Removing White Spots From Your Aluminum Boat

White spots on an aluminum boat are a common problem, and they can be a headache to deal with, especially if you're planning a fishing trip. These spots are typically caused by oxidation, which occurs when the aluminum metal reacts with oxygen in the air or water, resulting in the formation of aluminum oxide. While aluminum doesn't rust, it does corrode and can be affected by electrolysis, which can be caused by both saltwater and freshwater. To remove these white spots, you can use a variety of methods, including specialized aluminum boat cleaner waxes, scrubbing with wool, or applying strong acids like vinegar. Preventative measures, such as waxing your boat once or twice a year, can also help protect against oxidation and corrosion.

Use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water

To remove white spots from your aluminum boat, you can use a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water. This method works because vinegar is acidic, and aluminum has a reactive base. When the two interact, the metal will act aggressively towards the acid to neutralize it.

Step 1: Clean the Aluminum with Soapy Water

First, clean any dirt, grime, or water spots on the boat with a mild soap solution mixed with water. This will remove the bulk of the dirt.

Step 2: Mix Equal Parts Vinegar and Water

In a small bucket, mix equal parts vinegar and warm, distilled water. Do not use water from a lake, sea, or saltwater, as this will worsen the problem.

Step 3: Spray the Vinegar Solution

Pour the vinegar-water mixture into a spray bottle and spray it onto the dirty or water-marked areas of your aluminum boat. Let it sit for about a minute to allow the vinegar to soak in and attach to the dirt.

Step 4: Wipe the Surface Clean

Use a clean, wet, non-abrasive towel, cloth, or rag to rub the aluminum area until it is clean. Use upward and downward strokes, and then circular motions to remove any remaining streaks.

Finally, remember to wipe off the vinegar solution cleanly. This will ensure that you do not lose small amounts of aluminum that has reacted with the cleaning solution to neutralize the pH acidity.

While this method is simple and cost-effective, it may not remove all marks and stains. For more stubborn water stains and dirt, you may need to use a specialist product or aluminum cleaner.

Apply specialist products like Boat Bling Hot Sauce

Boat Bling Hot Sauce is a specialist product that can be used to remove white spots from an aluminium boat. It is a hard water spot remover that can be used on a variety of surfaces, including aluminium. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply Boat Bling Hot Sauce to remove white spots from an aluminium boat:

Step 1: Prepare the Boat Surface

Before applying Boat Bling Hot Sauce, ensure that the boat surface is clean and free of any dirt, grime, or water spots. You can use a mild soap solution to clean the aluminium surface and remove any loose dirt or water marks. It is important to note that the boat should be washed and cleaned after each use to prevent water spots and corrosion.

Step 2: Gather the Necessary Materials

To apply Boat Bling Hot Sauce, you will need the following materials:

• Boat Bling Hot Sauce: This is the main product you will be using to remove the white spots. It is available in a 32 fl oz or 128 fl oz bottle. You can purchase it online or from specialist retailers.
• Microfiber Towels: You will need two or more clean microfiber towels to apply and wipe off the product.
• Spray Bottle (optional): If you prefer, you can pour the Boat Bling Hot Sauce into a spray bottle for easier application.

Step 3: Apply Boat Bling Hot Sauce

Start by spraying or applying Boat Bling Hot Sauce onto the aluminium surface of your boat. Begin at the rear of the boat, focusing on areas with heavy spots and buildup. Spray or apply the product in 2-3 foot sections, ensuring even coverage.

Step 4: Wipe and Buff the Surface

Using a clean microfiber towel, wipe and buff the Boat Bling Hot Sauce across the surface. Work in the same direction as the aluminium grain, if possible. You may need to use some elbow grease for heavily spotted areas. Continue working in sections until you've covered the entire boat.

Step 5: Repeat as Necessary

For heavily spotted areas, you may need to repeat the application process a few times. Allow the product to sit for a few minutes before wiping it off. You can also use a buffing pad or polisher for more stubborn spots.

Step 6: Maintain and Protect

To maintain the results and protect your aluminium boat, follow up with Boat Bling Quickie Sauce every three months. This will help to maintain the shine and protect against future water spots and corrosion. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keeping your aluminium boat in good condition.

Attach zinc anodes to your boat

White spots on an aluminium boat are a result of corrosion, specifically oxidation. To prevent this, you can attach zinc anodes to your boat.

Zinc anodes, also known as sacrificial anodes, are a crucial component in boat maintenance. They are called sacrificial anodes because they are made of a metal that corrodes more easily than the metal components of your boat, such as the shaft, propeller, and rudders. The anode corrodes instead of your boat, sacrificing itself to protect your boat from corrosion.

Sacrificial anodes are most commonly made from zinc, as it is the best metal for protecting boats in seawater. However, if your boat is in freshwater, it is recommended to use magnesium anodes instead, as they provide superior protection against corrosion in this environment.

• Clean metal-to-metal contact is necessary for the zinc anode to be effective. You can achieve this by mounting the zinc directly to the metal surface you want to protect or by connecting the two with a wire.
• Ensure that the surface of the metal you are attaching the zinc anode to is clean and bare to assure good electrical contact.
• Do not paint or coat the zinc anode in any way, as this will render it useless.
• The lifespan of a zinc anode can vary depending on several factors, including water conditions, frequency of boat use, and the location of the anode on the boat. Typically, they last around six months to a year.
• Regularly monitor your zinc anodes and replace them when they have depleted by about 50%.
• Use high-quality anodes that meet MIL-SPEC standards, such as the MIL-A-18001 Zinc alloy used by the US Military.
• Be careful not to use too much zinc, as this can lead to a build-up of crust and foul the anode, causing it to stop working.

By following these instructions and regularly maintaining your zinc anodes, you can effectively protect your aluminium boat from corrosion and keep it in good condition.

Use aluminium cleaner waxes and applicators

Aluminium boat cleaner waxes and applicators are the best method for removing oxidation from a boat. This method helps remove oxidation, as well as other contaminants such as oxides and acid deposits left behind by saltwater. They also protect the aluminium surface against future damage caused by UV rays or water runoff.

Before you begin, ensure you have the right equipment. You will need acid-resistant gloves, eye protection goggles, an aluminium cleaner scrubber pad, aluminium polish, and several pieces of clean polishing cloths. You will also need a hose with fresh water to rinse off the chemicals.

Now, let's get into the steps:

Step 1: Using Aluminium Cleaner

Spray the aluminium cleaner generously, starting from the bottom and gradually moving upwards. This will help avoid drip marks. Maintain even strokes, moving the spray in the same direction to keep the surface smooth. The cleaner will react with the metal oxide and create foam. Once you notice the formation of foam, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 2: Scrubbing

Use a medium-sized scrub pad to ensure that every section is rubbed properly. Spread the cleaners uniformly over the surface while scrubbing, maintaining steady pressure. Move your hands in a circular motion to help the cleaner spread evenly without leaving any places untouched.

Step 3: Rinsing and Polishing

Rinse the surface thoroughly with fresh water to ensure that no cleaning chemical is left behind. Repeatedly rinse until all the chemicals are removed. To restore the luster, polish the aluminium to a mirror finish using a clean cloth. The polish will neutralise any remaining acids or chemicals and will also put a protective coating on the surface. Rub the polish in a circular motion, aiming for uniform coverage. The cloth will become discoloured as the oxides and patches are removed. Once the polish is dried, rub the surface with a clean, soft cloth. The chalky oxidised surface may require repeated polishes.

Wash your boat after every trip

Washing your boat after every trip is essential to prevent the buildup of oxidation, which can lead to those unsightly white spots. While it may seem tedious, a thorough wash will save you time and effort in the long run, as it will reduce the need for more intensive cleaning and polishing.

The first step is to rinse the boat with clean water to remove any dirt, grime, or salt deposits. If you have access to a power washer or a pressure washer, this can be a quick and efficient way to give your boat a good rinse. However, if you don't have access to these tools, a simple hose can also do the trick. Just make sure to pay extra attention to areas that are more prone to dirt and debris buildup, such as the hull, running boards, and boat carpet.

Once you've given the boat a good rinse, it's time to break out the cleaning solutions. For aluminium boats, it's important to use the right products to avoid damage and further corrosion. A mild soap solution or a specialised aluminium cleaner can be used to scrub away any remaining dirt, salt deposits, or bird droppings. You can use a scrubbing pad or a stiff brush to work the solution into the metal and remove any stubborn debris.

After scrubbing, give the boat another thorough rinse to remove any remaining soap or cleaning solution. Then, dry the boat using towels or a leaf blower on low power to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial, as allowing the boat to air dry can lead to the formation of water spots and further oxidation.

If you're unable to dry the boat immediately, try to park it in a shaded area, as direct sunlight can cause the metal to heat up and become uncomfortable to work with. It's also best to avoid washing your boat on particularly sunny days to prevent the metal from heating up too much.

Finally, to protect your boat from future corrosion and fading, consider waxing the aluminium surfaces. Choose a wax specifically formulated for aluminium and apply it with a terry-cloth rag or an orbital polisher. Let the wax sit for about 30 minutes before buffing off any excess with a clean towel. Waxing will create a protective barrier against saltwater corrosion and UV damage, keeping your boat looking shiny and new.

Frequently asked questions