Bottom blisters under the antifouling are osmotic — water has wicked into the laminate. Caught early it's a manageable repair. Ignored, it becomes a hull replacement.
What to Check
1
Pop one
If clear or vinegar-smelling fluid comes out, it's true osmosis. If it's dry, it's just paint blister — much cheaper fix.
2
Map the blistering
Photograph and mark every blister. Density tells us treatment scope.
3
Moisture meter test
Wet readings (over 15%) confirm laminate saturation. Boat needs to dry out before any repair.
4
Drying time
Wet hulls need to be hauled and dried 4–8 weeks (or kiln-dried) before barrier coat goes on.
When to Call Us
We do moisture surveys, blister repair, and full barrier-coat (epoxy) treatments. Catching it at first season saves $5K+ later.