Non-Skid Refinishing with KiwiGrip

Learn tips and tricks to apply KiwiGrip, a Practical Sailor recommended non-skid coating, for a professional finish.

By
Bert Vermeer
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You can apply KiwiGrip in section-by-section stages, so you don't have to tiptoe around drying surfaces. (Photo/ Bert Vermeer)
You can apply KiwiGrip in section-by-section stages, so you don't have to tiptoe around drying surfaces. Here an old roller tray is used to rest the texture roller in, while the brush and can of KiwiGrip paint is ready to be applied. (Photo/ Bert Vermeer)

Like most sailboats from the heyday of factory production in the 70s and 80s, our 1978 Islander Bahama came with a textured non-skid gelcoat deck, with a pattern designed to provide traction in all conditions. More expensive boats of the era came with glued-on rubber sheets with a diamond pattern. TreadmasterTM comes to mind. Even more expensive boats had teak decks. Our deck was basic gelcoat, and it was starting to appear somewhat aged. It was time to take action.

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Non-Skid Refinishing with KiwiGrip
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Bert Vermeer
Bert Vermeer
As a coastal cruise (and occasional racer & ocean crosser), Bert Vermeer has sailed the coast of British Columbia for over 40 years. With his wife Carey & daughter Nicky (and eventually granddaughter Natasha) in tow, Bert has gained an appreciation for the fabulous cruising grounds of the Canadian west coast. Based on his experience as a hands-on boater, he established a marine based business after completing his police career. Bert stays busy during the winter months dabbling in You Tube sailing videos and writing tales of summer adventures, awaiting blue skies and warm winds.

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