Washing your boat frequently is one of the most basic and important parts of boat maintenance. Regular cleaning not only makes for a nice clean and tidy boat, it also helps to reduce the wear and tear associated with environmental aging.
When painting and touching up your boat, make sure that you use an antifouling marine paint, as this will assist in protecting your boat from the harsh elements. Routine waxing is also strongly recommended. When purchasing boat products, such as marine paint, and wax, check to see that they are environmentally safe. Some of the cheaper products aren’t and are damaging to the environment.
Proper mooring is important, if you want to avoid scratches and dents on your boat. Ensure that lines are coiled tidily and that they are secured in place.
You will need to make sure that your boat is regularly inspected.
Keep an eye out for fraying ropes, loose fittings, and pay special attention to areas that have either recently been repaired or that are showing earl signs of wear. Damage spotted early on can normally be fixed relatively inexpensively.
Irrespective of whether you have an inboard motor or an outboard motor, you will need to flush out and inspect every aspect of your engine, after every trip. This includes checking tanks for rust, oil levels, and the condition of your fuel line. Another important thing to check is the engine cooling system.
A boat cover will also help to keep your boat in tiptop condition. They not only keep out the rain, but also keep out other irritants such as bird poop. In addition, they prevent sun damage that can cause wear to hoses and fade your interior.
Other key components to check are bilge pumps, electric components and navigation systems.