Hull Coating Comparison
Hull Pro vs. Every Alternative. An Honest Look.
There are more hull coating options on the market today than ever before — and most of them make the same promises. This page breaks down what actually matters: chemistry, cost per linear foot, maintenance requirements, and real-world durability. We include products that beat us in certain categories, because we'd rather you make the right decision for your boat than the wrong one with our product.
A note on ceramic hull coatings: Products like Gtechniq and Glidecoat are topsides coatings — they protect gelcoat above the waterline from UV, oxidation, and scratches. They are not designed for submerged hull surfaces and do not provide fouling release below the waterline. We include them here because they're often compared to Hull Pro, and the distinction matters.
Compare Hull Pro Against:
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | Traditional Antifouling Ablative Bottom Paint | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
~$125–$150
per linear ft / per season |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
Biocide-based ablative paint. Designed to slowly dissolve and leach biocides into the water over the season. |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
✗ Contains Biocides
Copper and/or zinc-based biocides. Banned or restricted on many freshwater lakes. |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. |
✓ Yes
Compatible with standard haul-out methods. |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
✗ Often Banned
Copper biocides banned or restricted on dozens of US freshwater lakes including Lake Tahoe. |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
⚠ DIY / Pro
DIY possible but surface prep required. Sand, degrease, prime. Annual reapplication needed. Heavy PPE required. |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over gelcoat and bare metals with recommended roller. |
✗ No
Flat matte finish. Brush marks & uneven thickness. Not good for metals or lower units. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Repaint every season (1–2 years max). In saltwater, growth still occurs as paint ablates. Haul-out required for reapplication. |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
✗ 1–2 Seasons
Ablative by design — wears away and must be reapplied annually. Builds up in layers over time. |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
Sand off existing layers annually before reapplication. Layers accumulate over time. Professional sandblasting needed for full removal. |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published Data
Fresh ablative paint may show speed gains vs. a fouled hull, but no verified percentage vs. bare gelcoat. Typical loss of speed of 5%. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published Data
Typical loss of fuel of 7%. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
✗ Toxic Leaching
Copper leaches into water by design. Accumulates in sediment near marinas. Many lakes ban or restrict use. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Saltwater and brackish applications. Full time wet-slip boats where antifouling is required. Not recommended for freshwater or trailer and lift-kept vessels. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✗ Opaque / Set Colors
Available in standard colors (black, red, blue, antifouling red, etc.). Covers existing hull color entirely. Color mismatch between topsides and bottom is common and can reduce resale value. |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajetusa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | Ceramic Coatings Gtechniq / Glidecoat | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
~$25–$50
per linear ft installed |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
Nano-ceramic SiO2 coating. Bonds to gelcoat at a molecular level. Designed for above-waterline UV and scratch protection — not for submerged hull surfaces. |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
✓ Biocide Free
No biocides. Safe for all water types. However, provides no antifouling or fouling-release properties below the waterline. |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. Zero delamination at speeds 150mph+. |
✓ Yes
Topside coating — haul-out compatibility is not a factor. |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
✓ Yes
No restrictions. Topsides-only application has no freshwater lake concerns. |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
⚠ Pro Recommended
Surface polish and degreasing required before application. Pro application recommended for full hull coverage. |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over bare metals and existing bottom paints with recommended roller. |
✓ Yes
Thin liquid ceramic bonds evenly to polished surfaces. High gloss finish. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Low maintenance above the waterline — UV and oxidation protection reduces polishing frequency. No effect on below-waterline fouling — separate bottom coating still required. |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
⚠ 1–3 Years Topsides
Above-waterline ceramic lasts 1–3 years depending on UV exposure and washing frequency. Does not protect below waterline. |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
No sandblasting required. Light polish or DA polisher removes the coating if needed. |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
✗ Not Applicable
Topsides product — does not affect hull drag or underwater performance. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
✗ Not Applicable
No performance data for underwater applications. Product not designed for below-waterline use. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
✓ Eco Friendly
No biocides, no heavy metals. Biocide-free formulation safe for all water types. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Above-waterline gelcoat protection — UV blocking, scratch resistance, gloss retention, hydrophobics. NOT a replacement for bottom paint or foul-release coatings below the waterline. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✓ Clear
Completely clear ceramic coating. Does not change the color of topsides gelcoat — enhances gloss while remaining invisible. |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajetusa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | Hull Maxx NASCO Worldwide | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
~$150
per linear ft installed |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
Foul-release / marine growth inhibitor. Silicone-based, non-ablative. Consumer product — classified as not hazardous under OSHA HCS consumer product exemption.² |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
⚠ Foul-Release Only
No copper biocides. Foul-release relies on surface slickness, not chemical toxicity. Hull Maxx PLUS adds an antifouling additive.² |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. Zero delamination at speeds 150mph+. |
✗ Caution — Slick
Multiple user reports of vessels slipping on travel lifts and trailer bunks. At least one marina in Fort Lauderdale reportedly stopped hauling Hull Maxx-coated boats.³ |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
✓ Yes
No biocide restrictions. Can be used in freshwater environments. |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
⚠ Pro Install
Professional application recommended. Not compatible with ablative bottom paint — must be removed to bare hull first. Costs range from $2,500–$5,000+ depending on vessel size.³ |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over bare metals and existing bottom paints with recommended roller. |
✓ Yes
Applied as a liquid coating that self-levels. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Regular cleaning required — user reports indicate fouling every 2–3 weeks in saltwater.³ While fouling releases more easily than on ablative paint, cleaning frequency remains high in warm saltwater conditions. |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
⚠ Multiple Seasons
Non-ablative — doesn't wear away. However, removal if needed is extremely difficult: users report $1,700–$2,000+ removal cost for 30ft boats using xylene, scrapers, and razor blades.³ |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
CAUTION: Removal is extremely difficult. Hull Maxx's own remover product has been reported as ineffective by multiple users. Xylene, scrapers, and razor blades typically required. $1,700+ removal cost reported for 30ft boats.³ |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ Claimed, Unverified
NASCO claims speed improvement vs. antifouling paint but no published percentage vs. bare gelcoat. Hull Maxx's speed claim is relative to a fouled bottom, not a clean one. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ Claimed, Unverified
Fuel savings claimed relative to antifouling paint — not independently verified vs. bare gelcoat. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
✓ No Biocides
No copper or zinc biocides. Not classified as a marine pollutant. Silicone compounds have been flagged as microplastics in some studies. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Wet-slip saltwater and brackish boats. Not recommended for trailer-kept vessels due to slick surface. Not compatible with ablative antifouling paint — full removal required before application. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✓ Clear
Completely clear. Hull's existing gelcoat color remains fully visible beneath the coating. |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajetusa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | SuperSlick 2000 Fasco Epoxies (9XN2000) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
~$100
per linear ft materials only |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
Two-part epoxy with PTFE (Teflon) friction-reducing additives. Hard, abrasion-resistant coating. Proven on airboats in the Florida Everglades since 1961. |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
✗ Aquatic Toxicity
SDS confirmed H400: Very toxic to aquatic life. H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: Fasco #9XN2000B SDS.⁴ |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. Zero delamination at speeds 150mph+. |
⚠ Yes — Slick
Extremely slick on dry surfaces — boat may slide on trailer bunks. Forum users note needing to re-strap more securely after application. |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
⚠ Use With Caution
No biocide restrictions, but H400/H412 aquatic toxicity classification raises concerns for freshwater environments. |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
✓ DIY
Roll, brush, or pour and spread. No special equipment required. 1:1 mix ratio. |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over gelcoat and bare metals with recommended roller. |
✗ Not Self-Leveling
Requires careful application technique. Brush strokes may be visible but per manufacturer don't affect performance. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Low maintenance for abrasion protection. Touch-up coats can be applied over existing coating. Designed for mud, grass, and sand — not primarily for marine fouling release in open water. |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
✓ Durable
Hard epoxy — proven abrasion resistance. Stays slick as long as coating remains intact. Wears with heavy grass/sand contact. |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
Epoxy must be ground or sanded off. No chemical remover available. Removal is labor-intensive. |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published %
PTFE reduces drag — widely cited by airboat operators for speed improvement, but no verified percentage vs. bare gelcoat. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published %
Drag reduction implies fuel savings but no published data. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
✗ Aquatic Toxicity
H400/H412 — very toxic to aquatic life. Not recommended near sensitive marine ecosystems or freshwater bodies. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Airboats, jon boats, aluminum hulls operating in grass, mud, sand, and shallow environments. Florida Everglades legacy product. Not optimized for open-water saltwater performance boating. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✗ Set Colors Only
Available in neutral/tan base with pigments sold separately. Color options: black, white, dark blue, dark green, olive drab. Not a clear coating. |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajetusa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | GatorGlide G2 GatorGlide | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
~$14
per linear ft materials only |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
Waterborne epoxy with friction-reducing additives. Available in G2 (slicker) and G4 (more abrasion-resistant) variants. Water-based one-part system for DIY application. |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
⚠ No Public SDS
No SDS publicly available. Waterborne epoxy — cannot confirm hazard classification without manufacturer SDS. |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. Zero delamination at speeds 150mph+. |
⚠ Caution — Very Slick
GatorGlide's own website warns 'Caution — Extremely Slippery.' Forum users report boats sliding off bunks by hand. G4 slightly less slick than G2. |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
✓ Yes
Waterborne formula. Has a dedicated freshwater Fouling Release (FR) variant for boats stored in fresh water year-round. |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
✓ DIY
Roll or spray. 3–5 coats recommended. Water-based, easy cleanup. |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over bare metals and existing bottom paints with recommended roller. |
⚠ Somewhat
Waterborne epoxy levels reasonably well. Touch-ups and additional coats easy to apply over existing coating. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Touch-ups easy — additional coats can be rolled directly over worn areas with minimal prep. Primarily an abrasion and drag product, not a marine fouling-release coating for wet-slip use. |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
⚠ Wears In Use
Flakes off in chunks when damaged — forum users note it wears faster than Fasco Steelflex on heavy-abrasion surfaces. Touch-ups straightforward. |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
Flakes and peels when worn. Easier to touch up than remove. Sanding required for full removal. |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published %
Drag reduction documented by airboat operators. No published speed percentage vs. bare gelcoat or other coatings. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published %
No published fuel economy data. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
⚠ Unknown — No SDS
No public SDS to confirm environmental classification. Waterborne formula may be lower risk than solvent-based competitors. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Airboats, mud boats, jon boats, duck boats, shallow-water craft. DIY-friendly. Also used on dump truck beds, equipment undercarriages. Not primarily designed for performance powerboats or wet-slip saltwater use. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✗ Set Colors Only
Available in multiple colors. White is nearly translucent over white substrates only. Not a clear coating — covers existing hull color. |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajetusa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | SeaJet Bioclean Eco Chugoku / SeaJet USA | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
Contact Dealer
No US retail price published |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
One-component silicone elastomer foul-release coating. Applied over SeaJet Tie Coat primer. Biocide-free. Made in USA by CMP Coatings / Chugoku Paints.⁶ |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
✓ Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc. Foul-release mechanism relies on ultra-smooth silicone surface — fouling doesn't adhere strongly and detaches when underway. |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. Zero delamination at speeds 150mph+. |
⚠ Speed Limit
Recommended for boats up to 40 knots. Silicone surface may be damaged by repeated high-speed trailer launching. Check with dealer for your use case. |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
✓ Yes
Biocide-free formula. Suitable for fresh, brackish, and saltwater environments. |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
⚠ Two-Step System
Tie Coat primer required before applying Bioclean Eco. Two-product system. Professional application recommended for optimal results. |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over bare metals and existing bottom paints with recommended roller. |
✓ Yes
Silicone-based coating self-levels to an ultra-smooth finish. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Self-cleaning when boat is underway — fouling detaches in motion. Inactive boats or vessels running under 5 knots need light sponging or low-pressure wash. Field review: 16 months in water with performance maintained.⁶ |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
✓ Several Seasons
Manufacturer claims multi-season lifespan. One UK field test showed coating intact and effective after 16 months continuous immersion.⁶ |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
Sand back to substrate required for full removal. Old coating comes off easily when hand-sanded with 80-grit (silicone gunks up sandpaper quickly). |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published %
Ultra-smooth silicone surface reduces drag but no published speed increase percentage found. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published %
Smoother hull implies fuel savings but no verified data published. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
✓ Eco Friendly
No biocides, no heavy metals. Biocide-free classification. Flammable liquid and vapour during application (H226) — standard paint handling precautions. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Sailboats, cruising yachts, and powerboats up to 40 knots in saltwater and freshwater. European market primary — limited US availability. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✓ Clear Topcoat
Bioclean Eco topcoat is clear. Applied over Tie Coat which comes in several colors — the visible finish is clear over the colored primer. |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajetusa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
| Hull Pro Armus Marine | Aquaphobix Dan Dillon, Islamorada FL | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Linear Ft |
~$160–$199
per linear ft installed |
Installer Quoted
No public pricing |
| Formula Type |
Ceramicized two-part epoxy. Non-sacrificial, non-ablative. Bonds directly to gelcoat and bare metal. |
Thermoplastic polyethylene-based polymer with silver-based Bio Coat antimicrobial additive. Applied via pneumatic heat gun at ~250°F — melted directly onto hull surface. Bond strength 800+ PSI.⁵ |
| Biocide Content |
✓ 100% Biocide Free
No copper, no zinc, no active biocide compounds. Clean Water Act compliant. |
⚠ Copper Free / Silver AM
No copper, no zinc, no traditional biocides. Contains silver-based antimicrobial additive (Bio Coat). Certified Marine Life Safe and Drinking Water Safe.⁵ |
| Trailer & Lift Safe |
✓ Yes
Smooth, not slick. Hard epoxy formula. Won't slip on bunks, straps, or forklifts. Zero delamination at speeds 150mph+. |
✓ Yes
800+ PSI bond strength. Zero delamination at speeds over 60 mph in testing. Hard thermoplastic surface handles haul-outs well.⁵ |
| Freshwater Compatible |
✓ Yes
Ideal for freshwater. No fouling chemicals, no lake regulations to worry about. |
✓ Yes
Marine Life Safe and Drinking Water Safe certifications support freshwater use. Tested on the Venetian Pool in Coral Gables (filled from city aquifer).⁵ |
| Installation |
✓ DIY Capable
Roll-on application. No sandblasting or epoxy primer required on bare gelcoat. Two-part mix, self-levels. |
✗ Certified Applicator Only
Requires specialized Italian-made pneumatic heat gun equipment. Flame application at ~250°F. NIOSH respirator, heat-resistant gloves, and face shield required. NOT DIY.⁵ |
| Self-Leveling |
✓ Yes
Levels over gelcoat and bare metals with recommended roller. |
✓ Yes
Thermoplastic fuses to hull surface creating a smooth, continuous protective layer. |
| Maintenance Requirements |
Freshwater: Minimal — power wash at end of season. Saltwater: Regular hull cleaning required. Hull diver every 2–6 weeks depending on fouling conditions. |
Fouling releases when boat is underway. Darker colors perform better as heated surface deters marine organism attachment. Light fouling can be wiped off.⁵ |
| Durability / Wear |
✓ 5+ Years
Hard epoxy — won't chip, crack, or peel. Power wash and acid wash resets the coating without degradation. Non-sacrificial. |
✓ 5–10 Years Claimed
5-year guarantee from applicator. 5–10 year lifespan claimed. Pool technology has 14+ years of field testing (since 2009). Marine boat applications are recent (2024–2025). Independent long-term boat data still accumulating. |
| Removal Process |
Power wash + acid wash resets the surface. Full removal requires sanding at 300–320 grit — but rarely needed given 5+ year lifespan. |
Unlike paint, does not ablate or peel. No removal timeline data for marine applications yet. Thermal reapplication or grinding required for removal. |
| Speed Increase |
↑ Up to 15%
Measured vs. bare gelcoat. Smooth ceramicized surface reduces drag. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published Data
Field tested at 60+ mph with zero delamination. Smooth surface reduces drag, but no published speed increase percentage vs. bare gelcoat. |
| Fuel Economy |
↑ Up to 20%
Reduced drag directly reduces fuel consumption. Source: Armus Marine field testing.¹ |
⚠ No Published Data
No published fuel economy data. Dan Dillon cites ROI through reduced haul-out frequency, not fuel savings. |
| Environmental Profile |
✓ Clean
100% biocide-free. No microplastics released on abrasion. Low VOC (<250 g/L). Not a marine pollutant per IMDG classification. |
✓ No Copper / No Ablation
Certified Marine Life Safe and Drinking Water Safe. Silver antimicrobial additive. |
| Designed For |
Powerboats, center consoles, pontoons, PWCs, and sailboats in freshwater, saltwater, and brackish environments. All vessel types kept on lifts, trailers, or slips. |
Performance powerboats, offshore center consoles, and commercial vessels. Currently available through certified applicators. |
| Finish Color |
✓ Clear
Completely clear finish. Hull color, gelcoat, and bottom paint beneath remain fully visible. Resale value protected — no mismatched bottom color. |
✗ Set Colors
Available in multiple colors. Dan Dillon recommends darker colors (black, dark blue) as the heated surface deters marine organism attachment more effectively than light colors.⁵ |
1. Speed and fuel economy figures based on Armus Marine field testing. Individual results vary by vessel type, water conditions, and maintenance schedule.
2. Hull Maxx SDS: NASCO Worldwide — classified as not a hazardous substance or mixture under consumer product exemption from OSHA HCS (29 CFR 1910.1200). Source: nascoworldwide.com.
3. Hull Maxx real-world performance and removal: user reports from The Hull Truth forum, multiple threads 2022–2025. thehulltruth.com. Removal cost ($1,700+), trailer slipping incidents, and marina refusals reported by multiple independent users.
4. SuperSlick (Fasco #9XN2000) SDS, Part 2: H400 Very toxic to aquatic life, H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. DANGER signal word. Source: fascoepoxies.com/sds.
5. Aquaphobix chemistry and application process: Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 996 (Dan Dillon) and Ep. 1004 (Dan Dillon & Joe Solano of Ecofinish). tomrowlandpodcast.com/blog/996. No public SDS — industrial application system; documentation held by certified applicators.
6. SeaJet Bioclean Eco: silicone foul-release coating. Biocide-free. Source: seajet-usa.com. 16-month field review: Practical Boat Owner, March 2025.
7. Gtechniq Marine Ceramic Base: 0.5–0.7ml per sq ft coverage. Designed for above-waterline gelcoat protection only. Source: gtechniq.com. GatorGlide pricing: gatorglide.com/shop. No public GatorGlide SDS available.
Full Protocol — Divers & Installers
Hull Cleaning & Hull Diver Instructions
Step-by-step diver instructions, pull-and-reset checklist, tool recommendations, frequency guidance, and a downloadable diver reference card — everything needed to maintain Hull Pro correctly and keep your warranty intact.
Ready to Protect Your Hull?
Not sure if Hull Pro is the right fit for your saltwater setup? Contact us before you buy — we'll give you a straight answer.