Boat Bottom Painting in Annapolis, Maryland

Bottom painting labor at MAD Soaps is $27 per linear foot for primer application and $27 per linear foot for bottom paint application (for boats up to 40 feet). Materials (primer and paint) are billed separately based on your boat's needs. For example, a 30-foot boat would be $810 for primer labor + $810 for paint labor = $1,620 total labor, plus materials. Boats over 40 feet are quoted individually. We provide detailed quotes so you know the exact cost before we start.

Bottom painting covers the hull below the waterline. It does NOT include running gear coatings, outdrive painting, or transom brackets—these require different materials (such as HRT Eco or Trilux 33) and are quoted separately. Our service includes pressure washing, scraping and sanding old paint, repairing blisters or damage, applying primer ($27/ft labor), and applying antifouling paint ($27/ft labor). Materials are billed separately.

For boats kept in the Chesapeake Bay, we recommend bottom painting every 1-2 years. The Bay's brackish water promotes marine growth, especially during warmer months. Boats used frequently may need annual painting, while those stored on lifts or trailers can go longer between applications.

For Chesapeake Bay conditions, we recommend ablative (self-polishing) antifouling paints. These paints wear away slowly, continuously exposing fresh biocide to prevent barnacles, algae, and marine growth. Hard modified epoxy paints work well for high-speed boats. We'll recommend the best option for your boat and usage.

The best times for bottom painting in Maryland are early spring (March-April) before launch season, or fall (October-November) during haul-out. Spring painting ensures protection for the busy boating season. Fall painting allows the paint to cure over winter and protects against osmotic blistering.

Yes, MAD Soaps provides mobile bottom painting services throughout Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay region. We work at marinas including Port Annapolis, Eastport Yacht Center, and Bert Jabin Yacht Yard. We can also coordinate haul-out services if your marina doesn't have facilities.

Quality bottom paint typically lasts 12-24 months in Chesapeake Bay waters. Factors affecting longevity include water temperature, salinity, boat usage, and paint quality. Boats kept on lifts or trailers between uses will see longer paint life than boats kept in the water year-round.

Yes, we offer complete bottom paint removal when needed. If your hull has multiple layers of incompatible paints or excessive buildup, stripping to bare gelcoat provides the best foundation. We use environmentally responsible methods and dispose of old paint properly.