So, as we're in the home stretch on our Mill Creek 16.5 Hybrid, a new debate has arisen. If we paint the interior (looking likely, first boat scars are a bit much) should we do that before gluing the deck on? Seems like that would make sense, although I expect some epoxy run-off when we clamp the deck down. I saw one picture in the construction gallery that showed that approach but just want to be sure before we tackle the next really big stage.
I painted the interior before adding the decks, this gives greater access to akward corners. Also if you add hatches the forward and aft areas will have to be painted also and with the deck on access is very limited.
You painted the hatch areas? I was planning on leaving those "raw" - figure they don't need UV protection as the cover will be on 99% of the time. Or am I crazy?
It's so much easier to paint before the decks go on. My method has always been to tape wax paper to the underside of any crossmembers that will be having decks glued on. You catch any dripping epoxy, and the wax paper easily peels off as soon as your done. Then lie down inside and clean up all the corners with a brush.
You can always cut and tape up a large piece of painters plastic to just lay over the floor too. just a bigger waste of material and a bit more time consuming, but it still works.
Good Luck !!