Tips for Maintaining your Boat

Like anything else, the best way to care for your boat is to take preventative measures. Don’t wait until you can barely see your boat under all of the grime that has built up, to decide it needs a good cleaning. Wouldn’t you rather spend the nice summer day enjoying your boat instead of cleaning it?

Let’s start topside:
Because the surface of the boat is a gelcoat, it makes regular cleaning easy. This gelcoat can be cleaned with a mild or boat soap, and then rinsed thoroughly with fresh water to prevent build up of soap scum or water spots. Start at the bow and work your way back because boats drain from bow to stern. You can apply a coat of automotive or boat wax twice a year to maintain a nice shine and protect the gelcoat. Only apply to the parts that will not be walked to prevent slipping.
It is important to dry the canvas before storing your boat to avoid moisture damage and mold buildup. To wash the canvas use a dishwashing detergent and a soft scrub brush if necessary. Every so often, you should lubricate snaps with petroleum jelly and zippers with a paraffin wax. You should also periodically treat the canvas with a waterproofing solution to prevent break-down of the material.

Don’t do windows?
Glass windows can be cleaned with a glass cleaner or a water and vinegar solution. To prevent scratches apply a clear silicon spray with a soft cloth.
Vinyl windows should be cleaned with water because chemicals in cleaners can break down the vinyl. After cleaning apply a clear wax.
If you roll up vinyl windows, do it carefully to avoid scratching. Leaving them rolled up for long periods of time will lead to discoloration.

Have a seat:
Upholstery should be wiped down with a wet cloth, removing dirt and salt. Apply a vinyl upholstery cleaner with a damp cloth, rinse, and wipe off with a clean cloth. You should then use an upholstery wax that protects against UV damage. To get rid of nasty mildew stains, use a solution of one part ammonia to four parts water. Scrub the area with a soft or medium brush, and rinse with fresh water.

Secure the line:
Ropes can be damaged by salt, oil, and dirt. It is important to keep these maintained because they are used for many essential purposes. These should be checked regularly, and replaced if there is any sign of deterioration or tears. Because knotting causes access wear on the lines avoid this as much as possible.
Keep the ropes out of direct sunlight when not in use, and rinse them after each use. Ropes can be washed in a washing machine with a mild detergent. Be sure to place them inside a pillowcase first to avoid damage to the machine.

Fender Bender:
Bumpers take the beatings, poundings and sometimes crashes for the side of the boat. Because of this, they are bound to get dirty. Dirt, tar, and grease can be removed with a strong cleanser and scrubbing pad. When using tar remover, test a small area first to check that it is not too abrasive for the plastic.

Quick Tips:

• Do not use bleach; it can be too harsh on many of your boat parts

• Get in the habit of cleaning your boat each time you come in off the water.

• By cleaning more frequently, you will avoid an enormous cleaning job that could take a whole beautiful day.