How to Keep Your Boat Shipshape

Everything will come apart one day or another; it's just a matter of time. The same goes for boats too especially since it is an item that is brought out in occasional harsh conditions. "Shipshape" is the term commonly used to refer to boats that are in good working condition. Here are some points how you can minimise damage as well as perform simple ones to keep your boats shipshape.

Hull damage
Hull Damage often results from an incident of sudden groundings, a collision with other objects or when a wooden hull rots. Any of these happenings will result in water flooding the boat or cracks that will develop not a hull failure after some time. Whenever a collision has occurred, the hull and joints should be checked for cracks. Also check if there is any delamination of the fibreglass. Freshwater is bad for the hull as wooden ones rot faster when it comes in contact with fresh water or rain. Thus, after sailing out in fresh water lakes or rivers, check if there isn't any accumulation of fresh water anywhere in the hull.

Rig Damage
There are certain repairs that you can do on your own. These include repairs to the running rigging, halvards, traveller and boom vang. The parts can be ordered from a ship's chandlery, online or from the manufacturer. However, it will be advisable to leave repairs of the standing rigging to the experts. Repairs to damaged daggerboards and centreboards take some skills, so you could once again refer these to the professionals if you aren't sure if you could handle them.

Sail Damage
Repairing sails isn't that easy; you might need to speak to a professional sail repairer to get this done. However, if there are simple small tears or punctures, you could do it yourself by pasting a self-adhesive patch over the puncture or tear. If the damage is on the luff or foot, the repairs are more difficult and it is best to leave them in the hands of a sail repair shop.

Trailer Repair
A trailer will last for some time if it is well-maintained. Always check wheel bearings and lights regularly. The light might just need a bulb replaced if it isn't working properly, or a wire may have just come loose. Also don't forget to inflate the tyres to the correct and recommended pressure and check the tyres for cracks at the sides and if the treads are still good.

With frequent checks, care and maintenance, repairs will be very minimal and would not even be very costly.