Hull maintenance

[Michiel]

Hello all,

I am ashamed to admit that I am only now starting to get "Nemo" ready for the approaching season. Pretty sure that by now everyone else has got their boats all gleaming, freshly varnished and eager to launch.

For me, 'getting ready' usually means sanding and varnishing the woodwork, cleaning and polishing the interior, an engine service and a check of electrical system.
After 2 seasons the hull is looking a little tired now.
"Nemo" lies for 3 months on a floating mooring in the Med., and there are a lot of rubbing marks of the mooring buoy on the hull. Also general markings from general usage. The hull is blue.

How do I restore the hull?
Last year I got a wax from Halfords, but this did very little good.

Michiel

[x-man12345]

I got some advice from Nanotech Marine (NanotechSST).
They recommended their 2 in 1 cut and polish, then protecting with Permanon Supershine.
So that's what we did. Used an oscillating sander with a 3M pad.
The Supershine is very easy to apply and a little goes a long way.
The results are great. The marina owner even asked us what we used, he is now sending guys down to check out the hull finish.
They also sell a Teak protector which we will be ordering soon.
Very happy.

[erbster]

X-man- how bad were the scratches when you used the cut and polish? I have white showing through on some fender scuffs.

[x-man12345]

Hello Charles,
The hull had some areas of hazing caused by oxidation of the gelcoat. The sun loves dark colours.
It works by gently removing the oxidation leaving behind a shiny layer. Once you have the good base then it's important to protect the gelcoat from UV rays. Thats where the Permanon comes in. I am quoting advice I was given, I am no expect on the subject. It won't replace gelcoat but it will make the scratches look smaller.
It's worth giving Nanotech Marine a call and get some expert advice.
I hope this helps
Ian

[x-man12345]

Permanon Hecta Organic stain remover. Mixed it about 5% and used a soft brush.
Used it this morning, (before the rain came), cockpit and decks. Very good results.
Ian

[erbster]

Thanks for that. I had already bought a farecla product, which has helped with much of the scuffing, but I still have some noticeable scratches. I am hoping that I can use some wax polish to minimise them. Perhaps I can find some coloured polish....