To Wax or Not to Wax?
You should never wax the bottom of a boat. Waxing the bottom increases surface tension and drag, slowing the boat down. Instead, rinse the hull with diluted cleaner once or twice a year to keep it clean. Avoid waxing the transom edges and the deck as this can reduce performance. When waxing a boat, start at the bow and work back. Choose a durable, easy to apply boat wax. Carnauba wax protects against water damage but doesn’t remove debris. Cleaner wax gently scrubs away stains and dirt. Polishing wax, like carnauba, doesn’t contain grit. To restore faded gelcoat, use a gelcoat restorer to give long-lasting color and shine.
Wax protects against corrosion, chemical breakdown from salt, as well as against barnacles and other organic buildups that can cling to the hull below the surface of the water. However, most experts will recommend that most boats should be waxed every three or four months.
The hull is the most important part of a boat to wax, except for the inside of the gunwales, where cleats, stanchions, and other metal fittings that constantly rub against them while in use.
Cleaning and Polishing
To keep your boat looking its best, you should wash the bottom of your boat about once a month or as soon as you notice stains, algae, or dirt on the hull. Once the bottom of the boat is wet, begin to apply a hull cleaner. Be sure to wear gloves, and focus on problem areas first. You can use brushes, sponges, or rags to work in the hull cleaner. Then, let it sit for at least two minutes.
For cleaning, you need to ensure that your boat’s surface is free from any grease, mold, and stains. Once it is clean enough, polish the surface in order to remove discoloration and other imperfections. Finally, when you have polished it, protect the clear surface by applying wax.
Bottom Paint and Corrosion Protection
Several benefits come with painting the bottom of your aluminum boat:
- Corrosion Protection: Protecting the hull from corrosive elements and reducing the risk of pitting in saltwater environments.
- Prevention of Marine Growth: Keeping the boat’s performance at its peak by preventing buildup like barnacles and algae.
- Improved Performance: Reducing friction between the boat and water for better fuel efficiency.
In general, you should apply boat bottom paint once a year. Some bottom paints can last for two years. If your boat is kept in the water or you use it regularly, have it checked annually to determine if it requires a new bottom paint coating.
Painting your boat will protect it from excessive wear and damage, prolong its life, and make it look new for years to come. There are also benefits to not painting the bottom of your aluminum boat.