Coppercoat is a long-life epoxy anti-fouling system designed to be applied in multiple thin coats, creating a durable copper-rich barrier that protects your hull for years. Correct preparation and application are critical to performance, so the process needs to be followed carefully.
Below is a simplified, practical guide split into roller application (painting) and spray application.
Before You Start: Essential Preparation
Good results depend on preparation. Don’t skip this stage.
Start with this: How much coppercoat do I need?
Surface preparation
- Remove all old anti-fouling, paint, grease, dust, and contaminants
- GRP hulls should be sanded (60–120 grit) or professionally blasted
- The surface must be fully keyed and dry
- Do not use solvents (such as acetone) for cleaning
- Aluminium, steel, wood, and ferro-cement must be properly epoxy-primed first
Mixing Coppercoat (Applies to Both Methods)
Coppercoat is supplied as:
- Resin (Pack A)
- Hardener (Pack B)
- Copper powder
Key mixing steps
- Mix Pack A + Pack B thoroughly
- Gradually add copper powder until fully suspended
- Add Iso-Propanol thinner at the start of mixing
- Stir regularly during use to keep copper evenly distributed
Important rules
- Only mix what you can apply in 20–40 minutes (temperature dependent)
- Never add thinner after the mix starts to thicken
- Mix small batches (around 1 litre) to avoid waste
Method 1: Applying Coppercoat by Roller (Painting)
This is the most common method for DIY and yard applications.
Tools needed
- Short-pile mohair or high-quality foam rollers
- Roller trays and mixing buckets
- Protective PPE (gloves, goggles, mask)
Application process
- Apply Coppercoat immediately after mixing
- Use thin, even coats only (do not try to build thickness in one pass)
- Roll in one direction, keeping coverage consistent
- Allow each coat to reach a “tacky” stage before overcoating
Key rules for rolling
- Apply 4–5 thin coats minimum
- Recoat window is usually around 1 hour at 20°C
- All coats must be applied in the same day for proper bonding
- Avoid thick application (prevents sagging and poor cure)
- Keep product stirred between refills to maintain copper suspension
Method 2: Applying Coppercoat by Spray
Spraying is faster on large vessels but requires proper equipment and experience.
Equipment required
- Pressure pot spray system
- Compressor (minimum 3 HP, approx. 15 CFM, 120 PSI)
- Suitable spray gun (e.g. DeVilbiss GTI or equivalent)
- Iso-Propanol thinner for dilution and cleaning
Mixing adjustments
- Thin Coppercoat by 15–20% with Iso-Propanol
- Mix thoroughly before spraying begins
Application process
- Start with test sprays on a flat surface to confirm setup
- Apply multiple very thin coats only
- Build coverage gradually across 4–5 coats
- Allow each coat to reach a tacky stage before the next pass
Key rules for spraying
- Do not rush application - thin layers are essential
- Avoid heavy passes (prevents runs and sagging)
- Keep spray lines short and pressure consistent
- Clean equipment immediately with warm water followed by Iso-Propanol
Curing & Aftercare (Both Methods)
- Touch dry: varies with temperature and humidity
- Full cure: typically around 5 days in UK summer conditions
- Protect from rain for at least 48 hours
- Light burnishing before launch improves initial performance
- Annual wash or light brushing helps maintain efficiency
Key Takeaway
- Surface prep is just as important as the coating itself
- Always apply multiple thin coats, never thick layers
- All coats should ideally be applied in one continuous session
- Temperature and timing directly affect performance
- Proper mixing and constant stirring are essential for even copper distribution
