Welke antifouling heb ik nodig en waarom?

Complete Guide to Antifouling: Types, Brands, and Proper Application
As a boating enthusiast, you want your boat to always perform at its best and be protected against fouling. Nothing is more frustrating than an underwater hull covered in algae, shellfish, and aquatic plants. Protecting your hull with antifouling paint is therefore essential. But which type of antifouling should you choose? Which brands are suitable for your boat? And what do you need to achieve a perfect result? In this guide, we cover everything about antifouling, including hard antifouling, self-polishing antifouling, B-Free, and well-known brands like Boero Scirocco, Hempel, International, B-Free, and Coppercruse, along with practical tips for flawless application.

What Is Antifouling and Why Is It Important?
Antifouling is a special type of paint applied below the waterline to prevent fouling—the attachment of organisms such as algae, shellfish, and aquatic plants. Without antifouling, your boat can become slower, consume more fuel, and wear out faster.

There are different types of antifouling, each with its own unique properties. The best choice depends on:

• The type of boat and speed

• Water conditions (fresh, brackish, or saltwater)

• Frequency of use

• Environmental considerations

Types of Antifouling

1. Hard Antifouling
Hard antifouling forms a durable, solid layer that is resistant to wear and abrasion. This type is ideal for fast-moving boats or boats that frequently encounter obstacles.

Key Products:
Interspeed Extra

• Hard, copper-free antifouling

• Suitable for fast boats and all substrates, including aluminum

• Protects against algae, aquatic plants, and other organisms

• Can be polished to a smooth surface

• Available in white, red, navy blue, and black

• Recoatable after ±12 hours

• Can be applied up to 6 months before launching

Advantages of Hard Antifouling:

• Durable and wear-resistant

• Perfect for fast boats

• Requires less maintenance

Tip: For optimal results, use a primer such as Gelshield 200 or Primocon, depending on the substrate.

2. Self-Polishing (Ablative) Antifouling
Self-polishing antifouling wears gradually during sailing, continuously exposing a fresh protective layer. Ideal for boats that sail regularly.

Key Products:

Micron LZ

• Copper-based, self-polishing antifouling

• Suitable for slower boats (up to 25 knots / 46 km/h)

• Protects in fresh, brackish, and saltwater

• Recoatable after ±6 hours

• Can be applied on wood, polyester, steel, iron, and lead

• NOT suitable for aluminum

International Cruiser One

• Self-polishing, copper-based antifouling

• Suitable for slower boats (up to 25 knots)

• Protects in fresh and brackish water

• Recoatable after ±6 hours

• Can be applied on wood, polyester, steel, iron, and lead

• NOT suitable for aluminum

Boero Scirocco

• Self-polishing, copper-based antifouling

• Protects in fresh, brackish, and saltwater

• Suitable for slower boats (max 40 knots)

• Can be applied on wood, polyester, steel, iron, and lead

• NOT suitable for aluminum

Uni-Pro 225

• Self-polishing, copper-based antifouling

• Suitable for boats up to 25 knots

• Protects in fresh, brackish, and saltwater

• Recoatable after ±6 hours

• Can be applied on wood, polyester, steel, iron, and lead

• NOT suitable for aluminum

Advantages of Self-Polishing Antifouling:

• Continuously exposes a fresh protective layer with use

• Reduces fouling on regularly sailed boats

• Ideal for sailboats and small motorboats

3. Environmentally Friendly Antifouling: B-Free
B-Free works without heavy biocides and provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional antifouling. The system consists of a tiecoat and a conversion coat, making it difficult for microorganisms to attach.

Advantages:

• Environmentally friendly

• Highly suitable for freshwater areas

• Low maintenance and durable

Suitable For:

• Sailboats and small motorboats

• Boaters who want to sail responsibly and sustainably

4. Coppercruse
Coppercruse is a copper-based antifouling effective in both fresh and saltwater. This product is suitable for a wide range of boats and provides long-lasting protection.

Advantages:

• Highly effective against fouling

• Long-lasting protection

• Suitable for various types of boats

Primers and Preparation
A good primer is essential for adhesion and durability of antifouling. At SchilderJeSchip, we recommend:

Primocon

• Fast-drying, 1-component primer

• Suitable for wood, steel, aluminum, iron, and lead

• Protects the hull against osmosis

• Can be used under all International antifoulings

• Recoatable and suitable for all substrates

Tip: Always check our essential painting supplies category to order brushes, rollers, sandpaper, and cleaning agents in one go.

Application by Substrate:

• Polyester (gelcoat): Gelshield 200 as primer for new anti-osmosis systems; Primocon can also be used as an intermediate layer

• Wood: Primocon

• Steel, lead, iron: Primocon or Interprotect

• Aluminum: Only hard antifouling like Interspeed Extra

Tips for Choosing the Right Antifouling:

• Determine your boat type: fast or slow

• Consider water conditions: fresh, brackish, or saltwater

• Consider eco-friendly options: B-Free

• Use the correct primer and supplies for optimal results

• Choose a reliable brand: Boero Scirocco, Hempel, International, Epifanes, Coppercruse

Why SchilderJeSchip?
At SchilderJeSchip, you’ll find:

• All major antifouling brands

• A complete range of painting supplies

• Expert advice for every boater

• Option to order directly and receive quickly

With the right antifouling and materials, you can extend your boat’s lifespan, improve performance, and save on maintenance costs.

Conclusion
Antifouling is essential for anyone who wants to protect their boat from fouling and wear. Hard antifouling like Interspeed Extra offers durability for fast boats, while self-polishing antifouling such as Micron LZ, Cruiser One, Boero Scirocco, and Uni-Pro 225 is ideal for regular use. Prefer eco-friendly sailing? Choose B-Free.

Want the best result? Make sure to use the correct primer and supplies. Order your antifouling and painting materials from SchilderJeSchip or contact us for advice. This way, you can enjoy a clean, fast, and well-protected boat all season long.