Are you protecting your boat from sun damage? UV rays can diminish the quality of your water vessel—use our tips to ensure it remains in pristine condition.
Sunshine can feel nice when you’re boating, but it can also be very damaging. Not only can UV rays burn your skin, but they also dull the gel coat on your marine vessel, ruin vinyl seating, wear down internal components, and crack your boat’s exterior. Protecting your boat from sun damage is essential if you want to maintain the quality of this investment, so consider using the advice in this article.
Use Boat Wax!
Your boat most likely receives UV rays constantly, especially in the Caribbean. Waxing is one preventative measure to keep your boat’s finish pristine and protected from sun damage. It’s important to use marine or boat wax, and not any other kind, to ensure it prevents sun damage to your boat. Reapply wax annually or as often as you see fit.
Use a Boat Cover
When you leave your marine vessel in a body of water but you’re not using it for that day or week, consider covering it with a boat cover. These covers come in various sizes and materials, so you can find one that will protect your boat from sun damage. Keep the cover on between boat rides and remove it whenever you plan on boating—you can always store the cover in a compartment on the vessel for safekeeping when you’re not using it.
Consider Shrink Wrap for Long Term
Whether it’s hurricane season or you need to store your boat for a few months, consider a long-term solution like shrink wrap. Covering your boat in this material is affordable, and you can even purchase a recyclable version. When you remove the shrink wrap from your boat, you can help the environment by recycling it! Ensure you choose a wrap with UV inhibitors to protect your boat from sun damage in storage.
Use a Bimini Top To Protect Seats
The seats are vulnerable components on your boat. If you do not cover them, they may spend a lot of time in the sun. Of course, it’s easier to protect the seats when your boat is stationary because you can use the covers, but you might wonder what to do when boating. Installing a Bimini top to your boat can cover the seats with shade and minimize UV damage as you enjoy your day on the water.
Marine vessels are investments you should protect. If you allow the sun to damage your boat over time, you will spend a lot of money repairing or recoating the exterior. Use the methods and advice we covered above to protect your boat from dangerous UV rays so that you can enjoy your boating days.