Why You Need Them

All boat finishes — including gelcoat, varnish, paint and applied graphics — are subject to degradation from the effects of dirt, oils, contamination and the UV content of sunlight. In the absence of regular cleaning and the application of some kind of protection, the finish will soon deteriorate, taking the boat’s appearance and resale value down along with it. Top surfaces that get direct sun, like foredecks, require the most attention. Hull sides and surfaces under cover require less. Dark gelcoat colors will chalk out and fade more quickly because they lack the natural UV resistance of white or lighter colors, but all will need regular maintenance to retain their appearance.


What You Need To Know
 
There are several types of products you can use in maintaining the finish of your boat. Cleaners and rubbing compounds contain a very fine abrasive to aid in removing dirt and the residue of deteriorating gelcoat. They can be used to buff the surface to a high gloss, but must be used carefully to avoid damage — especially when used with a power buffer or polisher. The use of cleaners is a necessary preparatory step for badly faded or chalked-out gelcoat surfaces before applying a final finish. Polishes usually contain a cleaner and some sort of agent  — like wax or teflon — that will leave a protective coat on the surfaces. In many cases, they’re both the best and easiest products to use for regular maintenance. Waxes like carnauba have an excellent reputation for longevity when applied as a final finish, but are usually more difficult to apply and buff out than polishes. Sealers, applied to previously polished clean surfaces, offer a high sheen and may also provide protection from UV light rays.


The Final Word

No product or process can guarantee complete and lasting protection over the course of a season, especially in the blazing sun of the tropics. Constant renewal of the protection with whatever product or process you choose is the only option, but you can extend the benefits of your hard work by using as little detergent as possible when washing the boat. Also, keep in mind that products containing abrasives are effective and sometimes necessary for use on gelcoat, but may not be appropriate for surfaces that have been painted with AWLGRIP or IMRON. Those types of specialty finishes should be maintained according to their manufacturers’ instructions.