What's wrong with my boat?
Tap what you see on your boat. Each answer tells you what it is, what to do, and where to read more.
My hull looks chalky, faded, or dull
That is oxidation. The sun has broken down the top layer of the gelcoat. Wax will not fix it. It needs to be cut back with a compound, then polished and protected.
There is a brown or yellow stripe at the waterline
That is a waterline stain from minerals and growth in the water. Regular soap will not remove it. An acid-based hull cleaner will. Keep it off metal, and wax afterward.
Read: How to remove hull stains and waterline scum See products
Black streaks run down from the rails and fittings
Those are runoff streaks, left by dirty water running down the hull. A black streak remover takes them off, and regular washing keeps them from building up.
Black or gray spots on the seats or canvas
That is mildew. It grows where moisture sits. Clean it with a mildew remover, then dry everything and keep the boat ventilated.
Read: How to remove mildew from boat seats and canvas See products
White spots appear after I wash
Those are water spots, minerals left behind when water dries. Dry the boat with a chamois right after rinsing, or use a spot-free rinse filter for the final rinse.
The seats are faded, stiff, or sticky
That is usually sun damage or chemical residue. Clean the vinyl, rinse it well, and protect it with a UV protectant every few weeks. Cracks cannot be cleaned away, so protect seats before they get there.
Water no longer beads on the hull
The wax or sealant has worn off. Wash the boat, check for oxidation, and put on a fresh coat.
The non-skid still looks dirty after washing
Dirt settles into the texture of non-skid, and regular soap struggles to lift it. A non-skid deck cleaner and a deck brush will.
Swirl marks show on a dark hull
Those are fine scratches from washing or buffing. A finishing polish on a dual-action polisher removes them. Then protect the finish.
After polishing, I can see a different color through the gelcoat
Stop polishing that spot. The gelcoat may be cut through, and it will need a gelcoat repair, not more polishing.
I am not sure where to start
Start with a good wash and a close look in daylight. A clean boat shows you what it actually needs.