Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Boat’s Gelcoat

At MPT Autobody, we are passionate about restoring and repairing boats. Whether your boat has been in an accident or is simply showing its age, our artists and technicians are equipped to make your boat shine once again. Many of our customers ask for tips on keeping their boat shining like new. The key to a shiny, beautiful boat is to restore and maintain the gelcoat.

Cleaning Fiberglass

Regular cleaning is crucial to taking care of your boat’s fiberglass and maintaining its shine. Generally, washing your boat with warm water, detergent, and a soft sponge should do the trick. If mold is present, add some bleach to your cleaning solution. And for really tough stains, you may need to purchase a concentrated fiberglass cleaner.

Degrease and Wax

After the boat is washed, we recommend degreasing and waxing the surface with your product of choice. Wax will not properly adhere to the surface until all oil and grease is removed. Therefore, we recommend wiping the boat with MEK solvent prior to applying wax. A proper wax job can go a long way in maintaining and repairing your boat’s gelcoat. In fact, a boat that has been regularly waxed can retain its gloss for up to 15 years!

Buff and Polish

Between waxings, if you notice that your boat has lost some of its luster, polishing the surface may do the trick. Polish essentially acts as an abrasive that removes and smooths surface damage. Polish the boat’s exterior in a circular motion until it becomes glassy, and immediately apply a coat of wax.

Call in the Experts

At MPT Autobody, we specialize in boat collision repairs and custom paint. If your boat’s fiberglass is damaged, peeling, cracked, or faded, don’t despair! From large boats to jet skis, our artists take marine paint to a whole new level of attractiveness. To receive a free estimate on marine graphics or other boat projects in the Murrells Inlet, SC area, contact us at (843) 353-2659.

 

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