Repainting a mirror

This is a task I'm about to take on for someone else.  You can't possibly say how much it would cost without seeing the boat, because there are too many variables to take into account, plus you need to check all the wood underneath.  (I haven't assessed my job yet because I haven't had time to have a good look) Depending on what it's like it's possible all the old paint would have to come off, which takes time, then you have to build back up with primer, undercoats etc.

It also depend on what sort of finish you want to achieve and what materials you have used.  Really, it's a bit of a 'how long is a piece of string' type question - there is no hard and fast answer, certainly not a reliable one that can be given over the net.

I would also have to say that refurbing a mirror as I'm doing is not too onerous a task (provided there are no hidden nasties) and is well within the scope of a skilled DIYer.  You might well have to join a queue for a pro to do it, and many might not want to bother.

Whereabouts in the country are you?  I am off to Bala for a week but if you're local to me (Cambridge area) then I'll happily drop by and advise.

ps, I have no idea about baking paint, but I can turn out a nice sponge!


Edited by winging it

Originally posted by jgtsmith I have inherited a mirror dinghy which is now 30-40 years old and needs a re-paint as there are several patches of bare wood on the topsides and bottom. Can anyone advise how much a boat builder would charge for this? I've heard some builders "bake" the paint which makes it more brittle and might not suit teaching my son to sail? Any advice?

im not sure about boat builders baking anything, i know that when they apply gelcoat in the mould for a boat when the layup is setting the resin\catalyst reaction creates a lot of heat. A normal 2pack paint would be ideal as it is hard as nails, if not that then something like an international toplac paint.

Dan