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The Best Boat Deck Paints (Non-skid, Fiberglass, Wood & More)

Written by Anthony Roberts / Fact checked by Jonathan Larson

best boat deck paint

Unlike indoor areas, the boat deck is exposed to various elements such as rain, sun, and wind. The wear and tear of frequent sailing is another thing to worry about. So, it’s a good measure to settle for the best boat deck paint. To get it, you have to be certain of the following factors:

  • Protection: A stunning finish is a normal thing to expect from boat floor paint. But it’s also crucial that it guarantees the safety of those who step on the boat’s floor. It needs to have water and slip resistance like epoxy boat floor paint. When the paint is not easily washed away, peeled, or cracked, it protects decks and surfaces well.
  • To establish a slip-resistant surface, paint texture and formula are the components. Non-slip deck paint can also be applied to accessories like deck chairs where you can sit comfortably.
  • Color: Color plays a big role in promoting a lovely finish that suits your deck. It won’t be hard to pick the one that you like since there’s a wide range of available colors. Just so you know, the white color will allow you to be barefooted since it remains cool even under the sun. When you choose dark-colored deck paint, it’s advisable to wear your shoes even onboard.
  • Durability: The paint for the boat floor must be tough enough to bear foot traffic, UV rays, and rough weather conditions. For example, the best non-skid boat deck paint creates a durable finish that doesn’t cease to protect.

Now that you are aware of the factors that you have to take note of, look through these boat deck paint reviews to choose one that suits you.

Top 1

TotalBoat Deck Paint

+ Creates a durable, textured finish
+ No peeling and fading
+ The tiny particles are not sharp

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Top 2

Rust-Oleum 206999

+ Used in different painting jobs
+ Smooth finish
+ Creates a protective layer

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Top 3

KiwiGrip Non-Skid Coating

+ Can make your preferred texture
+ Prevent slipping
+ Covers scars and dings

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Top 7 Boat Deck Paint Reviews

1. TotalBoat TotalTread Non-Skid Deck Paint

The tiny plastic beads make this stand out among anti-slip paints. They are way better than sand mixed and are so small you can’t easily spot them. Once the paint dries, you’ll be happy with a durable, textured surface. This is not only paint for fiberglass boat decks as it can adhere to wood, metal, aluminum, and previously painted surfaces, too.

The silica in this formula makes the finish easy on bare feet. I like how the surface isn’t slick after a water splash or rain. As mentioned, it’s durable so peeling and fading won’t occur. Although scrubbing is done for maintenance, I and my crew can still have a secure footing without compromising comfort.

I’m more than satisfied with its effect on the deck and cockpit of my boats. Hence, I used it in replacing the old Spalding basketball backboard that has been rotting for years. It made my son who’s crazy about basketball so happy! It’s been a year since I did this project, and this proves that it can protect the wood from warping.

Every purchase of this non-skid deck paint comes with gloves and a stir stick. Before application, it needs to be mixed properly. To ensure that I do it efficiently, I use a drill mixer. I must say that two coats are essential as the first one may show inconsistent layers, especially where the particles are only contained in a certain area. It’s fixed by the second coating.

All the necessary effort during application is worthwhile because any chalky and dull fiberglass is revived. It contributes immensely to maintaining the interior of my boats looking new all the time.
Pros
  • Creates a durable, textured finish
  • Not slick even splashed with water
  • No peeling and fading
  • The tiny particles are not sharp
  • Protects wood from warping
  • Can revive and maintain a fiberglass
Cons
  • Needs to be mixed well to achieve the desired result
  • Two coatings are a must
I don’t need to seek better fiberglass boat deck paint since this TotalBoat totaltread non-skid boat paint does an excellent job.

2. Rust-Oleum 206999 Marine Topside Paint

I’ve heard from the boaters in my area that they use it for their boat hulls. The description recommends it for above the waterline use, so I ventured to have it on my deck. To my delight, it serves well as a boat floor coating. I was amazed when I saw it cover cracks and scratches. I love the smooth finish with a display of elegance too. On top of these benefits, it’s boat deck paint on a budget.

The gloss is just right because I think it can be slippery if it’s too glossy. It’s just my opinion on its finish that is akin to hard plastic. Apart from fixing and enhancing fiberglass, wood, and metal surfaces, it builds a protective layer against UV rays and bad weather conditions.

My boats and marine accessories are not the only ones that benefit from this quality deck paint. My once butterscotch-colored bathtub turned into its original white color after I applied it. It bonds well with the fake granite countertop in my kitchen. Therefore, it’s dependable for every painting job.

I like how this paint levels well as it’s formulated for spray and brush applications. You can go for a manual application because it lies down easily. It’s stated in the description that it can dry in an hour or two. However, you have to thin it out first with the regular thinner or Valspar thinner. I don’t complain about thinning it out but only its strong scent. If possible, do the job outdoors or open all the airways when you’re indoors.
Pros
  • Can cover cracks and scratches on fiberglass
  • Smooth finish with enough gloss to not make surfaces slippery
  • Creates a protective layer against UV rays and bad weather conditions
  • Can be applied on fiberglass, wood, and metal surfaces
  • Used in different painting jobs
  • Levels well and can be sprayed or applied manually
Cons
  • Needs to be thinned out to dry quickly
  • Has a strong scent
Due to its glossy finish, protective layer, and ability to cover flaws, it’s just right to include it in the list of the top-rated boat deck paints.

3. KiwiGrip Non-Skid Coating

Restoration of my 15-foot bass boat is a success because of this non-skid paint. I made the right decision of replacing the carpet on my deck with anti-slip decking paint. Aside from the bass boats and aluminum boats, this can bond on fiberglass surfaces. You may apply it on a wooden deck but you have to prime the area first. Also, it can stick on concrete.

I can say that this is the best paint for the boat deck because I can control the texture. I prefer just a little texture so it won’t be bothersome to my feet. Enough traction is what I need to prevent slipping and other accidents on wet decks. You can practice on a scrap piece to get the texture that you like.

There are black and pastel boat deck paint colors to choose from you. The light colors are selected so the non-skid properties are not destroyed. I’m even more impressed when I found out that it can cover scars and dings. Thus, I didn’t think twice about using it on my 30-year old boat that was not in use for many years. You don’t have to hesitate to include this in your kit to restore water vessels.

I use a roller to spread this paint and a V-shaped trowel to make the finish even. The trowel is essential when you need a thin layer. You can make a thicker layer by adding more paint. This substance dries quickly when under around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. So, you have to move fast and see to it that the finish levels if you work under hot weather.
Pros
  • Can be on metal, aluminum, fiberglass, and wood surfaces
  • You can make your preferred texture
  • Prevent slipping even though the deck is wet
  • Covers scars and dings
  • Good for water vessel restoration
Cons
  • The need to move fast working under hot weather to be able to level the finish
Since you can control or adjust the texture to your preference, you’ll be happy with the finish just like I did. I accomplished a texture that is neither too abrasive nor plain.

4. TotalBoat 365399 Wet Edge Marine Topside Paint

The deck area is where people usually walk going back and forth. Due to this, I can be at ease with the durable and glossy finish of this product. It creates a beautiful layer that is resistant to scratches, abrasion, and chemicals. I can attest that this paint can last for many years and repainting doesn’t need to be done frequently. Most importantly, the durability gives me peace of mind.

The thick finish can let the old boats regain a new look. I even used it to correct the recent paint job done by the previous owner of the boat that I bought. After the vessel is painted, it stands out when it sits beside other boats.

Aside from being the paint for fiberglass boat floor, it’s applicable for metals, wood, and previously painted surfaces. So, you can have it as a pontoon deck paint. Several people use it to maintain their swimming pools in presentable condition. The manufacturer is right when introducing this as submersible because the paint stays the same even when it gets wet.

The best way to apply this is with the roll and tip method, though spraying is also acceptable. However, it’s advisable to apply it thinly. When putting an excessive amount, it can sag or run so you will have issues with drying time and uniformity. Regarding this matter, you don’t need to use thinner. As long as the application is right, this paint dries quickly.
Pros
  • Creates a durable and glossy finish
  • Resistant to scratches, abrasion, and chemicals
  • The thick finish is useful on old boats and fixing painted surfaces
  • Can be on different surfaces
  • Not easily tainted when it gets wet
  • Can dry quickly
Cons
  • It can sag or run when not applied thinly
This polyurethane paint can make a thick, durable finish that protects your deck and other surfaces in the long run. It can revive old vessels and fix painting issues too.

5. Liquid Rubber Smooth Polyurethane Deck Coating

I was desperately looking for marine paint for wood decks because of the substandard materials added by the builder to my deck. Since I don’t have a budget to replace the wooden parts, I opted for something like a composite deck. This is the right paint for my plans and I chose the texture light gray. There are various colors and you can also choose a smooth finish. It all depends on your preference.

It protects the deck very well despite the exposure to torrential downpours and tropical sun for a long period. That’s how dependable its thick layer is. It’s not the regular deck paints that flake off in a few years. I must say that its result can please boat owners. It can also be used on the dock kit that I assembled.

You may also apply it on concrete surfaces based on its efficacy on a couple of projects. To give a few examples, our balcony that looked gray and worn off is now wonderful. I tried so hard to stop the leaking in the stone garage when it rains. The issue was resolved after I used it on the cement deck over the garage. It’s a clear testimony that it covers surfaces completely.

This rubberized boat deck coating is so thick that it doesn’t drip from a roller or brush. I thought the painting process was hard because of this consistency. Surprisingly, it goes on the surface smoothly but needs more time to apply. Since I use the textured type, it’s not slippery at all. Moreover, it’s not too hot to step on even though it’s exposed to the sun.
Pros
  • Various colors and types of finish
  • Protective against torrential downpours and tropical sun
  • Doesn’t flake off easily
  • For wooden and concrete surfaces
  • Can stop leaking
  • Not slippery or too hot to step on even though it’s exposed to the sun
Cons
  • More time for application
The previous paint on my deck is nothing compared to this liquid rubber formula. I was able to avoid spending more money on buying new wood as it creates a layer that is tough enough to face the marine environment.

6. Rust-Oleum 207009 Marine Anti-Slip Additive

Safety concerns oblige me to get excellent deck paint for the aluminum boat. This product is the right candidate since it’s slip-resistant deck paint. But it can be on different boat decks as it can stick to other materials. Aside from being skiff or pontoon boat deck paint, it’s applicable for fiberglass, wood, and painted surfaces. As an additive, you can mix it with oil-based or latex paint.

You can expect longevity from its finish as it has survived high traffic. The anti-slip result is perfect for the boat’s deck and floor. No more fear of backflipping during damp mornings. This also assures my elderly mother that she can get on my pontoon without tripping. I also use it on her ramp. Our front door at home is no longer slippery after I mixed some of this with the cement paint.

As you can observe with the various applications, it’s indeed for interior and exterior use. When water and snow stay on the finish, I just sweep them off. It gives me relief to see that nothing bad happened. I thought that I needed to repaint the deck but fortunately, it’s not necessary when you have this waterproof paint.

Apart from mixing it with paint, you can just sprinkle it directly over a deck surface with wet paint. You may use a shaker for an easy process. Rolling it is also fine if you wish to have a rough surface. Some find it hard to apply but I did mine in small batches though it consumes more time. But I have nothing to complain about because I can achieve an even finish.
Pros
  • Can be on different surfaces
  • Survives high traffic
  • Non-slip, waterproof coating to prevent accidents
  • For interior and exterior use
  • Not easily damaged by snow and rain
  • Can be applied directly without mixing with oil-base or latex paint
Cons
  • Application in small batches can be time consuming
After adding this additive to high-quality paint, you can create a slip-resistant finish. This non-slip boat deck paint is ideal for aluminum boats, fiberglass boats, duck boats, and more.

7. Tuff Coat UT-211 Light Gray Non-Skid Coating

It’s unquestionably marine-grade paint because of the finish that it makes. It has a non-skid additive in the form of recycled rubber tire granules. So, you can ditch the carpet that you use on your deck and spare yourself from the demands of cleaning. It’s an outstanding paint as I can make a durable coating that is slip resistant at the same time.

You may think that this is a boring kind of paint because of its inclination to durability. But it’s available in 15 shades so you can choose the one that spices up your boat’s look. When there are blemishes, scars, and stains on fiberglass surfaces, you can use it to cover those areas. Thus, it doesn’t only prevent surfaces from being slick and slippery but it enhances the appearance as well.

Apart from fiberglass boat decks, it has remarkable effects on aluminum boats. My fellow boater also painted this on the floor of an enclosed trailer. The effect is superb just like how it goes with the exterior surfaces. Furthermore, I’m surprised that it’s also great on wooden decks so it’s like sailboat deck paint too! With these revelations, the durable coating of this paint is versatile.

Although it’s time-consuming to make an impact-resistant, non-slip, and durable finish, I can’t complain as it keeps my vessels protected. You can either spray or use a roller to apply this paint. I like that it doesn’t have a strong odor and dries in just half an hour.
Pros
  • Delivers a durable, non-slip coating
  • Can hide blemishes, scars, and stains on fiberglass surfaces
  • Has remarkable effects on various materials whether interior or exterior part
  • Has resistance to impact
  • Doesn’t have a strong odor
  • Dries in just half an hour
Cons
  • Application is time-consuming
This is the number one for me among the numerous boat deck paints. The tough, durable coating gives me all the reason to be loyal to this product.

Buyer’s Guide

paint-for-fiberglass-boat-deck

Types of Boat Deck Paint

The market offers a wide range of marine deck paints. In terms of ingredients, the usual ones are oil-based paint, acrylics, and linear polyurethane. Some of these paints have ground rubber or tiny particles to create a non-skid finish.

Among the formulations, polyurethane paint proves to be great at resisting UV rays, water, solvents, and oils. High-quality paint protects the deck against harsh elements so your deck and boat won’t be easily damaged.

Benefits

  • These paints can fill up gaps and cracks. They can cover the effects of outdoor elements. Moreover, you may use it to fix the damaged and faded areas on different surfaces.
  • Deck paints are available in various colors so you can choose one for aesthetic enhancement. Faded and aged colors can be replaced with ease.
  • These paints protect wooden surfaces very well. They can repel UV damage, rotting, and molds. Thus, your wooden deck is in good shape as long as you cover it with reliable deck paint.
  • Most boat owners would spread a carpet on the boat’s floor. However, you have to clean it from time to time. If you paint your deck with a good product, you can make a tough finish that requires effortless cleaning.

What Kind of Paint Should I Use on My Boat Deck

The kind of paint that you should use on your boat deck is the one formulated to protect against daily wear and tear. Furthermore, it must shield the deck and floor from foot traffic, harsh sunlight, water, and wind. It typically can eliminate flex damage and cracks caused by freezing. You can also find one that stops leaking issues.

If you’re worried about slipping issues because the deck is exposed to water and rain, choose paint that has slip resistance and is comfortable to bare feet.

How Should I Prepare My Boat Deck Before Painting

best-non-skid-boat-deck-paint

Here are some necessary preparations so you can continuously paint your deck without interruptions.

  • Remove all the hardware like plastic, aluminum window frames, and sliding doors. It must be done before starting to paint. For instance, the paint can mess up objects made of plastic.
  • Just a brush of the paint can sometimes be wrong as you need to complete necessary repairs like rotting sections and damaged areas. It’s a crucial step to achieve the expected result.
  • The temperature affects the outcome and drying time so you have to be conscious when you begin the painting process. Too much heat at noon is not good as well as late afternoon because cooling temperature and moisture in the air have unfavorable effects. A sunny day is an ideal time to paint.
  • When you need to sand and vacuum the service, get rid of the dust and residue. You can make sure that there is no residue by smacking the surface with a towel. Then, sweep and vacuum if it’s still needed before you wipe the area with a clean cloth.
  • Read the manufacturer’s instructions so your work won’t be interrupted. You may stop at one point and wonder about the next thing that you need to do. To avoid this, familiarize yourself with the necessary steps. It’s also a way to achieve the expected result.

How Do I Paint a Fiberglass Boat Deck

  • You may use a primer or not since it’s not a must for fiberglass boats. If you opt for a primer, you need to make sure it’s compatible with your chosen paint.
  • When the layer of primer is done, you can lightly sand it before proceeding to the second coating. It’s advisable to begin painting two hours after the completion of the primer.
  • Mix the paint as instructed by the manufacturer.
  • Start painting on the edges as you go and you can work your way to the middle. You’ll also need to put tape on the edges of the area you intend to paint.
  • Although it appears that the paint has dried, it’s best to let it sit for 24 hours or the time recommended by the manufacturer. Protect the surface from debris and bugs from sticking.

How Do I Paint a Wooden Boat Deck

  • Sanding the wooden surface is crucial to ensure that the paint adheres well and the result is great. You may use a disc sander or orbital sander. Sandpaper is also needed in some cases. The coarseness will depend on the wood condition. Pick the coarser one if there are a lot of undesirable spots to scrape.
  • After sanding, you have to clean the area and get rid of the tiniest particles. You can use a vacuum to get rid of the dust.
  • It’s recommended to use a primer for bare wood. A single coating is fine but the second coating is pretty good. Choose the metallic primer because it’s watertight.
  • When applying the paint, you should follow the direction of the wood’s grain. Scratches that are caused by sanding won’t be obvious if you do it. Avoid over-applying and just put the right amount of paint in the brush or roller. It’s best to apply thinly.
  • Drying is quick during warm days. While drying, make sure that nothing sticks on the surface.

Conclusion

Decks can be made of various materials. A single deck may have various components but with the best boat deck paint, you won’t need any other substance as it can adhere to different materials. The right paint protects your deck against sunlight, rain, snow, wind, water, and other harsh elements in the long run. It also prevents accidents that can occur from slippery boat floors.

5/5 - (3 votes)