Cleaning Of The Fiberglass - Tayana -48 Owner's Manual

reducing the frequently of others and brining about a change in
materials and techniques.
The one-piece construction eliminates seams and the working of
the hull with all the attendant maintenance problems. Barring
accident, well-built fiberglass hulls stay solid, safe and leak free
for many years.
The key to the appearance of a fiberglass boat is the surface
finish, which is called gel coat. It is the gel coat takes all the
weathering, dirt, and minor spaces.

2.19 Cleaning of the Fiberglass

Depending on water conditions and use, the boat can pick up a
film of dirt. To keep fiberglass looking fresh and clean, wax and
buff the surface at least once a year and wash regularly. It is
essential that salt deposits are washed off with fresh water
before leaving the boat.
For washing, a solution of warm water and mild detergent should
be used, followed by thorough hosing with fresh water.
A seasonal buffing and waxing of the gel coat surface helps to
prevent soiling and preserve gloss and color. In most cases an
ordinary fine grade auto polish or combined polish/cleaner will
serve this purpose. However, if the finished has faded or exhibits
a chalky film, a fine grade auto -rubbing compound should
relieve the condition. Whether a power buffer is used or the
polishing is done by hand, it is undesirable to use more than a
lightly abrasive and edges, not to cut through the gel coat.
We recommend dark colored hulls be waxed twice per year to
maintain their luster. Any high quality wax may be applied after
buffing. Generally speaking, treat the finish of the yacht in the
same way as the finish of a car keeping in mind that the yacht
endures much more harsh conditions, often without shelter.
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