In port, a boat is attacked by atmospheric pollution but also by oils. Not all marine engines are well adjusted and some cold starts result in a cloud of smoke, which is then deposited onto other boat’s hulls. To clean greasy deposits, we must begin by washing with plenty of water to remove any non-encrusted particles. The second step is the removal of fats with a suitable degreaser. Those that we offer do not tarnish the paint, gelcoat or attack stainless steel or Plexiglas. The only precautions one must take are to follow use instructions, permit the product to act for the specified time and wash well with water.
Shampoos
To minimize the annual work, it is advisable to maintain the hull regularly. To do this one opts for gentle shampoos that may be diluted in water (fresh or salt.) There are also protective wax cleaners. They prevent dirt adhering too rapidly. Caution; for these steps we must avoid using silicon based products. The silicone prohibits any
A successful repair, hull polishing or painting is all down to the preparation. It is estimated that represents 75% of the working time. On the areas outside the water a lot depends on the material of the shell.
Mono or bi-component paint?
Mono composition paints are easy to use and their solvent evaporation drying leaves a residue far superior to conventional types. They posses a great flexibility are well suited to all bases and strongly recommended for wood. Dual component paints are highly resistant to abrasion, UV and chemical agents. They provide a long lasting finish. Their polymerisation drying leaves a harder residue than classic types.
Wood boats
The wood is prepared by sanding. Check that it is dry enough and that the paint is compatible. To paint a traditional wood boat, one must use, to avoid cracks, monocomponent paint. More flexible, it is suitable for most work on wood. It is always advisable to first apply the product for treating wood on a small section
On a boat that is a few years old, small blisters do not pose a danger. The blisters are, though synonymous with osmosis. One must intervene. The prevention products that are used for processing small pinheads, or even before they occur though, are often more dangerous than doing nothing. If one applies an impermeable product on a not perfectly dry boat, it can actually accelerate osmosis. On a boat with osmosis (large blisters,) action has to be taken. It is a major operation that requires peeling the gelcoat and controlled drying of the hull which can take months. When the hull is completely dry apply an epoxy resin based product.
Understanding osmosis
Osmosis is basically water penetrating the polyester. This water destroys the resin.The boat becomes soft and is likely to decompose. Osmosis is directly related to the components that go into the manufacture of a polyester hull: the acid and the alcohol. This mixture which is added to the fibreglass changes from
