Boat Maintenance

Different engine types may come with different recommended service intervals, but the general rule of thumb for a diesel inboard engine is that this should be serviced at least once per year.

Anti-fouling paint is a specialized category of coatings applied as the outer layer to the hull of a boat. The main purpose of antifouling paint is to slow the growth of and facilitate the detachment of subaquatic organisms that attach to the hull and can affect a vessel's performance and durability.

Like engine servicing, antifouling application is recommended as an annual occurrence. The ideal time of year to apply antifouling to your boats hull is in the spring, this way you can ensure your hull is as growth free as possible for the summer season.

GRP Boats, over time, are exposed to UV rays and marine waters which will eventually erode their relatively soft outer surface, which will dull it’s once shiny finish. Additionally, as the gel coat ages it loses oils which will cause the gel coat to dry out and become porous. Polishing replenishes these oils and enhances your boat's exterior gloss finish. Additionally, polishing will aid in removing small superficial scratches to your boat's gel coat finish.

Your boat should be professionally polished a minimum of once per year.

Sacrificial Anodes are essential to any boat as they help to protect underwater metals from galvanic corrosion. They are a piece of either zinc, magnesium or aluminium alloy that is mounted on, or connected to, the underwater metal parts of your boat which include stern drives, shafts, propellers, rudders, trim tabs and thrusters. Anodes come in varying shapes and shapes and sizes. These should be replaced when the anodes have corroded by 50%. Generally, most boat owners will replace these at the same time as the antifouling paint is applied annually s most anodes are designed to last for up to 12 months however regular checks are recommended as multiple factors including water flow rate, water salinity and temperature and stray electrical current can contribute to anodes depleting faster.

Cleaning your boat is an essential part of its maintenance and will help to keep your boat in the best condition possible.

How often your boat should be cleaned can depend on multiple factors such as how much the boat is used and where the boat is kept. Ideally, boats kept in the water should be cleaned externally every one-two weeks.

It is also important to note that boats should be cleaned or at least rinsed thoroughly after every outing.

Many owners choose a valeting service so they can be safe in the knowledge that their boat is being kept sparkling clean and ready to use at any time. Contact us if you would like more information on valeting services in your area.