Whether you're a first-time boat owner or a seasoned one, preventative maintenance is vital to your boat's longevity. This includes preventing damage from saltwater corrosion.
If not properly taken care of, saltwater corrosion can damage your boat and its components. It can lead to structural damage, engine damage, and impact on your electrical system.
In today's article, we are going to discuss 5 ways you can prevent saltwater corrosion.
Rinse with Fresh Water:
This is basic boat maintenance, but it is important to always do. After you're done boating, rinse your vessel off to help prevent saltwater corrosion. Because salt accumulates over time, thoroughly rinsing your boat with fresh water will help remove salt deposits. Areas prone to corrosion include engine components, metal fittings, and your trailer. Make sure to rinse those areas well.
Flush Your Engine: Another common practice to prevent saltwater corrosion is flushing your engine with fresh water every time you use it. When the salt dries up, it leaves deposits that can corrode the inside of your engine, leading to bigger problems. Not only does flushing with freshwater prevent corrosion, but it also helps your engine perform better.
Use A Corrosion Inhibitor
Another way to prevent saltwater corrosion is by applying a corrosion inhibitor (like T-9) to metal surfaces to protect them from saltwater exposure. These inhibitors create a barrier that prevents saltwater from reaching the metal and causing corrosion.
Apply Protective Coatings
Marine-grade paint, such as Seahawk and other coatings, can help protect metal surfaces on your boat from saltwater corrosion. These coatings provide a barrier against saltwater and help prevent corrosion.
Install Zincs on Your Vessel
Install a zinc ( also known as sacrificial anode) on your boat's hull as well as other metal components. They are used to counteract the corrosion that submerged metals would end up facing.
Do Not Mix Metals: Because salt water is conductive, placing different kinds of metal in the water can create an electric current that in turn deteriorates them. So when using a zinc, place it wisely. If you need to use different metals, make sure to insulate them from each other by using non-conductive materials.
Routine Inspections
Another part of owning a boat is making sure your boat is good to go every time you go to use it. Routinely inspecting for saltwater deposits or corrosion can help you promptly address the issue before a real problem begins. Always check your hull, fittings, and engine for signs of rust or pitting, and make
regular inspections of the boat's metal components, including the hull, engine, and fittings. Look for signs of corrosion, such as rust or pitting, and address any issues promptly.
When To Seek Professional Help
Saltwater corrosion can damage your vessel. It can lead to engine performance issues, electrical/electronic issues, and structural damage. If saltwater has significantly damaged critical components on your boat, such as your engine, propeller, or structural parts of your hull, it's time to call a professional.
Ensuring that these parts are in good condition is vital for the safety of everyone on board.
Providing Peace of Mind
The Mobile Mariner is committed to providing quality boat maintenance and repair service right at your home, dock, or slip. If you have saltwater corrosion that you cannot handle on your own, call us. We will diagnose the severity and provide a solution for your problem.
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