Frequently Asked Questions
General questions
What is F2 and How Does It Differ from Traditional Antifouling?
F2 is an eco-friendly hybrid polymer coating that effectively protects your boat from underwater fouling for many years by creating an ultra-smooth, hydrophobic surface that prevents marine growth. Unlike traditional antifouling, it contains no biocides, toxins, or solvents – making it 100% environmentally friendly.
Gibt es unabhängige Tests, die die Wirksamkeit von F2 belegen?
Ja – die Wirksamkeit und Haltbarkeit von F2 wurde in einem unabhängigen Testbericht des renommierten Institutes Endures B.V. in den Niederlanden bestätigt. Das Institut ist spezialisiert auf maritimen Bewuchs- und Korrosionsschutz und hat F2 unter realistischen Bedingungen im Langzeittest untersucht.
How Long Does an F2 Coating Last?
An F2 coating is extremely durable and designed not to wear off or dissolve. It lasts for at least five years, often much longer. Once applied, it provides long-lasting performance and significantly reduces maintenance costs over time. If the effectiveness diminishes after many years, the coating can be easily refreshed with a new layer of Top Coat.
Is F2 Truly Environmentally Friendly?
Yes, F2 is 100% environmentally friendly, as it contains no harmful substances, biocides, solvents, catalysts, or VOCs. Independently tested, it meets the highest environmental standards by protecting marine ecosystems and releasing no harmful substances into the water. With F2, you actively contribute to cleaner oceans and a sustainable future – without compromising on performance.
Can F2 Be Used on Any Boat?
Yes, F2 can be applied to almost all underwater materials, including GRP, aluminum, steel, carbon, and even wood. It can also be applied over existing antifouling, as long as the surface is intact.
Is F2 Suitable for Freshwater?
F2 works perfectly in both freshwater and saltwater. It provides protection in any body of water without harming the environment.
What Color is F2?
F2 is not a traditional paint, but a high-performance coating that creates a durable, glossy surface. The final color comes from the Adhesive Coat, which is available in Black, White, and Royal Blue. The Top Coat is always transparent and ensures a smooth, hydrophobic finish.
To add a unique effect, the Top Coat is available with or without a silver sparkle effect, resulting in the following glossy finishes:
- Black Gloss – Deep black with a high-gloss finish
- Sparkle Graphite – Black with a silver sparkle effect
- White Gloss – Pure white with a high-gloss finish
- White Sparkle – White with a silver sparkle effect
- Royal Blue – Vibrant royal blue with a high-gloss finish
- Royal Blue Sparkle – Royal blue with a silver sparkle effect
No matter which color you choose, F2 always delivers a sleek, glossy surface that enhances both performance and aesthetics.
Application and Preparation
How do I prepare my boat hull for F2?
With the right preparation, you ensure good adhesion of the new F2 coating. We recommend the following steps:
- Sanding: Sand your hull with K120-220 grit to create a smooth and even surface that provides enough grip for applying the layers.
Existing Antifouling: You can usually apply F2 over your existing antifouling as long as the surface is intact. If you have any questions about this, feel free to contact us. - Cleaning: Use the F2 Degreasing Solution to thoroughly clean and degrease the hull after sanding. Keep in mind that we supply the F2 Degreasing Solution as a concentrate, which can be diluted at a 1:10 ratio.
Do I need a primer before applying F2?
Since the F2 HullKit already includes a high-quality underwater primer, no additional priming is required before applying the F2 coating.
How is F2 applied?
Applying F2 is incredibly straightforward and can be done without specialized knowledge or professional help.
Before applying, the surface should be smoothed with 120-220 grit sandpaper. In most cases, the old antifouling does not need to be removed (if you're unsure, feel free to contact us!).
The process involves three simple steps:
- Apply 1 layer of F2 Primer to prepare and seal the surface.
- Apply 1 layer of F2 Adhesive Coat to ensure strong adhesion.
- Finish with 1 layer of F2 Top Coat to create the protective hydrophobic surface.
Make sure to follow the drying intervals between each layer. All detailed instructions can be found in the product datasheet.
After just 36 hours, your boat will be ready to return to the water!
Which Rollers Are Best for Applying F2?
For an exceptionally smooth and flawless finish, we recommend using high-quality foam rollers for applying all F2 components.
How Long Does F2 Take to Fully Cure?
Just 36 hours after applying the final layer, the Top Coat, the boat can be lifted to paint the areas under the cradle pads, keel, etc. Once these areas are dry to the touch (no residue on your finger), the boat can be returned to the water.
At this stage, the surface may still feel slightly tacky.
Due to the special properties of F2, the coating only fully cures in water. It takes approximately 12 weeks for the coating to reach its full effectiveness and completely harden. Once fully cured, the surface becomes rock-hard.
Can I Keep F2 Out of the Water for an Extended Period?
Yes, the F2 coating is highly durable and extremely UV-resistant, allowing the boat to remain on land for an extended period without compromising the integrity of the coating.
Care and Maintenance
How Do I Maintain My Hull After Applying F2?
During the first 12 weeks, the coating fully cures. During this time, you can wipe the hull with a cloth if needed or gently remove any fouling with a plastic scraper.
What Should I Do If the Coating Gets Damaged?
Small damages can be repaired by simply reapplying the Top Coat. For larger damages, feel free to contact us – we’re happy to assist you!
Special Requirements
Can I Apply F2 Products in Extreme Temperatures?
The manufacturer states that application is possible from 5°C ambient temperature and 3°C surface temperature. However, we recommend not applying F2 below 10°C, as the application process is significantly easier and the drying behavior is optimal at higher temperatures.
Which Colors Are Available?
F2 is available in six glossy finishes, created by combining the Adhesive Coat (which provides the base color) and the transparent Top Coat (available with or without a silver sparkle effect):
- Black Gloss – Deep black with a high-gloss finish
- Sparkle Graphite – Black with a silver sparkle effect
- White Gloss – Pure white with a high-gloss finish
- White Sparkle – White with a silver sparkle effect
- Royal Blue – Vibrant royal blue with a high-gloss finish
- Royal Blue Sparkle – Royal blue with a silver sparkle effect
All F2 coatings have a high-gloss finish and are never matte, ensuring a sleek and durable surface.
How Do I Remove F2 If I Want to Switch Back to Traditional Antifouling?
F2 offers a special removal gel. It is applied to the surface, covered with foil, and removed after 24 hours. After that, the hull is completely clean and can be recoated with any coating of your choice.
Any more questions?
We are happy to assist you with any questions and support you throughout the application process.