The key points first:
F2 EcoHull is a fouling-release system, not a conventional antifouling. There are no biocides that wash out and lose their effect over time. Instead, caring for F2 EcoHull is about keeping the surface clean and performing well.
Why F2 EcoHull is cared for differently
F2 EcoHull does not work through toxins, but through an extremely smooth, water-repellent surface that fouling struggles to adhere to. Conventional antifouling releases biocides over the season and wears down in the process. With F2 EcoHull the coating stays intact: maintenance means cleaning, not recoating.
Movement helps here. Under way, loose fouling largely releases by itself; the surface is designed to be self-cleaning. The more regularly and the faster the boat travels, the cleaner the hull stays. Boats kept permanently moored or moved only slowly should plan for interim cleans as needed.
What to expect from fouling
F2 EcoHull does not prevent fouling completely; no system does. But F2 EcoHull makes removing fouling very easy. If the boat sits for longer periods or is moved only slowly, a green, slimy biofilm usually forms first, which wipes off easily with a soft brush or a soft sponge.
If the biofilm hardens, it also gives harder fouling such as algae, mussels or barnacles something to hold onto. Cleaning then becomes more work. But even then the surface can always be brought back to a residue-free clean.
For why a fouling-release system differs fundamentally from biocidal antifouling, read here: Fouling-release systems vs. antifouling →
The first clean after launching
F2 EcoHull reaches full cure only after 8 to 12 weeks in the water. During this time you should avoid heavy mechanical loads and pressure washing.
After these first 8 to 12 weeks, a first gentle clean (early clean) makes sense, if needed. Wipe off the initial fouling with a soft sponge or a soft brush. This removes the first layer and helps the fouling-release system reach its full performance.
No pressure washer and no vigorous mechanical work while the coating is not yet fully cured.
Routine care during the season
When fouling forms on the hull during the season, it is most easily removed in the water. You can snorkel or dive and clean the hull with a sponge or a soft brush. This keeps the boat clean between trips without taking it out of the water.
What to clean with
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RecommendedA soft sponge or a soft brush. The SHURHOLD type 272 hand brush, for example, works well.
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After full cureA plastic scraper helps with more stubborn spots, but only with rounded, not sharp edges. Soft silicone kitchen scrapers work well.
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Less suitableA cloth or rag. It clogs with biofilm too quickly and smears more than it picks up. A sponge and a brush can be rinsed out and work more effectively.
How often to clean
The frequency depends on use and area. A boat used often and at speed largely cleans itself. A permanently moored boat or a high-fouling area calls for more frequent help.
Cleaning at haul-out and ashore
When the boat is craned or slipped, clean the hull while the fouling is still wet. Dried-on fouling is much harder to remove.
You should only use the pressure washer after full cure, that is after the first 8 to 12 weeks in the water. Keep enough distance, use a fan jet rather than a pinpoint jet, and only as much pressure as needed. This removes fouling efficiently without stressing the smooth surface.
Refreshing with F2 EcoWash
At the end of the season, after a longer period of mooring or at the start of the season, F2 EcoWash refreshes the water-repellent protective film of the Top Coat and cleans at the same time. The water-beading effect is noticeably renewed, with no new top layer.
F2 EcoHull needs no annual or biennial recoat. The coating lasts 5+ years. If the water-beading effect fades, you refresh it with F2 EcoWash as needed. After 5 years, it is advisable to reseal the coating with a fresh layer of Top Coat.
What you should avoid
No hard brushes, wire brushes, metal scrapers or scouring pads (Scotch-Brite). They scratch the smooth surface and weaken the fouling-release effect. No sharp-edged tools: use a plastic scraper only with rounded edges and only after full cure.
No aggressive chemicals and no solvents such as acetone or thinners. They can attack the surface.
Spotted a scratch or chip while cleaning? To the repair guide →
Still applying? To the F2 EcoHull guide →
Clean and refresh in one step: F2 EcoWash →