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Maintenance of fiberglass boats
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Release time:
2021-03-17
Fiberglass boats have the characteristic of requiring less maintenance, which is determined by the superior performance of fiberglass itself. However, like all materials, fiberglass also has aging issues, although the aging process is relatively slow. Even if a gel coat resin is applied to the surface of the boat to form a protective layer, the thickness is only 0.3-0.5 mm, and it can still be damaged and thinned due to frequent friction and environmental erosion. Therefore, the fact that fiberglass requires less maintenance does not mean it requires no maintenance. Proper maintenance can not only keep the appearance beautiful but also extend the lifespan of fiberglass boats.
Fiberglass is a composite material made of synthetic resin as the matrix and glass fiber as the reinforcing material. It has strength comparable to steel, excellent properties such as water resistance and corrosion resistance, a beautiful surface that is as smooth as a mirror, and the ability to be molded as a whole. However, it also has some shortcomings, such as lower stiffness and poor wear resistance. In particular, there are many factors that affect quality (such as the quality of raw materials, the technical quality of operators, production conditions, and environmental factors, etc.), which can lead to significant differences in the quality of similar products.
Compared to steel and wooden boats,fiberglass boatshave the characteristic of requiring less maintenance, which is determined by the superior properties of fiberglass itself. However, like all materials, fiberglass also has aging issues, but the aging process is relatively slow. Even if a gel coat resin is applied to the surface of the boat to form a protective layer, due to the thickness of only 0.3-0.5 mm, it can still be damaged and thinned under frequent friction and environmental erosion. Therefore, less maintenance for fiberglass does not mean no maintenance; appropriate maintenance can not only maintain a beautiful appearance but also extend the lifespan of fiberglass boats.
In addition to regular maintenance of machines and equipment,fiberglass boatsthe key points for the maintenance of the boat are as follows: in addition to regular maintenance of machines and equipment, the key points for the maintenance of fiberglass boats are as follows:
Avoid contact with sharp and hard objects.fiberglass boatsWhen the hull rubs against rocks, concrete structures, or metal components on the shore, scratches and other damages may occur. Protective measures should be taken, such as installing anti-collision and wear-resistant metal and rubber fender materials at the bow, dock areas, and sides of the boat, and laying down wear-resistant rubber or plastic soft materials on the deck.
If damage is found, repair it promptly. Regularly check the hull; if resin peeling, deep scratches, or exposed fibers are found, they must be repaired in a timely manner. Otherwise, water infiltration will accelerate the damage.
When not in use, especially during the cold winter season, the boat should be taken ashore. Due to the certain water absorption of fiberglass, water can gradually seep into the interior along the tiny channels at the interface of glass fiber and resin, causing the strength of the fiberglass to gradually decrease. When the infiltrated water freezes upon encountering cold, it expands the seepage channels, causing greater harm. Therefore, every winter when the boat is not in use, it should be taken out of the water and placed ashore to allow the infiltrated water to evaporate, gradually restoring its strength. After taking the boat ashore, it should be cleaned first, placed properly with padding, and usually stored indoors. If stored outdoors, it should be covered with a tarpaulin and ventilated regularly to prevent moisture.
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