If you’re the owner of a classic wooden boat, then you know that proper maintenance is key to keeping it in good condition for years to come. Wooden boats require care, and if you’re not familiar with how to properly take care of them, you could end up doing more damage than good. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips and tricks for maintaining your classic wooden boat so that it stays in great shape for years to come!
Keep Your Wooden Boat Clean
When people think of maintenance it is often synonymous with cleaning, and for good reason. A key part of taking care of your classic wooden boat is to keep it clean. You should clean your boat regularly, even if it doesn’t seem dirty. Anything from pollen to bird droppings can damage the wood and affect its appearance, so it’s important to remove them as soon as possible.
The best wooden boats are cleaned regularly for the interior and exterior alike.
Interior Cleaning
Why is cleaning the interior of your wooden boat important? Believe it or not, the cleanliness of the interior plays a major role in the lifespan of your boat. Just like your home, if the interior of your boat is not cleaned regularly it will start to show signs of wear and tear much quicker.
Cleaning the interior of your wooden boat is not as difficult as you may think. Start by removing all of the cushions and taking everything out of storage. Once everything is out, you can vacuum or sweep the floors and wipe down all of the surfaces. If you have a removable carpet, be sure to clean that as well.
After the interior is clean, you can put everything back in its place. Be sure to put the cushions back on last so they don’t get dirty again while you’re working.
Exterior Cleaning
Cleaning the exterior of your wooden boat is just as important as cleaning the interior. The first step is to wash the hull to remove any dirt or other debris that could damage the wood. You can use a pressure washer for this, but be sure to use a low setting so you don’t damage the wood.
Be sure to use a mild marine detergent and avoid using too much pressure.
After the hull is clean, you can move on to cleaning the deck. Start by sweeping off any loose dirt or debris, then use a mild deck cleaner to remove any stains. Be sure to rinse the cleaner off completely in the process.
Engine And Mechanical Maintenance
Another important aspect of taking care of your classic wooden boat is to regularly maintain the engine and other mechanical parts. This includes things like changing the oil, checking the fluids, and making sure all of the moving parts are properly lubricated.
It’s also a good idea to have a professional inspect the engine and other mechanical parts on a regular basis. This will help ensure that everything is in good working condition and catch any potential problems before they become serious.
Dry Docking Your Classic Wooden Boat
One of the best things you can do for your classic wooden boat is to dry dock it regularly. Dry docking is when you remove the boat from the water and allow it to sit on land for some time. This allows you to inspect the hull for any damage and make any necessary repairs.
It’s also a good opportunity to clean the boat from top to bottom, including the hull, deck, and engine.
Dry docking your boat is something that should be done at least once a year, but more often if possible.
Resealing When Necessary
Another important part of taking care of your classic wooden boat is to reseal it when necessary. The sealant helps protect the wood from the elements and keeps it looking its best.
You’ll know it’s time to reseal your boat when you start to see cracks or chips in the existing sealant. Be sure to clean the surface thoroughly before applying the new sealant.
Applying a new coat of sealant is not a difficult task, but it should be done carefully. Be sure to follow the instructions on the product you’re using to ensure the best results.
Coeur Custom: Classic Wooden Boat Restoration
Now that you know how to take care of your classic wooden boat, it’s time to get out there and enjoy it! If you need help with any aspect of restoration or maintenance, be sure to contact Coeur Custom. We specialize in classic wooden boat restoration and can help you keep your boat looking its best. Contact us today to learn more!