Taking care of a boat can be challenging. From keeping it clean to managing the upkeep, boat maintenance requires a lot of dedication. Thankfully, with a little bit of research and planning, taking care of a boat doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Keep reading for some essential tips on caring for your boat.
Wash Your Boat
Every month or so, wash your boat with a mild soap and water mixture. Grime is more likely to accumulate if you’re in a flood-prone area, so you should wash your boat more often in these conditions. Make sure all of the soap is rinsed off when you’re done so it doesn’t damage your boat’s finish. Regularly check the interior and exterior of the boat for all mildew, algae, and other dangers. If you find something, clean it or get rid of it immediately.
Check For Damage
You should check all fittings, rope seals, and hardware for any signs of water damage on a regular basis. If you see anything that appears to be broken, have a professional look at it before using it. Regularly inspect the exterior of the boat for signs of wear. If you find places on the boat where the paint is chipped or faded, it needs to be sealed before the metals and plastics start to corrode. Check the condition of all safety equipment such as life jackets, anchors, ropes, and so on.
Wax Your Boat
Waxing your boat regularly will keep it looking sharp. Wax acts as a shield against the elements and prevents the outdoors from getting inside. Make sure to wax the deck, the rails, the mast, the sails, and the hardware. If you live in a coastal area, you should wax your boat at least once a year. If you’re in a more temperate climate, once every two years should be enough.
Store Your Boat Safely
Boat storage should be dry, protected from sunlight, and above all else, protected from rains and high winds. You want to keep your boat from absorbing moisture and getting mildewy over time. Boat lifts South Florida made with nonporous materials, such as stainless steel, are ideal.
Boat maintenance may seem like an involved process, but it pays off once you’re out on the water. You may find that the tasks aren’t so difficult once you know what you’re doing. If you take good care of your boat, it will take care of you.
