Boat maintenance is not something that many people think about until it is too late. However, the longer you wait to take care of your boat, the more problems will arise and make your time on the water less enjoyable. There are a few things that you can do now to keep your boat in good condition so that it lasts for years to come.
First, never store a wet boat for an extended period because moisture will create rust spots and lead to corrosion. If you know that you will not be using it for a long time, clean it and dry all the surfaces. It would be best if you also stored it under the right conditions.
This article will help you to know the most important factors to include in your boat maintenance checklist.
Boat Engine Maintenance
It is important to maintain your boat engine for it to last longer and help you navigate the waters with ease. A boat’s engine is its heart and soul; without it, there would be no chance of propulsion or powering any other mechanical components aboard the vessel. Therefore, all boat owners must understand what they need to do to keep it in the best shape.
The best thing about the engine is that you can always tell when it is not in the right condition. For instance, when it emits smoke or makes an unusual noise, you know that you need to fix something. Changing the oil, tightening some parts, and checking by an expert should be part of the maintenance process.
Boat Hull Maintenance
Maintaining a boat hull is not always easy. The key to having a successful experience with maintaining your boat hull is to do it as often as possible, following the right steps and doing what you can to prevent any damage from happening in the first place.
To clean the boat’s hull, try the following:
- Removing stubborn stains using vinegar
- Removing normal dirt using soap and water
- Scrubbing away dirt to make it even cleaner
- Wiping to keep it dry
- Cleaning it regularly can help you avoid most of the problems that you often experience.
Maintaining a Boat Deck
According to this local boat storage company, most people neglect a boat’s deck, yet it is an important part of the vessel. It’s the surface on which you set your feet, cast a fishing net, or cast bait for crabs. Because of that, you have to keep it as good as new.
You can protect the deck from damage by ensuring that objects with rough edges do not leave marks on it. It would help if you also cleaned it regularly because it is the area you use most. Simple cleaning methods are enough, and boat repair may be needed when it is damaged.
Taking Care of the Fiberglass
Boats are usually made of fiberglass and other synthetic materials but often have wooden surfaces. Wooden surfaces require maintenance to keep them from rotting or being eaten by insects. One of the most common mistakes owners make is not painting their boat every year with good marine paint before it starts to look old.
Waxing and polishing the fiberglass can make it last longer. It is also a way of making the boat look newer, even though you have been using it for years. To prevent the fiberglass from looking dull and chalky, keep the gelcoat shiny.
Electrical and Plumbing Boat Maintenance
Electrical and plumbing maintenance is the key to boat longevity. It’s not a coincidence that your engine will break down if you neglect regular oil changes or that your water pump won’t work properly without periodic inspection. Sometimes, people neglect this type of maintenance for too long, and it is why they cannot use their boats for long.
It’s easy for electrical and plumbing components in boats to wear out over time because of exposure to saltwater, sun, humidity, vibration, and other elements while at sea. These elements cannot be prevented because your boat will always be out in the water. However, when you return from your trips, use fresh water to rinse off the salt and other chemicals.
Marine Canvas Maintenance
Keeping boat canvas in good condition is important for two reasons. First, you want to protect the boat from damage when using it in water all the time. Second, you don’t want to be replacing and patching up your valuable sails or doing a major repair on them because of too much wear and tear on the fabric.
To keep the canvas in the best condition, ensure that it is always clean using soap and water. You should also prevent sun damage by applying sunscreen before you leave for your expeditions. While you go about your duties, ensure that the canvas is properly fitted so that strong winds do not rip it.
Upholstery and Vinyl Maintenance on a Boat
You can do some things to maintain the upholstery and vinyl of your boat so it stays looking great. You should first remove any dirt or stains with mild soap, water, and a soft cloth. When drying off the area, be sure to use a dry towel only.
Avoid using harsh chemicals like ammonia or bleach, as they will damage the surface of your upholstery. The aim is to ensure that you do not reduce its lifespan even as you keep it clean. You may want to check the stores for the best boat upholstery and vinyl cleaning products, especially those that can increase the lifespan of a boat.
Store your Boat Properly for Better Maintenance
After knowing everything about boat maintenance, you also need to know how to store it for more protection. You need a boat storage company that guarantees the safety of your items by protecting them from everything related to weather and marine conditions. That is the reason you should be looking for a company with the best boat storage facilities.