Non-Skid Paint & Additive

Why Non-Skid Paint & Additives Matter on the Water

A wet boat deck is one of the most treacherous surfaces a mariner can encounter. Whether you're navigating saltwater spray on an offshore run or stepping out onto a rain-slicked dock, footing is everything. Non-skid paint and additives exist to solve this problem permanently — transforming smooth, glossy surfaces into high-traction, grip-friendly zones that help prevent dangerous slips and falls.

As any experienced boater knows, safety gear doesn't end at life jackets and flares. The deck itself is a critical piece of safety equipment, and the right coating can make an enormous difference. Non-skid products from Interlux Paint and other marine-grade manufacturers are engineered specifically to withstand the punishing combination of UV exposure, saltwater, heavy foot traffic, and temperature extremes that can cause lesser coatings to fail.

Pre-Mixed Paints vs. Additives: Understanding Your Options

The non-skid category divides broadly into two approaches, each with distinct advantages depending on your project:

• Pre-mixed non-skid paints come ready to apply straight from the can, with grip-enhancing particles already incorporated into the formula. These are ideal for DIY boaters who want a consistent, foolproof result with minimal preparation.
• Non-skid additives are particles — typically fine polymeric spheres, silica, or mineral granules — that you mix into your existing topside or deck paint. This approach lets you match a custom color while controlling the level of texture and grip for a tailored finish.

The texture you choose matters too. Finer grits are more comfortable underfoot and better suited for areas where you walk barefoot or sit, while coarser grits deliver aggressive traction on working decks, ramps, swim platforms, and steps where maximum grip is the priority.

Key Considerations When Shopping Non-Skid Coatings

Before selecting a product, there are a few important factors to weigh:

• Surface compatibility: Most marine non-skid paints are formulated to bond with fiberglass, wood, metal, and previously painted surfaces, but always confirm the substrate is appropriate for your chosen product.
• Durability: Look for coatings with UV stabilizers and resistance to saltwater, fuel, and chemicals. The coating should maintain its grip properties through years of heavy use without flaking or losing its texture aggregate.
• Finish and aesthetics: Non-skid coatings often feature a low-sheen finish to reduce blinding sun glare off the deck — a practical safety benefit in its own right. Many products are available in a range of colors to complement your vessel's existing paint scheme.
• Application method: Most products apply by brush or roller in one to two coats, making them accessible for do-it-yourself maintenance. Proper surface prep — including cleaning, sanding, and priming as needed — is essential for maximum adhesion and longevity.

Interlux Paint: A Trusted Name in Marine Non-Skid

Interlux Paint is one of the marine industry's most recognized coating brands, with a history dating back to 1881. Their Interdeck line is among the most trusted non-skid solutions on the water — a ready-to-use, one-part polyurethane formula that contains a fine mineral aggregate for reliable slip resistance, a tough resin for wear protection, and a low-sheen finish that cuts down on deck glare. Interlux also offers Intergrip, a standalone non-skid additive made of very fine polymeric spheres that can be stirred into compatible topside paints to create custom non-skid zones without altering the base color significantly. Whether you're refreshing a worn cockpit sole or protecting a new fiberglass deck, Interlux's range of non-skid products covers the full spectrum of marine applications.