Top Things to know in Boat Maintenance

It is a desire of most people to have their own boat, but only a few are aware that from the moment they buy it that they have to see to its maintenance. A boat owner should be aware of proper maintenance tips in order to keep it in good working order and looking attractive. Proper boat maintenance will result in giving your boat a long life and preventing unnecessary repairs.

One of the easiest things you can do on your own is to wash the vessel after every trip with soap and water. There are many parts of the boat including the wood, fabric, metal areas, glass surfaces and plastic elements which need cleaning. Consider using high quality, safe products when washing the boat.

Purple Marine offers a range of cleaning equipment which is ideal for this purpose. Items range from rubber buckets to cleaning brushes, bailers, scrubbing brushes, cleaning pads, wash mitts and special cloth which eliminate any dirt or dust particles. Do not use any bleaching agents since it can damage the boat’s surface. It is important to dry every nook and corner to avoid any mineral deposits which may lead to corrosion. Make sure to frequently check up the fuel tank, fuel line and all the claps for signs of rust or corrosion.
It is advisable that you use environmentally friendly waxes, bilge cleaners and other high quality liquid rubbing compounds. Along with washing, one should do the waxing with heavy duty waxes and polish. Waxing the boat often will keep its surface safe and away from UV damage. For the ultimate in luxurious, deep gloss finish, one can go for Purple Marine’s Luxury Carnauba Polish which is one of the world’s heaviest waxes. Afterwards you may consider buying a cover for the boat which will protect it from sun, rain or other harmful weather conditions.
The engine is another major component that should be maintained well. Replace spark plugs, change oil filters and grease the engine after every 75 hours of use. Oil should also be clean and kept up to the correct level. At the same time do a routine check up on the engine’s cooling system to avoid any malfunctioning. This is a good practice that will ensure the safety of all passengers on board and will keep the boat in good working order.

Maintaining a boat is not that easy. There are so many things to check and attend to. This can be easily done by following the checklist of a professional; or get in touch with the UK’s leading chandlery experts Purple Marine who are specialists in boat maintenance and suppliers for all marine equipment. One can rely on them for high quality GRP boat repairs to any minor or major damage and your boat is assured of being attended to by their skilled boat inspectors who will give the best service for your money.

Jeff Coulson wrote the article on Boat Maintenance . More important facts on maintaining boats are found here.