Here we go again and this time the weather is no help. Although the rain has kept away it has been very very cold up on the East coast. However it has to be done.
Make sure she gets a pressure wash when she comes out
The bottom was given a pressure wash when she came out of the water so most of the algae and weed is gone, but there are still some stubborn bits that need some gentle care to remove. Be sure to hose off the hull as you work to avoid breathing in harmful materials. Areas where the gel coat has been damaged must be repaired.
Make sure you clean up all the moving parts
Barnacles are going to be found in awkward places. We always clean the prop as well. This year a local fisherman applauded our work saying 'most people don't bother to do that, it makes a difference.'
Replacing anodes
Although ours could probably last for another season we are changing it anyway. Much cheaper than a destroyed prop shaft.
There will probably be heavier stains on the waterline
Many boat cleaners contain chlorine, ammonia, or phosphates harmful to marine life. Use non-toxic alternatives whenever possible. This stage has to be a very carefully prepared. We experiment with natural cleaners each year by testing on a small section first, whichever one you use don't rush the work.
Non Toxic cleaners
| Toxic Cleansers | Alternatives |
| Fiberglass | Baking soda and salt |
| Aluminum | 1 Tbsp of cream of tartar in a half litre of hot water| Brass | Worcestershire sauce, vinegar and salt solution | | Chrome | Vinegar and salt solution | | Copper | Lemon juice and salt solution | | Decks | 1 part vinegar to 8 parts water | | Hair | Baby shampoo (phosphate-free and Ph balanced) | | Hands | Baby oil or margarine | | Clear Plastic | 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water | | Mildew | Vinegar and salt solution | | Shower | Wet the area, apply baking soda, and wipe | | Toilet | Baking soda | | Windows | 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water | | Wood | Polish with olive oil | | Chrome/metal | Polish with baby oil | | Bleaching | Hydrogen peroxide | | Scouring | Baking soda | |
The topsides need the same careful treatment
Black streaks are often a problem to remove. Find a method that suits your boat and that will also get rid of diesel smoke marks on the transom. If you are lucky black streaks on the side of your boat will start to dissolve before your eyes and require very little scrubbing.
A job well done
It may take time but the rewards are great, and you can go home with a warm glow of self satisfaction.
But please don't pollute the boatyard
- Take re-usable containers ready for the work.
- Take all your rubbish back home.
- Buy products without plastic or excessive packaging.
- Encourage marinas, yacht clubs, and boatyards to provide rubbish and recycling receptacles.
