Whether for aesthetic, practical or ecological reasons, boat covering, also known as wrapping, is attracting a growing number of owners looking for an alternative to traditional paintwork. Find out the answers to the most frequently asked questions about this method, its practical applications and its many advantages.
Is covering suitable for all types of boats?
Covering is a particularly popular choice for a wide range of boats. High-performance polymeric adhesive films, specifically designed for this type of application, make it possible to personalize a boat at lower cost and without the delays often required for traditional painting. Thanks to their flexibility, they are able to adapt perfectly to the varied shapes of hulls, from small units such as tenders, jet-skis or wakeboats, to larger yachts.
Does covering damage the gel-coat?
Contrary to popular belief, covering does not damage the gel-coat. On the contrary, it acts as an additional layer of protection, preventing premature wear of the gel-coat in the face of UV rays, scratches and humidity. The adhesive film used for wrapping is designed not to alter the underlying surface, and can be removed without leaving any traces or sticky adhesives.
How fast is the covering installation?
One of the major advantages of covering is the speed with which it can be applied. Depending on the size of the project, adhesive film can be applied in 1 to 3 days. This rapid turnaround is a significant advantage over traditional methods such as painting, which can take several days or even weeks, due to the various preparation, drying and touch-up stages involved. This efficiency allows owners to minimize downtime, so they can quickly enjoy a customized and protected boat.
What are the life and maintenance times of the covering?
The quality adhesive film used for covering is designed to last for several years, generally between 5 and 7 years, depending on the conditions of use and maintenance of the boat. This longevity is comparable to that of quality paint. Another major advantage of covering over paint is its ease of maintenance. Routine cleaning with clear water is all that's needed to maintain the hull's appearance, with specific cleaning products to prolong shine and prevent film wear.
Unlike paint, which may require frequent retouching or reapplication, film is scratch- and stain-resistant. What's more, part of the film can be replaced without having to rebuild the whole boat, enabling effective localized repairs.
Can the covering be removed or replaced?
Removing the film is one of the main concerns of car owners. Fortunately, the covering is designed to be easily removed without damaging the paint or gel-coat underneath. If you want to change your boat's design, or simply return it to its original color, all you need to do is call in a professional to remove the film without leaving any residue.
This flexibility is particularly appreciated for charter boats, or those that frequently change appearance according to season or event. What's more, if the new owner doesn't want to keep the covering, he or she can simply remove it to restore the hull's original color, which represents real added value.
Why is covering an economical option?
The cost of a boat covering varies according to several criteria, principally the size of the boat and the complexity of the design. For a 10 m boat, some marine suppliers quote a price range of between ?3,000 and ?4,200 inc. VAT; for a 15 m boat, the operation would cost between ?5,400 and ?7,200 incl. VAT. The financial advantages of covering are even more obvious for large yachts or boats requiring complex paintwork. In fact, covering offers considerable savings compared to traditional painting, with cost reductions ranging from one-third to two-thirds, or even more, of the total amount. The covering process is generally faster and requires less specialized equipment, which reduces costs. What's more, the film's simplified maintenance and longevity help avoid recurring expenditure on frequent repairs or touch-ups, unlike paint, which can deteriorate more quickly due to marine conditions.
How is covering a responsible alternative?
Unlike paint, which involves the use of often toxic chemicals, self-adhesive films are designed without substances that are hazardous to the environment. What's more, their application requires no polluting processes such as sanding or the use of solvents. The materials used for covering are also recyclable, helping to reduce environmental impact. By opting for this solution, boat owners can personalize their craft in a more responsible way, while minimizing their ecological footprint.
