How to Care for the Paint on Your Boat

Protect your boat's paint job by cleaning it before long-term storage.

Painting a fiberglass, wood or aluminum vessel will protect your boat from damage and rot. Over time and exposure to the wind and water, paint will begin to chip and rub away, causing damage to the hull. Proper care of a boat's paint job will keep the boat looking good and it can improve performance.

Things You'll Need

• Varnish
• Tarp or canvas covering
• Soft-bristled brush
• All-purpose boat shampoo
• Wax
• Acetone to clean grease
• Masking tape
• Marine primer
• Marine sealer
• Teak cleaner and oil (optional)
• Gloves
• Eye protection.

Instructions

1. Prepare your boat for painting. Before you begin painting, your vessel must be clean and free of mold, mildew, scum and rust stains. Use acetone on a rag to clean small greasy spots or stained areas a bit at a time. Use an all-purpose boat wash and soft brush to clean. Wear gloves and eye protection. Allow your hull to dry for several hours before applying marine primer. Mask metal areas, decals, glass, your trailer and motor to protect from paint. Remove hardware if needed.

2. Paint your boat with a light-colored marine paint. A lighter paint will reflect the sun's ray instead of absorbing them, which will help your paint job resist fading. It is likely you'll need two coats or more. Be sure each coat is dry before adding another layer. Whether you use a brush or paint sprayer, work small areas at a time.

3. Maintain the varnish on the boat. The varnish provides a protective covering over the paint. Check the varnish every six months to one year and recover any bare spots. If your boat has teak, use gloves when you apply teak cleaner, teak oil and teak sealer. Allow your boat to dry in the shade. Do not use your boat for several days to a week -- follow directions of the marine paint manufacturer that you select.

4. Cover and store your boat when not in use. Drape the boat with a plastic tarp or canvas cover to protect the paint job from sun, wind, rain and bird feces -- all of which will degrade the paint job. When the boat is not in use, keep it in a covered storage area, such as a garage.

5. Wash the painted surface of the boat. Use a soft-bristled brush and an all-purpose boat soap to remove any dirt, salt and droppings that will eventually eat away at your boat's paint job.

6. Cover the boat with a coating of fresh coat of wax once a year. The wax will provide a protecting coating to the paint that will help resist any chips or fading.

References

• Yacht Survey: Tips for Painting Fiberglass Boats; David Pascoe
• DIY-Wood-Boat: Wooden Boat Care