Waxing Your Aluminum Boat: Bottom Maintenance For Smooth Sailing

There is a lot of debate among boaters about whether to wax the bottom of an aluminum boat. Some people claim that waxing the bottom of a boat causes it to stick to the water more, resulting in reduced speed and efficiency. On the other hand, others argue that a waxed hull is better protected from stains and that the aesthetic improvement outweighs any minor speed loss.

Pros and cons of waxing the bottom of an aluminium boat

There are a variety of opinions on whether to wax the bottom of an aluminium boat. Here is a list of advantages and disadvantages to help you decide:

Pros

• Aesthetic Improvement and Protection: Waxing the bottom of your boat can improve its appearance and provide a protective barrier against stains from murky water and mud. This can be especially useful if you boat in waters with a lot of "crud" or scum that sticks to the hull.
• Ease of Cleaning: Waxing makes cleaning off water scum, crud, and other pollutants much easier. Some boat owners recommend using a cheap auto wax that doesn't require buffing, making the process quicker and less labour-intensive.
• Protection from Fading: Waxing can protect your boat's paint from UV rays and sun fading, helping to maintain its colour and shine.

Cons

• Speed or Efficiency Loss: Some boaters claim that waxing the bottom of the boat causes it to "stick" tighter to the water, resulting in a slight decrease in speed or efficiency. This is a concern particularly for those who participate in racing or other speed-related activities.
• Time and Effort: Waxing a boat can be time-consuming and labour-intensive, especially if done by hand. It requires thorough washing and drying before waxing, and the application process can be tedious.
• Cost: While there are inexpensive waxing options available, the cost of purchasing wax and related supplies can add up, especially if you plan to wax your boat regularly.

How to wax an aluminium boat

Aluminium boats are a popular choice due to their durability and ease of maintenance. Waxing your aluminium boat can further enhance its resilience, protecting it from water spots and other environmental factors, and keeping it looking its best for longer.

Choosing the Right Wax

The type of wax you choose will depend on the specific features of your boat. If your boat has bare, unfinished aluminium, you will need to treat it with corrosive acids or abrasive polishing to remove oxidation. For painted aluminium surfaces, you can opt for a liquid wax or spray wax designed for boats or cars. It is recommended to avoid waxes that are greasy, as these can attract dust and dirt. Instead, look for a product that provides a hard, anti-static, mirror finish, like Kwik Shine. If your boat has vinyl trim, be sure to choose a wax that is safe for this material, as some waxes can cause damage.

How to Apply Wax to an Aluminium Boat

Before waxing, ensure your boat is clean and dry. If using a liquid wax, apply a small amount to a soft cloth and work it into the surface of the boat in circular motions. Allow the wax to dry and then buff the surface with a clean, dry cloth to achieve a shine. If using a spray wax, simply spray a light mist over the desired area and then wipe down with a dry towel.

How Often to Wax

The frequency of waxing will depend on various factors, including the age of your boat, the environment it is used in, and how often you use it. As a general rule, waxing your aluminium boat once a year is a good starting point. However, if you notice water spots or a dull appearance, you may need to wax more frequently.

Additional Tips

• Always read the instructions on the wax product you choose and follow any specific application guidelines.
• If waxing a large area, work in small sections to ensure thorough coverage.
• Don't forget to wax the outboard engine and lower legs for added protection and shine.
• Consider using a spray detailer or sealant in between waxing to maintain the finish and make cleaning easier.

Waxing an aluminium boat: products to use

Waxing an aluminium boat is a great way to protect the paint and keep it looking new. There are a variety of products available for this purpose, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular options:

Car Wax

A good-quality car wax can be used on painted aluminium boats without any problems. It is a more affordable option, as boat-specific waxes tend to be priced higher. Car wax is effective in protecting the paint and making it easier to clean off any dirt or "crud" that accumulates. Turtle Wax, Meguiers, and Nu-Finish are some popular brands in this category.

Boat Wax

Boat waxes are formulated specifically for boats and can be used on painted aluminium surfaces. They offer excellent protection and help maintain the shine of your boat. Kwik Shine is a popular choice in this category, known for its ease of use and ability to protect against UV rays and sun fading. It is also effective in removing light oxidation and restoring faded paint. Additionally, Kwik Shine is not greasy, so it won't attract dust and dirt.

Spray Wax

Spray waxes, such as Turtle Wax spray, Adam's Spray Wax, and Bling Sauce's Quickie Sauce, are convenient options that make waxing your boat a quick and easy task. They are ideal for both painted and bare aluminium surfaces. Spray waxes provide a protective coat, make cleaning easier, and offer UV protection. They are perfect for a quick touch-up after a day out on the water.

Metal Polish

For bare aluminium boats, metal polishes like White Diamond Metal Polish or Mother's Aluminum Polish can be used to restore the shine. These products require some elbow grease or the use of a polisher, but they effectively remove oxidation and bring back the mirror finish.

Other Options

Other products mentioned by aluminium boat owners include Collinite Fleet Wax No.885, Sonax NTS7, and Bling Sauce's Hot Sauce, which is a spot remover and detailer designed for painted aluminium surfaces.

In summary, the type of wax or polish you choose depends on whether your aluminium boat has a painted or bare surface. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and take the necessary precautions when applying any of these products.

Waxing an aluminium boat: products to avoid

When waxing an aluminium boat, it is important to avoid certain products and cleaning agents to prevent damage to the boat's surfaces. Here are some guidelines and recommendations for products to avoid when waxing an aluminium boat:

• Avoid abrasive polishing or wax products on anodized aluminium surfaces: Anodized aluminium is often used for fittings and railings, and these surfaces should not be polished or waxed with abrasive products. Instead, use a mild abrasive polishing agent or a product specifically designed for anodized aluminium if needed.
• Do not use alcohol-based, solvent-based, or acid-containing cleaning agents: When cleaning an aluminium boat, avoid using cleaning agents that contain alcohol or solvents. Also, avoid acids such as oxalic acid or phosphoric acid. These can damage the aluminium surfaces and should be avoided.
• Avoid using solvent-based cleaning agents on consoles and plastic components: Solvent-based cleaners can damage plastic and console components, so it is best to avoid using them on these surfaces.
• Avoid waxes that cause blistering or other issues: Some waxes can cause blistering, fish eyes, or other problems on painted aluminium surfaces. Kwik Shine is a recommended product that does not cause these issues and is suitable for hard painted surfaces on boats.
• Avoid using a dry cloth or paper to wipe plexiglass windshields: When cleaning windshields made from plexiglass (acrylic or polycarbonate), do not use a dry cloth or paper. Instead, use a mild general-purpose cleaner, dishwashing liquid, or glass cleaner with a lint-free soft towel or sponge.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaning agents or equipment on plexiglass windshields: Abrasive cleaning agents and equipment can scratch and damage plexiglass windshields.

Additionally, while not a specific product to avoid, it is worth noting that some boat owners choose not to wax their aluminium boats, especially if they do not have an expensive paint job. Instead, they focus on keeping the boat clean by regularly rinsing and washing it with fresh water and a soft brush or sponge.

Waxing an aluminium boat: how often?

Waxing an aluminium boat is a great way to protect the paint and keep it looking new. The frequency of waxing will depend on several factors, including the type of wax used, the boat's usage, and the storage conditions. Here are some guidelines and recommendations to help you determine how often to wax your aluminium boat.

Type of Wax

The type of wax you choose can impact how often you need to reapply it. Some waxes are designed to provide long-lasting protection, while others may need more frequent applications. For example, spray-on waxes like Turtle Wax or Adam's Spray Wax are easy to apply and can be used as needed, making them ideal for quick touch-ups. On the other hand, a high-quality carnuba hand wax will require more effort to apply but can provide longer-lasting protection.

Boat Usage

The frequency of waxing will also depend on how often you use your boat and the conditions in which you operate it. If you use your boat regularly in saltwater or dirty water with a lot of "crud", you may need to wax more frequently. Waxing can help prevent the build-up of salt residue, scum, and grime, making it easier to clean your boat after each use. Consider waxing your boat at the start of the boating season and then reapplying as needed throughout the season.

Storage Conditions

The way you store your boat will also impact how often you need to wax it. If your boat is stored outdoors and exposed to the elements, the paint may fade or oxidise more quickly. In this case, you may need to wax more frequently to protect the paint and maintain its shine. On the other hand, if your boat is stored indoors or covered, the paint may retain its shine longer, and you may be able to wax less frequently.

Recommended Products and Techniques

When waxing your aluminium boat, it's important to use a product specifically designed for this purpose. Kwik Shine is a popular choice for painted aluminium boats as it provides a hard, anti-static, mirror finish that protects against UV fading. It is easy to use and can be sprayed on, making it ideal for regular maintenance. For bare aluminium, you can use a product like Aluminum Jelly or White Diamond metal polish to remove oxidation and restore shine.

In summary, the frequency of waxing your aluminium boat will depend on the type of wax used, how often you use your boat, and the storage conditions. By choosing the right products and techniques, you can protect your boat's paint, make cleaning easier, and maintain a shiny, like-new appearance.

Frequently asked questions