Discover why boat waxing is important.
Owning your boat and cleaning it periodically is an uphill task. Do you know that boat waxing is an important part of boat detailing? Boats are mostly made of fiberglass and for that reason a thin layer forms on the surface of boat over time due to oxidation. Besides, UV rays from the sun also have an effect on the glossy surface of the boat making it dull and color faded. Your boat thus loses original luster and shine.
Waxing hinders the process of oxidation and tries to maintain original finish and gloss of the surface. Are you aware that the waxing of your boat also increases fuel efficiency? A slick hull glides through the surface of water with minimal resistance and that saves you some fuel while your boat cruises through deep waters.
Waxing material is as important as waxing techniques. Whatever brand of wax you choose, just ensure that the product contains a top-grade carnauba or Brazil wax. Carnauba wax is made from a plant called carnauba palm that grows in Brazil. It comes in the form of yellow flakes and is refined and bleached before it is packed. A high melting point of carnauba wax at 180 degree F is another plus point that makes it the best choice for boat waxing. Besides, being a natural product, carnauba wax is eco-friendly and helps preserve the environment.
Before waxing you need to spray vinegar solution that removes hard water spotting. Sides and bottom of the boat picks up mineral spotting and lime deposits after it remains in water for long. Vinegar acts effectively on these marks and remove them without much effort. Once the boat is dried completely, it is ready for waxing.
Wax comes in several grades and an appropriate grade can be chosen based on oxidation effects on the boat. If you wish to perform the waxing manually then use a sponge or soft cloth to apply the wax. For quicker results, you can use electric buffer. Make sure to go over the instructions manual to find the pressure limitation of the buffing operation to safeguard the boat’s gel coat. It is important that wax is completely rubbed in a circulatory motion and no part remains cloudy. Remember that the buffer keeps moving all around to ensure no parts pick up heat to harm the gel coat finish. Never turn the buffer on edge as the process may cut into the gel coat. Also, don’t forget to apply metal polish on stainless steel or metallic parts.
If you don’t want to do the waxing job yourself once a year, you can leave it in professional hands. Boat waxing should become a part of your annual maintenance schedule. However, waxing is advisable every six months to keep your boat safe from the harmful effects of UV rays and salty sea water.