Glass bead non-skid, was: Re: [MHml] Re: retro reflective paint

[multihulls at steamradio.com]

It's one of the most commonly used non-skids -- typically used in place of 
coarse sand as it will sand off much easier than sand (which will eat lots of 
sandpaper) -- and it will probably eventually have to be sanded to be redone 
or for repairs.  In my experience, it's been necessary to put a coat of paint 
over the top in order to insure good attachment to the deck.  You lose the 
high reflectivity, but I've found that the beads will break off the paint 
surface without it.  However I don't use a 2 part linear polyurethane on my 
decks.  A stronger paint like that may alleviate the problem and allow you to 
leave the beads uncoated.  Personally, I don't think it's a good idea though. 
 It seems to me that the extra brightness of the deck would hinder your night 
vision.  Sure would make your boat easy to spot, at night, from an 
airplane...whatever that's worth?

Glass beads are available from Sandblasting supply companies.  I use the next 
to coarsest available at my supplier -- Miami Silica Sand.  Cost is about $30 
for 50 lbs.

JP


In a message dated 3/20/01 11:37:45 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
roberthepler at yahoo.com writes:

<< I was thinking of doing the same thing; I hoped it would be a bit 
reflecive,
 just like you said.
 
 How does it work as non-skid?
 
 -Rob >>