Keel Guards: Best Protection For Your Boat's Hull

When it comes to protecting your boat from damage, keel guards are an essential investment. The keel is the centre line protruding from the bottom of your boat, and it often sustains damage from concrete, ramps, docks, and rocky shores. Keel guards are designed to prevent wear and tear to the keel, which can break down its protective gelcoat finish, allowing water to reach and destroy the fibreglass. There are several options available on the market, each promising to safeguard your vessel from costly repairs. One of the most popular options is the Megaware KeelGuard®, which is made from a blend of polymers and urethanes, creating optimal durability and pliability. The Megaware KeelGuard® also comes in a range of colours and sizes to match your boat. Another popular option is the Gator Guards KeelShield Keel Guard, which is made from pure Urethane Polymers and is 5 wide. It is easy to install and is compatible with both fibreglass and most aluminium boats. It also comes with a lifetime guarantee.

The best keel guard material

Urethane polymers are the material of choice for keel guards, providing a strong and durable barrier against damage from rocks, concrete, ramps, and docks. This material is designed to be rugged and is often paired with an exclusive 3M adhesive system, ensuring the keel guard stays in place.

The keel guard's width is typically 5 inches, with lengths varying from 4 to 12 feet, depending on the size of the boat. It is important to ensure that the keel guard is long enough to cover any area that will be grounded, with an extra buffer of one to two feet.

The installation process for keel guards is straightforward, requiring surface preparation, peeling, and sticking. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions carefully, especially when it comes to preparing the surface by sanding or etching to ensure proper adhesion.

Some keel guards, such as the Megaware KeelGuard, feature angled grooves that create hydrodynamic channels, resulting in a slicker surface that reduces drag and maintains the boat's speed.

When choosing a keel guard, it is essential to consider the compatibility with your boat's hull material. While keel guards are commonly compatible with fiberglass and most aluminium boats, they may not adhere well to certain types of plastics commonly used in kayaks and canoes. Additionally, the hull surface should be smooth and free of sharp angles or rivets for optimal adhesion.

Keel guard installation

This guide will take you through the process of installing a keel guard on your boat, a great way to protect your vessel from damage caused by concrete ramps, rocky shorelines, and sandy beaches. The installation is a relatively simple process but must be done with care to ensure a strong bond.

Tools and Materials

Before beginning, ensure you have the following tools and materials:

• Keel guard kit (including 3M adhesive)
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Paper towels
• Gloves
• Wax pen/pencil/crayon
• Painter's tape/masking tape
• Marine-grade sealant
• DA sander (optional)
• Scotch-Brite pad (3M)
• Clean rags

Step 1: Surface Preparation

Before applying the keel guard, the surface must be prepared for adhesion. This involves removing any fiberglass mold release agents and wax by etching or scuffing the keel. Use a Scotch-Brite pad or a DA sander to gently scuff the surface, removing the gloss in the area where the guard will be installed. Ensure not to use anything stronger than 180-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the keel's gel coat.

Step 2: Cleaning

After scuffing the surface, thoroughly clean the area with isopropyl alcohol, acetone, toluene, or zylene. Wipe the keel with clean rags or paper towels, and then re-wipe with another clean rag and one of the recommended cleaning agents. Do not use paint thinner or other petroleum-based cleaners as they may compromise the bond with the adhesive. Always wear gloves and follow the manufacturer's safety precautions when using these solvents.

Step 3: Priming

After cleaning, apply a thin coat of 3M #94 keel primer to the area where the keel guard will be installed, especially the edges. The primer interacts with the adhesive to create a stronger bond. Do not confuse the primer with a cleaning agent. Before installing the keel guard, unroll it and place it in the sun for approximately 10 minutes to make it softer and more pliable. Do not install in temperatures below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 4: Applying the Keel Guard

The keel guard has a protective red plastic liner that has been scored down the center. Carefully pull back the center liner 2-3 feet, exposing the adhesive tape. Start removing the sides of the protective liner, being careful not to touch the adhesive. Align the keel guard with the center of the keel and press it on by hand or with a burnishing tool. Do not touch the adhesive to the keel until you are satisfied that it is centered and aligned properly. Once the adhesive touches the primed surface, it becomes a permanent bond.

Pull back the protective strips one side at a time, working in 2-3 feet sections from the center out to ensure no air is trapped between the hull and the adhesive. Continue working towards the rear until completed. After installation, go over the keel guard again with the burnishing tool, applying strong force and pressure to ensure all edges are pressed down firmly.

Final Steps:

There is no downtime, and your boat can be used immediately after installation. However, if you choose to seal the edges with a marine-grade sealant, follow the instructions on the sealant for cure time before use.

Notes and Tips:

• Make sure your boat hull and keel guard are at a temperature of 70°F or warmer to avoid adhesion problems.
• Ensure the area where the keel guard will be installed is smooth and free of any gouges or scratches deeper than 1/4".
• If your boat has extensive damage or is leaking, make sure to repair it before installing the keel guard.
• Do not use Acetone, Lacquer Thinner, or any other cleaner/solvent that may leave a film and interfere with the adhesive.
• If your trailer is designed such that the entire weight of the boat rests on the rollers or a support beam along the keel, do not install a keel protector as it may compromise the adhesive bond.

Keel guard maintenance

To ensure your keel guard is kept in good condition, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, it is important to regularly clean and inspect your keel guard for any damage or wear and tear. Use a soft cloth and mild soap to clean the keel guard, and be sure to remove any dirt or debris. If you notice any damage, repair it as soon as possible.

If your keel guard is held in place with screws or bolts, be sure to keep an eye on these and make sure they are tight and not corroded. Applying a coat of wax or polish to the keel guard at least once a year can also help to protect it from the elements.

When cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as these can damage the plastic and shorten the lifespan of the keel guard. When not in use, store the keel guard in a dry place. Exposure to excessive heat or moisture can cause it to deteriorate over time.

Finally, always ensure that the keel guard is properly secured and installed before sailing.

Keel guards can last for three to five years if they are properly installed and maintained. It is important to keep the surface of the keel guard clean and free of debris to ensure its longevity. If a hole develops in the keel guard, it should be repaired immediately.

Keel guard for different boat types

The keel guard is a protective device for boats, designed to prevent damage to the keel from abrasion, scratches, and scars. It is a crucial investment to protect your boat from costly repairs and increase its value. The keel guard is installed on the centre line of the boat, which slices into the water and often bumps into concrete, ramps, docks, and rocky shores.

Compatibility with Different Boat Types

The compatibility of keel guards varies depending on the type of boat. Here are some common boat types and the suitability of keel guards for each:

• Fiberglass and Most Aluminum Boats: Keel guards are generally compatible with both fiberglass and most aluminium boats. For aluminium boats, it is important to ensure a smooth hull surface without sharp angles or rivets, and no protruding centre keel with reinforced welding.
• Kayaks and Canoes: Most kayaks and canoes are made of low surface energy plastics like polypropylene and polyethylene. The adhesive used in keel guards does not bond well with these materials, so keel guards are not recommended for these types of boats.
• Jet Skis and Personal Watercraft (PWC): Modern PWC hulls have complex designs with multiple contours, strakes, and chines, which pose challenges for keel guard installation. Keel guards require a smooth surface to adhere properly and create a watertight seal. Additionally, the installation height above the resting waterline can be problematic due to the presence of a rub rail on many PWCs.
• Catamarans: Catamaran hulls typically have a sharp keel and a steep 90-degree upturn at the bow, making keel guards incompatible with this design. However, custom lengths can be ordered to protect just the forward-most part of the bow.
• Pontoon Boats: While keel guards are not suitable for installation on the bottom of pontoon tubes due to the required installation height above the resting waterline, there are specific products called "Pontoon Guards" that protect the sides of the tubes when tying to docks or other boats.
• Rigid Inflatable Boats (RIB) and Rigid-Hull Inflatable Boats (RHIB): Keel guards can be installed on these boat types, and it is recommended to use a longer length for added hull protection.
• Boats Longer than 30 Feet: For larger boats, the weight can be excessive and may damage or tear the keel guard during beaching. It is recommended to consult with the manufacturer for specific guidance.

Installation and Maintenance

Keel guards are designed for do-it-yourself (DIY) installation, with a simple process of prepping, peeling, and sticking the guard to the keel. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and ensure proper surface preparation for successful adhesion.

To maintain the keel guard, it is recommended to wipe it down with a clean towel after each use and inspect it for any areas of concern.

Keel guard warranties

Most keel guard brands offer a lifetime product warranty, while some offer warranties on the adhesive used to attach the guard to the keel.

Megaware KeelGuard®

Megaware guarantees the KeelGuard against abrasive wear and adhesion failure during normal use of your boat, for as long as you own your boat. This warranty is only valid for the original purchaser.

KeelShield

KeelShield is guaranteed to last the service lifetime of your boat.

XINRINTONG Self-Adhesive DIY Keel Guard

It is unclear whether this product comes with a warranty, but it is returnable on Amazon.

Frequently asked questions