Maintaining Your Boat
By Ray La Foy, Fri Dec 9th

The minute you buy your boat, you have to start thinking aboutyour boat maintenance and upkeep schedule. First, you need toeither personally inspect your boat or to hire a professionalboat inspector. If you choose to hire an inspector, take note ofhis recommendations in terms of things to watch out for and themaintenance weaknesses of your boat. Local boat traders may havetheir own inspector for you to hire. Keep in mind that afterchecking your boat, there are several things you need to do inorder for you to keep it in tip-top shape.

Boat washing and boat wax

It is recommended that you wash your boat once or twice a week.This is to ensure that your boat's finish lasts for a long time.A lot of damage can be done to your boat by animal droppings,acid rain, salt, and dirt. Your boat is made of different typesof material such as canvas, fiberglass, and metal. This meansthat cleaning your boat requires that you pay attention tocleaning these specific materials. Different cleaners andcleansers are available for all materials, and be sure to checkyour local discount marine supplies store.

As for the boat wax, it is important because it maintains thevalue and look of your boat for the long run. There aredifferent types of boat wax available, and most boat tradersrecommend a double layer application of paste wax. It is oftensuggested to get natural instead of chemical products, in orderto preserve the finish of your boat.

Interior

boat detailing

Interior boat detailing is a more extensive procedure thansimple boat washing. It involves polishing different materialson your boat such as wood or metal. Special care is given toyour windows and blinds as well. The interiors are evenvacuumed, and every nook and cranny is cleaned. When done byprofessionals, it can really improve the look of your boat. Itis important to have steam-cleaning procedures done on yourboat's carpet, canvas, and upholstery as well. This attention todetail can prevent termite and bacteria problems thatdeteriorate the quality, value, and performance of your boat.

Boat bottom cleaning

While most boat maintenance services focus on the visible partsof your boat, it is cleaning your boat bottom (the part that hascontact with the water) that is most important. The bottom ofyour boat should be routinely inspected and cleaned. The dangeris that barnacles and algae will attach themselves to your boatbottom, affecting your boat's speed and performance. The morefrequently you use your boat, the more it needs bottom cleaning.Most enthusiasts even say that routine bottom cleaningsaves them on fuel. Be sure to hire experts who provide serviceswith preventive growth treatments.

By making a habit of having your boat maintained, you areinsured of getting the best experience possible. Also,don't postpone repairs when they are urgently needed. Remember -dirty, unkempt boats are best left at the dock.

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