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From backyard shed to industry benchmark
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How Metan Marine restores the world’s most exclusive vessels with Awlgrip.
Nearly three decades ago, former trainee car mechanic Mike Borrelli launched Metan Marine from a shrink-wrap shed in his backyard. Inspired by his time as a mate aboard a fishing boat in Scituate, Massachusetts, Mike teamed up with his father and a friend to turn his passion into a business.
Today, Metan Marine is one of the most sought-after boat restoration companies in the United States. The company now operates from a 25,000sqft facility and restores vessels for clients around the world.
With US$100,000 spray booths and expert craftsmanship, all documented for thousands of loyal YouTube subscribers, Metan Marine has become synonymous with quality and precision. For Mike, one constant has been crucial to his success from the very beginning: Awlgrip® coatings.
“I have always used Awlgrip for all my boats. I will never forget the late Steve Smith pulling into my driveway on my second project. He was an absolute book of knowledge and such a kind gentleman,” Mike said.
“I was used to the automotive industry, where it was base coat, clearcoat and enamel over it. Steve took the time to explain the difference between linear urethanes and acrylic urethane, and how the clear rises to the surface during the cure process.”
Mike quickly saw the benefits of switching to Awlgrip premium polyurethane finishes, known for their ease of application and outstanding gloss retention.
“For years you could not wet sand and buff using linear urethane finishes because you would break the surface,” he said. “Awlcraft 2000 changed that, by allowing the new coat to melt into the previous layer during wet sanding, enabling polishing to the point you would not even know the repair is there.”
Today, Mike applies the latest topcoat technology, Awlcraft® 3000, in combination with AkzoNobel’s advanced colour platform to deliver flawless results.
“We have just completed one of the longest paint runs ever, using both spray booths on five projects. The feedback on the Awlgrip finish and durability has been unbelievable.”
From humble beginnings to international acclaim, Metan Marine’s journey is one of grit, innovation and a commitment to excellence, supported by the reliability and performance of Awlgrip coatings.
“Awlgrip has been with us from day one. It is more than a product. It is a partnership that allows us to deliver the best possible results for our customers.”
