I looked back through my subscribed threads and didn't see that I had asked it before. I'm getting closer to wanting to re do my decks.
My 7m Willard currently has a 3M product called "Safety-Walk Slip-Resistant Tapes". It's the "coarse" level of grit (700 Series). The stuff is made for wearing combat boots while on it. I can't even kneel on it without ripping up my knees. Not to mention, it's black and really hot when barefoot. The non-skid is peeling up and I'll need to either replace it or put down something else.
A new set of tape, in grey this time (for a cooler underfoot temperature), is ~$350 (thank you johndoe007 for the research on this).
Other options include flowcoat or paint with non-skid particles added, or some sort of roll-on truck bed liner.
Non-skid Particles:
http://www.awlgrip.com/MPYACMDatashe...8+A+eng+A4.pdf
I actually have a can of these sitting around from another project I didn't ever start.
Flowcoat:
Seems very popular here on rib.net. For some reason, it's not very popular on other boating forums that I read here in the US. Why? I would think that it's going to be much more durable than paint (even Awlgrip). Cost of a gallon of flowcoat, ~$85 USD.
Paint:
Many people use Alwgrip or other paints. I have no desire to us Awlgrip as the stuff is ridiculously expensive and hard to repair (i.e. you have to have left over or buy more).
A couple of people have used RustOleum Marine Topside Paint (
RustOleum.com) which is a "oil modified alkyd enamel" with good results. $12/quart
There are also many paints that are in-between in price.
DIY Truck bed liner style:
Durabak (
Roll On Bed Liner) $120/gallon
Kiwi Grip (
Kiwigrip Home) $150/gallon
Durability, ease of application, looks, and price play into this. I want it to be functional (grippy but not too grippy) and it to look good.
The cheapest option would be something like a Rustoleum with non-skid particles. But, how long will this last? Also, as with any of the options that require mixing particles, I'm worried about an even finish and making it look good.
The most expensive option would be ordering a new set of grey 3M tape (pre-cut for the shape of my boat). While it will be cooler on my feet than what I currently have and it will be the most durable, I still think it's too rough.
I actually like the Durabak stuff - seems easier than Kiwi Grip to apply and not too expensive. I guess my second choice would be grey flowcoat with particles (I just don't know how good I'd be with the application). A buddy didn't like the idea of flowcoat and just said if you're going to do that, use Rustolem, easy to touch up and cheap!
I plan on getting to this before summer. Anyone have any other thoughts or other options? Why do the US guys not like flowcoat? (they'd rather use paint)
