FAQ
How does Maxiglide OGR prevent bio-fouling?
Maxiglide contains no copper, tin or zinc. Maxiglide OGR also does NOT contain any type of biocide or pesticide. Instead of the old school way of leaching toxicants that persist in the marine environment, Maxiglide employs a patent pending method of repelling the motile bacteria that attracts attachment of the larger bio-fouling organisms and secondly our naturally derived OGR actually interferes with the calcium secretions of the bio-fouler from the cell membrane that forms the "glue" that allows for the attachment. No zinc, copper, tin, alien biocides, pesticides or any compounds that can accumulate in the environment in the sediment or aquatic life.
What are the advantages of the Maxiglide OGR over copper based paints?
Because Maxiglide OGR is copper free, there is no galvanic reaction and is safe on all substrates including aluminum, steel, fiberglass and wood. Our Maxiglide colors are true and bright with no orange copper to influence the color brightness. Our White is BRIGHT WHITE, and will not discolor or stain. Unlike copper-based paints, with Maxiglide OGR one part vinyl resin there is not a critical coat-to-launch time and your boat can be repeatedly hauled and launched without concern for loss of fouling performance and because our paint is very hard and durable, you will not find loss of paint due to strap hauling marks as is common with other "soft" bottom paints.
What existing bottom paints are Maxiglide OGR compatible over?
Both Maxiglide OGR and Maxiglide OGR Epoxy are compatible over most existing non-ablative bottom systems. Existing coating must exhibit good adhesion before application of the Maxiglide OGR. Do not apply over soft ablative paints or release coatings.
What primer do I need for my boat?
The Maxiglide OGR bottoms paints are self-priming and do not need a primer or barrier coat. This is a major cost saving factor and allows for quicker return of your boat to the water. Your friendly marina will appreciate this as well (less time tying up his rack.)
Will Maxiglide OGR work in both salt and fresh waters?
Yes. Both types of the Maxiglide OGR are compatible on boats used in both fresh and salt waters.
Are Maxiglide Bottom Paints approved for use by the US EPA and other government agencies?
The naturally derived Organic Growth Repellents are on the EPA list of non-regulated compounds as safe and are therefore approved for use. The base paints have for many years been authorized for use by the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard.
How do I apply Maxiglide OGR paints?
Maxiglide OGR are applied using the traditional painting methods of brush, roller or spray. Surface preparation is typical of most bottom paints, lightly sand (220 grit), thoroughly clean surface to be painted, apply one coat of the paint and allow for adequate drying time. Second coats of paint can be then applied, but is usually not necessary.
What is the service life of Maxiglide OGR?
Maxiglide OGR will generally provide 36+ months of bio-fouling protection following recommended painting guidelines. The dry film thickness of the paint is directly proportional to service life. Maxiglide recommends repainting every second year for best performance. One coat is all that is needed.
What conditions affect service life?
The Maxiglide OGR dries to a very hard and durable surface. One coat of 5 to 7 mils will provide the fore-mentioned longevity of 36+ months. Choice of paint color does NOT affect performance and water line UV exposure has minimal affect. Softer paints and ablative coatings are affected by water temperature, UV exposure, salinity, oxygen content, etc. NOT Maxiglide OGR.
Why are extra coats of paint sometimes recommended at the waterline by other paint brands?
The waterline area of your boat is exposed to intense UV sunlight, about one foot down into the water. Due to the photoactive nature of some of the soft ablative bottom paints, these areas tend to wear away faster. This not a concern of boat owners using our Maxiglide OGR, one even coating over the boat bottom provides effective, long-lasting protection.
Why do some bottom paints emphasize the importance to time the application of the first coat of AF paint over the last coat of primer?
With less technologically advanced painting systems, this is important in order for the primer and AF paint to chemically bond together. Any deviation or miscalculation can result in unsightly paint checking and solvent entrapment or in some case complete adhesion failure. Maxiglide OGR has the convenience of being self-priming and there are many less problems concerning improper application. Maxiglide OGR is suitable for use by most boat owners for self-application.
How can I easily remove heavy build-up of old existing paint off my boat hull?
Any sanding or use of paint removers should only be used in conjunction with the regulations advised by the U.S. E.P.A. and other state and local concerned agencies. It would be best to obtain guidelines from these fore-mentioned agencies before removing old bottom paint that may contain copper, zinc, tin, or other bio-hazard compounds.
Why is the Maxiglide OGR lighter in weight than traditional copper-based bottom paints and can provide an edge for racing sailboats?
Yes, the Maxiglide OGR does not contain copper which is a very dense metal and a typical copper based paint is up to 60% copper by dry weight. The dry weight of the Maxiglide OGR can be up to 50% lighter than copper based bottom paints. The dry weight of the Maxiglide OGR is about 8 pounds per gallon depending on application thickness.
How can I be sure I am applying the correct wet film thickness of bottom paint?
The use of a wet thickness gauge is an easy way to ensure proper wet film thickness of bottom paint. During the painting process the gauge is placed directly into the paint and then removed. The paint remaining on the highest tooth represents the wet film thickness in mils or microns. With Maxiglide OGR using the paint with minimal thinner will ensure proper the thickness of 5 to 7 mils.
What thinner can I use to thin Maxiglide OGR?
The Maxiglide OGR Epoxy is best thinned with xylene or Aromatic 100 up to 10% when necessary to spray or when applying at temperatures above 70oF. For the single component vinyl resin OGR we recommend butyl acetate. In all cases, thinning is generally not recommended to exceed 10-20% by volume. When thinning paints the resulting dry film thickness will be reduced due to the additional solvent added. When thinning bottom paints, additional coat may be required to achieve optimal service life.
Does Maxiglide offer a warranty?
Yes, Maxiglide Products Inc. warranty is limited to the refund of the purchase price or replacement of the product at Maxiglide's option. Documented proof of proper surface preparation, paint application and failure is required for warranty considerations.
Where can I purchase Maxiglide products?
Watch for an announcement on this website for when and where Maxiglide OGR Marine Bottom Paints will be available for sale.