A number of things need to be considered when starting a boat maintenance and repair project. Taking care of the vessel regardless of the material used to manufacture it is important in maintaining its value and keeping it safe. Servicing of the vessel can be spread into three main categories as follows.
Daily servicing: If you do not use protective paint on your vessel, make sure that you get it out of the water every few days to prevent the buildup of algae and barnacles. It is also essential that you scrub and wash the yacht while it is wet prior to putting it back in the water. However, if you use the yacht in salt water consider using plenty of soap and freshwater rinse after every day use.
If it is a motor boat, make sure the batteries are charged immediately after returning from your sporting or fishing trip. Perform regular checks on the battery and charge it as required. This will go a long way in keeping the battery in a good working condition.
Weekly or monthly servicing: At this point the servicing is more intense than daily whereby during cleaning the vessel is checked for any loose rivets, fittings, cracks, or other sections that need care, attention or replacement. If you are acquainted with fix, do it or get a qualified personnel for a detailed check up. In case you do not want to spend time washing your yacht, removing all tackles, seat cushions, electronics and other accessories, you can run the vessel through a high-pressure car wash or any other manual car wash bays.
While washing, however, it is highly recommended that you use right metal cleaners that will not facilitate the corrosion of aluminum or stainless steel fittings. This is vital especially where there is salt water. Further, consider using detergents that are less harmful to the environment and water.
Annual servicing: This is a general maintenance routine for the entire vessel especially if it is made of wood. The care taken prevents the vessel to from the fall of a possible damage or rot. Therefore, make sure you check corners, under decks, waterline as well as the back of the transom.
Apart from these three periodic servicing activities, storing your yacht appropriately is equally indispensable. Often most people store their vessels in garages, carports, or cover them with breathable tarp, but do not store it under a tree. Store your vessel while all hatches are wide open to ensure ventilation within the equipment and prevent moisture, which can cause rot, corrosion or rust.
Essentially, your boat maintenance will always fall under this three maintenance schemes. If you have any questions, you can check with your boat engine or manufacturer for specific help on how best to clean the equipment. You can as well visit the website of the manufacturing company for instructions and directions on how you can extend the lifespan of your vessel as well as make it safe.
You can find a great selection of marine wax for restoring your boat, available from www.nanotechsst.co.uk