong solvent · Over-catalyzation · Temp too high · Air velocity too high
Pinholes
Small or microscopic holes in the paint surface, often only visible once a gloss coat is applied. Impossible to bury with liquid paint — require surface filling.
Key CausesPorous substrate not fully sealed · Craters from previous solvent popping · Buried contaminations (e.g. ceramic coating residuals)
Solvent Pop
Blister-like surface defects from solvent entrapment. Rapid solvent release through the paint surface. Can lead to pinhole issues.
Key CausesOver-reducing · Over-application/excessive WFT · Wrong reducer · Air velocity too high causing fast surface skin-over
Runs / Sags
Paint from upper portion drips/flows down on vertical surfaces, creating a tear-like appearance.
Key CausesOver-thinning (low viscosity) · Incorrect gun setup (tip too large) · Too much paint applied · No catalyst in paint
Waterspotting
Light, whitish circular spots from drying of mineral salt/water solution. Inner areas intact, outer edges slightly raised.
Key CausesMineral deposits in rain/sea/cleaning water left to dry · Detergent residues baked on · Acid cleaners · Dry acid deposition
Wipe Marks
Visible residue from cleaning solvent not effectively dry-wiped from substrate before painting. Can migrate through coating over time.
Key CausesPoor wipe-down process · Dirty/unsuitable cleaning solvent · Not changing rags enough · Rushing the process
Telegraphing
Showing through of sand scratches, wipe marks, fingerprints, water spots, or tape marks from underlying layer. May appear days/weeks/months later.
Key CausesSanding grade too coarse · Missing critical paint layers · Insufficient correction of underlying defects · GRP not post-cured
Loss of Gloss
Matting or haziness of the coat. A broad term — identify more precisely (hazing vs chalking) to determine cause.
Key CausesHigh humidity/low curing temp · Low DFT (thin finish) · Aggressive cleaning · Abrasion/wear · Covered before full cure · Water contact during cure
Dimples
Single defect or clusters — surface disruption, rarely through to previous layer. Typically from contamination to paint before application.
Key CausesAirline/compressor oil · Dirty spray gun or pot · Dirty cleaning solvent · Underlying pinhole telegraphing · Spray gun spitting
Section 09
Maintenance & Repair
Washing
Awlwash 2.0 / Awlwash
Use with soft, non-abrasive cloths. Always rinse thoroughly with fresh water after. Wash during cool hours — paint softens in Florida heat.
Protection
Awlcare (#73240)
Polymer sealant. Apply by hand only — never machine. Apply every 2–6 months depending on UV exposure. Not for use on Awlcraft CS.
Topcoat Stain Removal
Mild Solvents Only
Awlgrip HDT/Topcoat: OT0008, OT0115. Awlcraft 3000/2000: mineral spirits, xylene, kerosene. Wipe up quickly — do not let pool.
Water Spots
Distilled Vinegar
Distilled white vinegar + hot water removes stubborn salt stains or Type 1 water spots. Follow with Awlwash 2.0 rinse.
- No traditional waxes — break down rapidly, leave yellow residue, attract dirt
- No abrasives/scratch pads on Awlgrip Topcoat (G Line) — voids Awlgrip Limited Warranty
- No teak cleaners near paint — acids/caustics stain and discolor Awlgrip topcoats
- No metal polishes drying on surface — acids in polishes etch and dull the finish
- No strong solvents (lacquer thinner, MEK, acetone) on Awlcraft 3000, Awlcraft 2000, Awlbrite Clear, or Awlspar
- No shrink-wrapping tightly against paint — traps moisture, causes gloss loss and blistering
- No Teflon coatings over Awlgrip — voids warranty
- No wet equipment (cushions, sail covers) trapping moisture against topcoats
| Product | Buffable/Polishable | Repairable | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Awlgrip HDT | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes (true repair) | Combines hardness with repairability. Blending possible with OT0195. |
| Awlcraft 3000 | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | Same Repair Topcoat Blender OT0195 system applies. |
| Awlcraft 2000 | ✓ Yes (certain colors) | ✓ Yes (certain colors) | Fast-drying; good in dusty environments. |
| Awlgrip Topcoat (G Line) | ✗ No | ✗ No | Gentle orbital cleaning only. Do not buff with abrasive compounds. |
| Awlcraft CS | ✗ No | ✗ No | MUST NOT be buffed, polished, or protected with Awlcare. |
1
Prep
Clean, degrease, Two Cloth Method (OT0170/OT0340)
2
Sand
P400 (repair area), P800 (beyond), P1500 (further out)
3
Apply HDT Color
Cover P400 area. 2 coats (3 for some colors). Full opacity required.
4
Clear Coat
HDT Clearcoat OC0300 over color, extending to P800 area
5–7
Blend
50:50 Clear/OT0195 blender over P1500. Then neat OT0195 to blend edge into existing finish.
Once cured, HDT can be buffed to further blend. Do not wet sand the blended area. Use the same tip/aircap throughout — reduce air pressure and fluid feed for blending steps.
Section 10
Applying Awlgrip in Florida
???? The Florida Applicator's Reality
Florida's heat, humidity, intense UV, and marine air create unique challenges for every stage of the Awlgrip coating process — from surface prep through to cure. The guide's standard conditions (77°F / 50% RH) are rarely what you'll find on a Florida boatyard in July. Plan accordingly.
???? Best Application Window
6–10 AM
Surface temperatures rise rapidly in Florida sun. Early morning gives you cooler surfaces, lower humidity, and maximum pot life. Never spray in direct noon sun on a dark hull.
???? Dew Point Critical
Check Every Morning
Surface must be 5°F above dew point. Florida summer mornings near water often have 80%+ relative humidity. Always check — don't assume.
????️ Pot Life Reduction
Mix Smaller Batches
The stated 8-hour pot life for High Build is at 77°F. On a 95°F Florida day, this shortens significantly. Mix pint batches in summer. Discard and mix fresh rather than push a batch.
☀️ Surface Temp
Max 105°F
A dark gelcoat hull in direct Florida sun can easily hit 130–140°F. Tent the work, shade it, or apply very early. Surface temp is just as critical as ambient temp.
???? Reducer Selection
OT0005 for Florida Heat
Use OT0005 Hot Weather Reducer for application at 90–105°F. Often blended with OT0003. At 90°F+, OT0005 combats solvent popping. For primers: OT0006 or OT0176 (VOC-exempt, NA only).
???? VOC Compliance
Check Your County
South Florida counties (Miami-Dade, Broward, Palm Beach) may enforce stricter VOC limits than other regions. Use OT0176 (VOC Exempt) with D3002 for High Build to keep mixed VOC under 340 g/lt.
????️ Recoat Planning
2 Coats Per Morning
High Build's 2-hour self-recoat window means two coats are achievable in a single cool morning session. Plan your schedule around the weather — Florida afternoons can be unreliable.
???? Cure in Heat
Faster — But Watch It
Higher temps accelerate curing — cycles happen faster than the standard 77°F spec suggests. This means covering paint is also safe sooner, but so is the risk of runs/orange peel if application is too slow or too wet.
???? Fiberglass Florida — Your Local Awlgrip Authority
Fiberglass Florida is dedicated to being Florida's most complete resource for Awlgrip coatings — from product selection through application, defect diagnosis, and repair. All content is based on official Awlgrip Application Guide Edition 22 (AkzoNobel). For products, TDS documents, and current SDS sheets, always refer to awlgrip.com.
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