How long does antifouling last?

There is no universal service life for antifouling. Product, applied film thickness, cruising area, fouling pressure, time afloat, speed and maintenance together determine when renewal is needed.

Self-polishing antifouling

Self-polishing products erode during use. If sufficient film thickness remains, the surface stays active in a controlled manner. A contrasting first coat can act as a wear indicator: when it becomes widely visible, the working layer above has been consumed. Repeated coats without inspection are still unwise; loose or uneven layers must be prepared or removed.

Hard antifouling

The hard matrix largely remains on the hull. A visible colour layer therefore does not prove that sufficient activity remains. Assess fouling, surface condition and product requirements. Cleaning and sanding may be required before recoating.

Biocide-free systems

Eroding, hard and silicone foul-release systems have different service lives and maintenance requirements. Seajet 021 EKO is built up seasonally, Seajet 2300 is for trailer boats that are regularly hauled out and cleaned, and Bioclean Eco is a complete multi-coat system.

Signs that require action

• significant or unusually early fouling,
• worn-through areas or a visible control coat or primer,
• cracks, blisters or flaking,
• damage to hull, rudder or propulsion components,
• exceeding a product-specific standing or launch interval.

Distinguish normal film consumption from an adhesion problem. Loose layers must be removed back to a sound system.

Plan instead of relying on an annual rule

Annual inspection is sensible and seasonal maintenance is common, but it is not a fixed rule for every system. Record product, colours, coat number and application date. The configurator explains the recommended system, and the quantity calculator accounts for area, coverage and coat number.