What You Should Know – Preventative Maintenance For Your Boat

Anodized Aluminum

The aluminum on your boat has been anodized. This creates a very hard protective seal on the surface of the aluminum to protect it as much as possible from pitting. When the anodized coating is broken and raw aluminum is exposed, corrosion will take place. Damage from chemicals, knives, gaffs, or other abrasive impacts can break the anodized coating. 

Avoidable Corrosives

• Strong acidic solutions found in cleaners, paint remover, degreasers, etc.
• Concentrated alkaline based solutions. Many concentrated soaps fall into this category
• Chlorine, sulfurs, solvents, and ammonia-based products

Unavoidable Corrosives

• Saltwater (comes with the territory)
• Airborne pollution, particles from local sources: Vehicles, incinerators, paper mills, chemical plants, power plants, harsh chemicals from work performed at local shipyards and dry docks. Be aware of local sources that can expose your new boat to corrosive chemicals 

How To Properly Clean