Awlgrip over International Primer and Undercoat?

[kimtrang]

After taking my topsides to fibreglass and applying at least 5 coats of International Interprotect and sanding with 180 grit, I'm ready to apply one coat of International Perfection undercoat, which I'll roll and tip using Redtree Mohair 3/16 short nap rollers and Redtree foam brushes.

The International technical assistance rep says the International primer and undercoat won't be a problem with Awlgrip. Is this correct or is it essential to apply a coat of Awlgrip 545 primer first?

[Pelagic]

There is no problem using international base coat (undercoat) prior to rolling on Awl grip Topcoat...
However, you should be using a quality sponge mini roller (Stanley) rather than a short nap roller https://www.pinterest.com/pin/466685580109543644/
With proper mixing and application you don't need to Tip, except at corners.

[kimtrang]

Thanks Pelagic. I actually misread Awlgrip Application guide. It mentions the mohair rollers and says that they are for enamel and varnish. Stanley oilers appear to unavailable here in Australia, but I can Redtree foam rollers from Whitworths Marine. I used the Redtree foam rollers on my last coat of Interprotect. They weren't much good with that primer as they detached from the roller and left a uneven finish. Hopefully the Awlgrip won't have as much solvent.

I bet those guys are a lot cheaper than the $35 an hour I'll be paying my tipper.

[Pelagic]

Hopefully your Redtree rollers will hold up. Be good to do a Test before committing yourself.
In anycase, your painter should be switching to a new roller about every 6 minutes to maintain a nice even flow.
My guys are very good and are able to keep an even pressure on both the fore and backstroke, so that no tipping is required.
With this type of topcoat, as it tacks off, the clear, separates from the color solids and migrates to the surface filling in any fine roller lines and giving you a beautiful spray finish.
Many inexperienced painters, overtip, instead of letting this electrochemical action take place during the tacking phase.

Yes, considerably less than $35/hr.