How to Add Plastic to the Bottom of an Aluminum Jon Boat

by Scott Knickelbine
itstillruns article image
fishing image by Photoeyes from Fotolia.com

A jon boat is a flat-bottomed boat, usually used for fishing in shallow waters. Many jon boats have aluminum hulls, which can get seriously scratched and gouged if the water gets too shallow. In addition, the rivet lines on that broad underside can create drag, which will slow you down. One way to protect and smooth your jon boat hull is to coat it in plastic -- or, more specifically, two-part epoxy resin. A number of products on the market are designed specifically to provide protection for aluminum marine hulls.

Step 1

Turn the boat upside down on level ground in a spot out of direct sun. Prop the hull if necessary to make sure it is as level as possible.

Step 2

Clean the underside using acetone or lacquer thinner, and allow it to dry completely.

Step 3

Sand the area to be coated with 100-grit sandpaper to thoroughly abrade the aluminum.

Step 4

Combine the epoxy resin and hardener according to package directions. Stir thoroughly with a stick.

Step 5

Work the epoxy into and around seams and joints in the underside, using the paint brush.

Step 6

Apply the epoxy to the rest of the hull using the roller brush. Smooth the epoxy over the surface using broad, light strokes with the roller.

Step 7

Allow the epoxy to cure for 12 hours, and then mix and apply another coat if desired. Allow the epoxy to cure a full 24 hours before returning the boat to the water.

More Articles

article divider
×