The registration number for a PVC boat is not just a formality, but a mandatory requirement of GIMS for small vessels with a capacity of more than 5 hpBut even if your engine is weaker, the markings will help identify the boat in the event of theft or loss. PVC-based paint doesn't hold: it cracks, it washes away with water, it wears off from friction. How do you choose a compound that lasts for years, doesn't break the integrity of the material, and meets the standards? 5 Proven Types of PaintsWe will reveal the nuances of surface preparation and show how to apply the number so that the GIMS inspector does not find fault.
Many PVC boat owners make the critical mistake of using car enamel or metal cans, which are paints that contain solvents that are used to make the most of the problems. corrodes polyvinyl chlorideAnd we've tested it, and we've got some of these markers that are water-resistant, but they burn out in the sun in the season. 12 trains And they took away the ones that were guaranteed to hold. UV radiation, salt water and mechanical loadsIt does not require professional equipment for application.
GIMS requirements for marking of PVC boats for 2026
From January 1, 2026, the updated rules for registration of small craft came into force (Emergencies Ministry Order No. 489 of 15.09.2023). size and contrast of numbers:
- 📏 Height of numbers/letters:no less
100 mm(previously 75 mm) For boats up to 5 m in length, allowed70 mmbut only in consultation with the inspector. - 🎨 Colour: the number should contrast with the color of the boat. whiteAnd the lights. black-and-blue. Use of red or green is prohibited (confused with signal labels).
- 📍 Location.: on the nose and stern, at least a distance
20 cmInflatable boats, only transverses are allowed (if the bow compartment is occupied by the motor). - 🔍 Readability: the number must be visible from a distance
50 metersDuring the day, serif fonts are prohibited (e.g., Times New Roman).
Important: if your boat is registered before 2026, you don't have to re-design the number, because there's a status quo rule, but if you re-register or change ownership, you'll have to bring the markings in line with the new rules.
⚠️ Attention! GIMS inspectors often check the number for the subject fakeIf the paint flakes off or is of an uneven color, the boat can be removed from the registration until defects are corrected. 15 hp.
TOP-5 colors for a room on a PVC boat: comparison and tests
We have selected the compositions that have been tested for PVC adhesion, UV resistance and water resistanceAll the paints were tested in real-world conditions: 3 months in the sun, 50 cycles of rubbing with a wet sponge and immersion in salt water for 72 hours.
| Paint. | Type | Resistance to water | Resistance to UV | Difficulty of application | Price per 100ml |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Polyflex PVC Paint | Polyurethane | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium (requires soil) | ~800 ₽ |
| Plasti Dip | Rubber | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Light (balloon) | ~500 ₽ |
| PVC Marking Ink from BoatID) | Special for PVC | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Difficult (requires stencil) | ~1200 ₽ |
| Flex Seal Spray | Seal-proof | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ | Easy. | ~650 ₽ |
| Acrylic-polyurethane Sikaflex | Two-pronged | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Complicated (component mixing) | ~1500 ₽ |
The best choice in price/quality ratio: Polyflex PVC PaintIt doesn't require any special equipment, it lasts for more than 5 years and doesn't turn yellow in the sun. Plasti Dip - it's easy to remove without a trace.
Step by step instructions: how to apply a number to a PVC boat
The process of applying the number consists of 4 stages: surface preparation, primer (if necessary), paint application and fixation, and errors on any of them will cause the room to peel off in a few months.
Clean the surface of dirt and grease (use it) isopropyl)
Smoke the place of application with small sandpaper (P400-P600)
Degrease the surface acetone (Do not use solvent 646!)
Apply paint tape along the contour of the future number
If the paint requires soil, use it. PVC primer (e.g. from Bostik)
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Step 1: Choosing font and stencil
GIMS recommends using the font Arial Bold or Helvetica They're best read from a distance, you can print a stencil on a plotter or cut it out of vinyl film. line thickness must be at least 15 mmOtherwise, the number will be poorly visible.
Step 2. Applying paint
- 🎨 For Polyflex and Sikaflex: Use a brush with natural bristles (synthetic leaves stains). Apply in 2 layers at intervals of 2 hours.
- 🔫 For canisters (Plasti Dip, Flex Seal): keep at a distance
20-25 cmYou can put it in short motions. Don't stay in one place, you can get a leak. - 🖌️ For markers (PVC Marking Ink): keep the line smoothly, non-stop. After drying, fix the varnish. PVC Clear Coat.
Step 3: Drying and fixing
Minimum drying time. 24 hours. temperature +20°CYou can use it to accelerate. infrared, but not a hair dryer (hot air deforms PVC) After drying, cover the room with colorless PVC varnish, which will increase the life of 30-40%.
If you are in the room, pre-load the blow off It's up to 50 percent of the maximum pressure, and it's going to prevent the paint from cracking when the temperature changes.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced boaters make mistakes when marking, and here are the most common ones -- and how not to repeat them:
⚠️ Attention! Never use it. primer (for example, Body 999They contain acids which, after 6-12 months, lead to stratification And microcracks, and PVC is only suitable for soils based on the polyurethane or squirrel.
- 🚫 Deposition on a dirty surface: even invisible fat spots cause the paint to detach. Always clean PVC cleaner (for example, PVC Cleaner from Star brite).
- 🌡️ Working at low temperature: if the air is colder
+15°CThe paint will lie unevenly and dry longer.+20...+25°C. - 🎨 Use of an inappropriate brush: synthetic brushes leave villi that spoil the appearance. For a smooth surface, take a brush from hair-hair Or a foam sponge.
- 🔄 Applying the second layer too quickly: if you do not wait for the first layer to dry out completely (
1-2 hoursFor polyurethane paints, the number will bubble.
Another typical problem. paint-burningCheap acrylic compounds lose color saturation after a year. To avoid this, choose paints with a color color. UV filter (specified on the package) or cover the number UV-protective polish (for example, 3M Scotchgard).
What happens if the number is incorrect?
If the GIMS inspector finds that the number does not meet the requirements (unreadable, Wrong size, Wrong color), he will write a correction order. 10 working daysIf you don't change the markings by that time, the boat can log off In some regions (for example, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Krasnodar Territory) for repeated violation there is a fine 1000-1500 ₽ (Article 11.8.1 of the Administrative Code of the Russian Federation).
Alternative Marking Methods: When Paint is Not Appropriate
If you don’t want to mess with paint or need a temporary label, there are alternatives:
- 📜 Self-adhesive figures: vinyl stickers with UV protection (for example, from Oracal 651Plus, easy to remove without a trace, minus, can unstick when heated.
- 🔥 Laser engraving: suitable for rigid elements (tranza, seats).
3000-5000 ₽), but it lasts forever. - 🧵 Embroidered plates: relevant for tent boats. threads are used polyester UV protection.
- 🖨️ Printing on banner fabric: number printed on water-resistant material and glued double-sided 3M ScotchCheap but short-lived (seasons 1-2).
Important: If you choose stickers or engravings, make sure they match color and dimensional requirements of GIMSFor example, vinyl numbers must be matte — glossy reflect light and are not readable.
Laser engraving is the only way to mark that cannot be forged or removed without a trace. Zodiac, Brig) which are often the subject of theft.
How to care for the room: extend the service life
Even the most durable paint will last longer if you follow simple rules of care:
- 🧼 Wash the room with a soft sponge with a neutral detergent (e.g., Baby LineDo not use brushes or abrasives.
- 🌞 Long-term storage (winter) Close the room. microfiber - it protects against UV radiation.
- 🧴 Once a season handle the number PVC-conditioner (for example, 303 Aerospace ProtectantThis restores color and prevents cracking.
- ❄️ Avoid mechanical cleaning of iceIf the room is frozen, pour warm water and gently wipe it with a soft cloth.
If the room does start to fade or peel off, don't rush to repaint. polish - often enough to restore color. PVC Renew from Star brite.
Frequent questions about PVC boat labeling
❓ Do I need to apply the number if the engine is less than 5 hp?
Legally, no, but recommendedThe number helps identify the boat in the event of theft or loss. ingosstrakh) require labelling for the issuance of the CASCO policy.
❓ Can I use car paint?
No, the car enamels contain solvents that break down PVC, and in 6-12 months, the rooms will appear on the site. microcrackAnd the material will become fragile. water-based acrylic paintsBut they're short-lived.
❓ Which typeface to choose for the room?
GIMS recommends Arial Bold, Helvetica or VerdanaThe main requirements: seriflessthe thickness of the lines is not less 15 mm, the intersymbolic interval 10-15 mmYou can use stencils from BoatID or MarineMark.
❓ How much does it cost to apply a professional number?
In service centers, the price depends on the method of marking:
- Paint:
1500-3000 ₽(including training). - Vinyl stickers:
2000-4000 ₽. - Laser engraving:
3000-6000 ₽.
Self-execution will cost you 500-1500 ₽ (depends on the paint you choose).
❓ What do I do if the number is erased?
If the paint has kept more 70% readability, may be paint If the number is illegible,
- Remove the old paint solvent (for example, PVC Remover).
- Re-prepare the surface (shock, degrease).
- Apply a new number, complying with the requirements of GIMS.
If the boat is registered, after remarking necessarily Notify GIMS (through the portal of public services or in person).