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Antifouling Primers and Tie Coats

Buy primers and tiecoats for anti-fouling topcoats, for use on marine craft and off-shore structures, at Rawlins Paints. Use anti-fouling primers to prepare wood, GRP, steel, and ferro cement properly for overcoating with a suitable anti-fouling topcoat, for use above and below the waterline. From renowned marine paint specialists - Flag, Hempel, International, Jotun, PPG and Teamac - our antifouling primers and tie-coats can return crafts and structures back into service in as little as 48 hours for water immersion.

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Teamac Metaclor Antifouling Primer | Marine Protection

Teamac Metaclor Antifouling Primer

In Metallic Grey. Chlorinated rubber-based primer designed for protective coating. For wood, metal, and GRP, including marine structures, yachts, narrowboats, and cruisers. Incorporates Zinc Phosphate for enhanced protection. Reliable base coat for various antifouling systems.

Price £26.53 (incl. VAT)
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Jotun Vinyguard Silvergrey 88

Jotun Vinyguard Silvergrey 88

1 component physically drying vinyl coating that is fast drying and can be used as primer or mid coat in atmospheric and immersed environments. Suitable for properly prepared carbon steel substrates. Recommended for topside, deck and superstructure or as a tie coat for anti-fouling systems in the marine sector. Important! 5L Matt...

Price £42.31 (incl. VAT)
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Flag Multi-Purpose Metallic Primer | Marine Protection

Flag Multi-Purpose Metallic Primer

Flag Multi-Purpose Metallic Primer is a universal primer suitable for above and below the waterline on all substrates with good waterproofing and corrosion resisting performance. It is also suitable for use as a primer or barrier coat under Flag Antifouling Coatings and other traditional antifoulings. For use on boat hulls, topsides and...

Price £14.04 (incl. VAT)
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Jotun Safeguard Universal ES

Jotun Safeguard Universal ES

Jotun Safeguard Universal ES is a two component polyamide cured vinyl epoxy based coating. Specially designed as a tie coat between epoxy primers and antifouling systems but can be used as tie coat for a wide range of topcoats. To be used as tie coat in atmospheric and immersed environments.

Price £201.56 (incl. VAT)
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PPG SigmaCover 555 | Marine Anti-Fouling

PPG SigmaCover 555

PPG SigmaCover 555 is a two-component, polyamide-cured epoxy anticorrosive tiecoat, used as the final coat in epoxy underwater anticorrosive systems, with excellent adhesion for antifoulings. Excellent water resistance Good abrasion and impact resistance No induction time - 4 hours pot life 48 hours curing time before water immersion...

Price £246.43 (incl. VAT)
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PPG Sigma Vikote 18 | Chlorinated Rubber Primer & Sealer

PPG Sigma Vikote 18

PPG Sigma Vikote 18 is a high-build, aluminum pigmented chlorinated rubber primer/sealer. Offering excellent water resistance, resistance to well-designed/controlled cathodic protection and can be applied at temperatures down to –10°C (14°F). Anti-corrosive primer/sealer Unsaponifiable Fast-drying Tolerates a DFT up to 150 µm (6.0 mils)...

Price £221.06 (incl. VAT)
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International Intergard 263 | Marine Tiecoats

International Intergard 263

International Intergard 263, a two pack, tar free, epoxy tie coat for use between anticorrosives and either antifoulings or cosmetic finishes, ensuring maximum system adhesion and performance on outside shell vessel areas. Use as a sealer coat over Tributyltin (TBT) antifoulings For use at newbuilding, maintenance & repair or on board...

Price £421.02 (incl. VAT)
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Hempel Hempadur Tiecoat 49183 | Anticorrosive Two-Component Epoxy

Hempel Hempadur Tiecoat 49183

Hempadur Tiecoat 49183 is an anticorrosive two-component epoxy for atmospheric and immersion service, used as a "tiecoat" between epoxy and physically drying coatings. For immersion service, it can also replace a second anti-corrosive primer coat for the underwater coating system and at the same time act as "tiecoat" for antifouling. For...

Price £253.04 (incl. VAT)
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International Intersleek 717 | Marine Paint

International Intersleek 717

International Intersleek 717, is a two pack foul release system linkcoat. Enables application of the Intersleek 700 and Intersleek 900 foul release systems over SPC antifoulings For use at maintenance & repair Hard dry in as little as 3 hours (at 25°C) Dries down to 0°C in 24 hours Good application rate of 5.4 m²/litre at 100...

Price £810.25 (incl. VAT)
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International Intertuf 203 | Marine Paints

International Intertuf 203

International Intertuf 203, is a one pack, tar free vinyl anticorrosive which can be used at temperatures down to -5°C. As an anticorrosive for both above and below the waterline and also as a sealer coat over Tributyltin (TBT) antifoulings Suitable for use with controlled cathodic protection For use at newbuilding, maintenance &...

Price £745.14 (incl. VAT)
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Hempel Hempaprime Immerse 900

Hempel Hempaprime Immerse 900

Hempaprime Immerse 900 is a two-component, pure epoxy universal primer, which cures to a smooth, hard and tough coating with excellent resistance to seawater and abrasion. Use as a universal pure epoxy and self-primed high performance coating system for atmospheric or in-water service Intended for application with Hempaguard MaX system...

Price £451.19 (incl. VAT)
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Jotun MegaSealer

Jotun MegaSealer

Two-component, polyamide-cured vinyl epoxy designed as a tie coat. Available in buff. For aluminium, carbon steel, composite, and wood substrates. Semi-gloss finish. Resistant to submersion and wear. Professional use only.

Price £503.92 (incl. VAT)
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Reliable Protection with Antifouling Primers and Tie Coats


Antifouling primers and tie coats are vital components in the protection of marine vessels, offering a durable and effective solution for underwater and topside applications. Whether used on narrowboats, yachts, barges, or larger commercial vessels, these coatings are key to reducing biofouling, corrosion, and drag. By acting as a foundation layer, antifouling primers prepare surfaces for overcoating, while tie coats provide the necessary adhesion to antifouling topcoats. This layered system supports smoother hull surfaces, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced dry dock time.

When selecting marine paints, it is important to consider the specific challenges of the vessel’s environment - freshwater or saltwater, exposure levels, and hull material. This makes antifouling systems particularly valuable for vessels undergoing maintenance or refurbishment, as well as for new builds requiring long-term protection. These products ensure reliable performance across steel, fibreglass, and aluminium hulls, while meeting the demands of modern marine operations.

Antifouling Primers and Tie Coats FAQs


Can antifouling primers be used on dry-docked vessels left out of water for extended periods?

Yes, many antifouling primers are suitable for use on vessels that are stored or dry-docked for long durations. However, the surface must be properly cleaned and free from contaminants before application. Some antifouling products may require overcoating within a specific time window, so always check the technical data sheet and consult support if the vessel will remain out of water for several weeks or more.

What preparation is needed before applying a tie coat?

Before applying a tie coat, the antifouling primer should be fully cured and free from surface contaminants. This may include cleaning with fresh water, degreasing, and abrading if required. The specific preparation steps depend on the product system in use, so it's best to refer to manufacturer guidelines and speak with technical support to ensure full compatibility.

Are there temperature limitations when applying these coatings?

Yes, both antifouling primers and tie coats often have minimum and maximum temperature requirements for proper application and curing. These conditions can vary by product but typically range from 5°C to 35°C. Applying outside these parameters may affect adhesion, durability, and curing time. Always consult the product datasheet for exact limits and allow for weather conditions during application.

Can tie coats be used as stand-alone coatings?

No, tie coats are not intended as stand-alone finishes. Their purpose is to provide a secure bond between an antifouling primer and a topcoat. Without an antifouling topcoat, the tie coat will not offer the protection or resistance needed in marine environments. It’s critical to follow the full coating system for optimal performance and lifespan.

How can I choose the right system for my vessel?

Choosing the correct antifouling system depends on factors like hull material, water type, vessel use, and maintenance schedule. Commercial vessels in saltwater environments, for instance, have different needs compared to leisure craft in freshwater. To ensure the correct product selection and avoid compatibility issues, contact the technical support team for tailored advice.