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Marine Recommendations

The cosmetic maintenance and upkeep of the exterior surfaces of your vessel are as important factors in determining the preservation of your investment. A vessel that looks neglected on the outside will give the impression of being neglected internally as well. The detrimental effects of the sun and atmosphere and marine environment will in a few years cause irreversible damage to the finish and external hardware of a yacht. The effects of the sun with its intense UV rays coupled with the sediment from dirt and pollution in the air and salt from the sea cause, over time, the exterior finish to become chalky and porous and exterior metals to oxidize and corrode. For this reason it is important to keep the exterior clean and sealed with a high quality wax. The vessel should be washed frequently with a mild boat or auto soap to remove these deposits from the surface, this will help to preserve the wax or sealant and extend its life. Waxing should be done regularly because the sealants available do not last more than a couple of months. We use a Teflon Polymer sealant that exceeds most expectations, it also contains a very fine polish for a mirror like finish.

When gel coat has not been maintained properly it will develop a dull, chalky or textured finish. Once this happens, the surface must be brought (as close as possible) to its original condition before it can be sealed or waxed. There are many ways to accomplish this and they vary with the degree of deterioration. Gel coat is a thick (up to 40mils), semi-porous, UV resistant surface made up primarily of polyester resin. Due to its thickness, it can be re-polished to its original condition as long as the UV damage has not penetrated past the first few surface layers.

Marine fouling is a common problem with all boaters. A properly prepared and applied bottom paint job should eliminate slime and barnacles as a boating hassle. Without proper anti-fouling treatment the bottom of your boat can look like an underwater garden. Anti-fouling, or bottom painting, your boat can help keep your boat in tip-top shape. Anti-fouling every 18-24 months can keep your boat free of barnacles by protecting your hull.

How often should I have my bottom cleaned? That's the question asked the most and the answer is simple, when it needs it! But when it needs it depends on a number of things including the condition of your bottom paint, the temperature of the water as well as how clean or dirty the water is and how salty it is, and how often the boat is taken out of the slip.