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Boat Paint Calculator
Estimate bottom paint, topside paint, and total project cost
⛵ Advanced marine paint estimator • Accounts for hull type, draft, and coverage rates
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Calculate boat paint quantities and costs — fast, free, no signup
How to Use This Boat Paint Calculator
This advanced marine paint estimator helps you determine exactly how much paint you need for your boat's bottom, topsides, or entire hull. Unlike basic calculators that only use length, this tool accounts for hull shape, beam, draft, and paint type.
Understanding Your Results
- Wetted Surface Area: The actual surface area of your boat that needs painting (based on length, beam, draft, and hull type)
- Gallons Needed: Total paint quantity including waste factor and number of coats
- Paint Cost: Estimated material cost based on your price per gallon
- Total Project Cost: Paint + labor + supplies (primer, thinner, rollers)
Paint Types Explained
- Ablative / Self-polishing: Wears away over time, requires 2 coats minimum. Ideal for boats that stay in water year-round.
- Hard modified epoxy: Durable, long-lasting, typically needs 1 coat. Good for trailered boats or high-speed vessels.
- Topside paint: For above-waterline surfaces. Requires 2-3 coats for UV protection.
- Anti-foul (copper-based): Prevents marine growth. Coverage rates vary by copper content.
Coverage Rate Guidelines
- Bottom paint: 300-500 sq ft per gallon depending on thickness
- Topside paint: 400-600 sq ft per gallon (thinner application)
- Anti-foul: 250-400 sq ft per gallon (higher solids)
Boat Size Reference (Length & Paint Needs)
- 20-25 ft: 1-2 gallons bottom paint (2 coats)
- 26-32 ft: 2-3 gallons bottom paint (2 coats)
- 33-38 ft: 3-4 gallons bottom paint (2 coats)
- 39-45 ft: 4-5 gallons bottom paint (2 coats)
- 46-55 ft: 5-7 gallons bottom paint (2 coats)
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I calculate boat bottom paint area? — The standard formula uses length × beam × draft × hull factor. Displacement hulls have more surface area than planing hulls.
- How much bottom paint do I need for a 28-foot boat? — Approximately 2-3 gallons for 2 coats, depending on beam and hull shape.
- Is 2 coats of bottom paint enough? — Yes, ablative paints require 2 coats; hard paints may need only 1 coat if previously coated.
- What's the difference between ablative and hard bottom paint? — Ablative wears away slowly, releasing biocide. Hard paint remains intact and must be sanded before recoating.
- How long does boat paint last? — Bottom paint typically lasts 1-3 seasons depending on usage, water conditions, and paint type.