Boat Detailing Article

[sprink56]

I stumbled across this article and found it to be informative...perhaps others will also...

http://www.mobileworks.com/boatdetailing.html

 

[dpvandy01]

this one seem a bit too agressive for me...... degreaser? or am I wrong

Canvas:
Start the detailing process by powerwashing the boat from top to bottom. After the boat is rid of bugs, dirt, spider dropping, and any other element, presoak the boats canvas with a heavy duty degreaser and let sit for 2 minutes. After the degreaser has had time to dwell and dissolve the dirt, scrub the entire canvas with a boat brush. Rinse the canvas and watch all the trapped in dirt wash down the sides. When the boat is completely washed, you'll need to apply a waterproofing product to protect the fabric from rain and stains.

 

[sprink56]

I agree. I think some of this applies to the pre "Sunbrella" days when what we refer to as "canvas" really was canvas.

I read with interest the part where he suggests a sealer over a wax. I guess if you were really looking for the ultimate shine you could put carnuba on top of the sealer with the understanding that it wouldn't last very long.

I guess due to the porosity of Gel Coat a real good polymer-sealer is the best way to go...then renew it often like every 3~6 months...at least in my climate.

 

[JV II]

Anyone use a paintbrush to put muriatic acid on the hull to remove boat scum at the waterline? I'd think that it would be too harsh for the gelcoat.

I'm thinking of spraying muritic acid on my outdrives to remove the calcium bases that remain of the barnicles. Those little white circles. I want to paint on a coat of outdrive antifouling paint this season.

 

[Beer Thirty]

Anyone use a paintbrush to put muriatic acid on the hull to remove boat scum at the waterline? I'd think that it would be too harsh for the gelcoat.

I detailed boats back in high school and we did this alot. But instead of a paint brush we used a regular like boat washing brush. Never had any problems. although i was only at that marina for one summer. :huh:

 

[H2ONUT]

I have used Greased Lightning and Simple Green on the Sunbrella with a pressure washer. Works very good. 3 seasons in a row on the tops that came with the boat. They are now 6 years old and still look great. Follow it up with 3 light coats of waterproofing.

No need for acid either. This stuff works great, just a light coat and it disolves instantly.

 

[Nehalennia]

I've pressure washed the Sunbrella canvas with bleach and let it soak for a couple of minutes.
Here's my results from last year about this time.
Canvas before and after