Published on: 01/08/2014 Updated on: 20/02/2025
Today on our blog we talk about boat maintenance, specifically fiberglass boat cleaning and polishing.
Fiberglass surfaces are very common on boats, whether they are small, medium or large. Due to its strength and ability to withstand weathering, this type of material, consisting of fiberglass-reinforced plastic, is widely used both forcovering the hull and various interior parts of the boat.
This does not detract from the fact that fiberglass can also yellow, wear out and deteriorate over time, thus needing treatment to maintain its vigor and shine. So how best to treat this surface and what products to use?
WHAT PRODUCTS TO USE TO CLEAN FIBERGLASS
Gelcoat, which forms the visible surface part of the artifacts, gives fiberglass particular resistance to chemicals in general, however, it is best to be sure not to ruin this protective layer. Normally, medium alkaline and water-based professional cleaners are used, trying to avoid excessively caustic products and strongly acidic products or products containing hydrofluoric acid, which could affect this layer. Care should also be taken if solvent-based products are to be used since fiberglass could be attacked by some of them, especially chlorinated ones.
WHAT TOOLS TO USE TO CLEAN FIBERGLASS
Washing Glove, Brush or Sponge. What is best to use?
Glove and brush normally provide better results than the sponge if the washing is done manually. In fact, the fibers of the glove and mop by their nature penetrate inside the pores of the fiberglass more deeply and incisively than the sponge, which acts at a more superficial level on the structure of the fiberglass surface, working as it is usually said "flat."
Using a washing glove, preferably a microfiber glove, will definitely allow for excellent results!
HOW TO CLEAN FIBERGLASS
Avoid annoying halos
It sometimes happens that after a good cleaning and polishing of fiberglass, halos remain that create an annoying dulling effect on the hull. In most cases this happens because the treated surface, under the sun's rays, has overheated and due to excessive heat that alters the results of the work. If we keep our boat outdoors and in the direct presence of the sun's rays, it is therefore advisable, for greater safety of use, to cool by wetting with cold water, even sea water,the surface to be cleaned before dispensing the product. This will prevent the formation of annoying and uncontrolled matting effects .
Avoiding drip spots
If we have to wash our hull and the external parts of the boat, it is useful to follow some useful tricks to avoid the classic dripping of the product, which dripping on the still dry part of the boat could remain visible. If the boat is washed ashore on the vessel, it is advisable that the dispensing of the product should be done starting from the bottom upwards, while for rinsing, proceed from the top downwards. If you start from the top, the product may drip and end up on the still dry part and the dripping at the end of the wash may be visible.
The rinsing phase
Rinsing is critical for a good end result. It must be abundant whether done with a water hose or pressure washer.
WHEN TO WASH FIBERGLASS
It is recommended to clean the boat at least once a month especially if it is left open subjected to the effects of weathering and not covered with tarps. It is always best to wash in the morning or evening when temperatures are lower because the sun may alter the result.
THE MA-FRA SOLUTION FOR FIBERGLASS
Our recommendation for fiberglass is DOLPHY.
DOLPHY is the professional fiberglass boat cleaning and polishing detergent concentrated with plant-derived surfactants added with polarlite (an active ingredient that polishes and protects against uva rays) designed specifically for both interior and exterior fiberglass parts. DOLPHY can also be used on wet surfaces and does not reduce its cleaning power.
See DOLPHY in action and purchase it at your convenience. Visit the following link
http://www.boatpassion.com/dolphy-pulire-sporco-vetroresina.html
Want to know a few more tips for caring for your boat? Find out how to waterproof your boat's fabrics and cushions. Read the article on IDROSTOP fabric waterproofing!
