Yacht Repair / Maintenance
Making repairs on your boat or yacht are necessary to prolong their life span, improve their performance, and enhance their appearance, or as part of a routine maintenance. Depending on the circumstances or needs of your boat, you may need to do welding, sandblasting, cleaning, electrical work, fit outs or modifications, painting and trimming measures.
Welding is usually done for fixing leaks that are caused by large holes and gashes on aluminum boats. It is done by joining two metals using a welding gun or brazing rod. Boat repairs using welding equipment are usually done by trained and professional repair personnel, but several boat owners prefer to do it themselves.
Another common repair and maintenance procedure is sandblasting, which involves shaping and smoothing a solid surface by forcing tiny particles at great speeds. Yacht repairs often require sandblasting to even the edges of a repaired portion or patch before galvanizing, painting, and applying gel coat. Sandblasting is also done to remove algae, barnacles, and mineral deposits on the hull. Inhalation of silica dust produced by sandblasting can cause silicosis, so it is necessary that you work in a well-ventilated area, wear protective gear, and breathe using an air supply.
Cleaning your boat requires removing residue from the body, organizing the interior, and maintenance of the motor. Washing the hull must be done weekly to prevent dirt and salt buildup. Avoid using abrasive chemicals and equipment that may scrape or ruin the boat's finish. When cleaning the vinyl interior of your boat, avoid using strong cleansers that can instantly or slowly cause damage. If necessary, use a cleaner that is specially made for boat interiors for removing stains, mildew, grease, and other tough stains.
Electrical work may not be as easy as cleaning your boat, and sometimes it's better to ask an electrician to do the work for you. However, it is also important that you have basic knowledge on how your boat's electrical system works and basic troubleshooting tips. Always use materials and equipment that are approved and recommended for electrical work in boats. Check shore power cords, outlets, and circuit breakers that may be worn out or susceptible to overheating. Extreme heat on wires and power cords usually suggest danger. Also, avoid using several appliances all at once and turn off the device before unplugging it.
While it is highly recommended that you leave electrical modifications and rewiring to an experienced marine electrician, you can take part in your boat fitouts and modifications. Make a list of additions, modifications, and parts or supplies needed for remodelling your boat's interior and exterior. Painting and trimming the hull and the interiors are usually part of the work, so include appropriate equipment in your list, such as grinding and sandblasting equipment, spray paint machines and airbrushes, and boat paints and coats. You can choose from all kinds of hull, sail, and interior designs being offered by most yacht supply shops. It usually takes a team to remodel a boat, so it is best that you include professional marine electricians, decorators, and builders when applying modifications on your boat.
Repairs, routine checkup, and maintenance of your boat are important for a guaranteed smooth sailing experience. Some work and processes involved may require the help of an expert, so make the most out of repairs by prioritizing safety and efficiency.