Seahawk Paints Dewaxers & Strippers
Seahawk Paints Dewaxers & Strippers: Marine-Grade Surface Prep Done Right
Before any quality bottom paint or antifouling coating can bond properly, the hull surface must be clean, wax-free, and free of old paint buildup. Seahawk Paints — a family-owned Florida manufacturer with a history stretching back to 1978 — brings the same exacting standards found in their legendary antifouling coatings to their line of dewaxers and strippers. These surface-prep products are purpose-built for the marine environment, where adhesion failures aren't just inconvenient — they can mean seasons of fouling, blistering, and costly rework.
The S-90 De-Waxing Etch & Cleaner
One of the two cornerstones of Seahawk's dewaxer and stripper lineup is the S-90 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Dewaxer. This water-based, low-VOC concentrated formula is engineered for deep-penetrating action on wax, oil residues, surface soiling contaminants, and even mold spores. Rather than relying on aggressive abrasion, the S-90 uses a penetrating chemical action that lifts embedded contaminants from fiberglass gelcoat and other marine substrates — effectively eliminating the need for sanding in many prep scenarios. For boaters switching paint systems or laying down fresh antifouling on a new hull, the S-90 provides a clean, properly etched surface that promotes maximum coating adhesion.
Marine Paint Stripper 1280
When the job calls for removing accumulated layers of old bottom paint, Seahawk's Marine Paint Stripper (Model 1280) steps in with serious capability. This is a next-generation marine paint remover formulated to be simultaneously powerful and responsible. Its environmentally safe formula is biodegradable, nonflammable, and low odor — and critically, it contains no methylene chloride or other harsh solvents that have raised health and environmental concerns across the boating industry.
The 1280 Stripper is designed to tackle the full spectrum of marine coatings. It removes copper-based antifoulings, enamels, teak oil finishes, urethanes, rubber-based deck paints, latex, and lacquers. Even better, it is capable of removing 10 or more thick layers in a single application. The formula stays wet and active for 24 hours or more, allowing for extended dwell times on heavily coated hulls without the need for constant reapplication. It can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed, and requires no neutralization thanks to its neutral pH — simplifying the cleanup process considerably.
Importantly, the 1280 is formulated to be safe across a wide range of substrates. It will not damage gelcoat or fiberglass, does not pit or corrode aluminum or other metals, and is safe on all wood surfaces — including hardwoods, as it does not raise or darken the grain. Coverage runs approximately 100–125 square feet per gallon when applied at thinner coat thicknesses, making it a practical choice for production yards and serious DIY boaters alike.
Why Seahawk for Surface Prep?
Seahawk's approach to dewaxers and strippers reflects the same philosophy behind all of their marine coatings: use only premium-grade raw materials, formulate for the specific demands of the saltwater environment, and manufacture every product to exact specifications in their own facility. For boaters and yard professionals who rely on Seahawk's antifouling systems, using Seahawk's own surface prep products ensures chemical compatibility and the best possible foundation for a lasting paint job.
- Environmentally responsible: Biodegradable, nonflammable, and free of methylene chloride and harsh solvents
- Substrate safe: Will not damage gelcoat, fiberglass, aluminum, metals, or wood surfaces
- Broad coating removal: Works on antifoulings, enamels, urethanes, varnishes, lacquers, and more
- Extended working time: Paint Stripper 1280 stays active for 24+ hours on heavily coated hulls
- Flexible application: Can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed; no neutralization step required
- Low VOC dewaxing: The S-90 is water-based and concentrated for deep-cleaning without sanding
