Posted: December 1, 2011
Shurhold offers a DIY buffing primer.
Any boater can restore a glossy shine to a boat’s fiberglass by following five simple steps from Shurhold Industries. You will need removable painter’s tape, a 1-inch paintbrush, microfiber towels, a dual-action polisher, buffing cream, a wool buffing pad, polymer polish/protectant and a foam polishing pad.You have to clean the boat’s surface, or you’ll only be grinding dust and dirt into the gelcoat. Then, tape off areas such as pinstripes and vinyl lettering.
After that, most boaters will have to buff away oxidation before applying a protective layer of polish. To start this process, a thin coating of buffing cream should be applied over a 2-foot-square area with a 1-inch paintbrush. For the best results, start with a small amount of product and add more if necessary.
Using a dual-action polisher/buffer with a wool buffing pad, move over the work area — first side to side and then top to bottom. This helps ensure all areas are covered and enables you to work quickly and effectively without worrying about swirl marks and surface damage. Buff with light pressure, about 1,800-2,500 opm, until only a minor residue is left. Excess buffing cream can then be removed with a clean, dry microfiber cloth to reveal a deep shine. A slower buffing speed is recommended when working near exposed antennas, lines and horns, to prevent damage.
Once the hull is clean and shiny, it is time to protect it. Surface protectant should be applied to seal the gelcoat and help prevent future oxidation. Polymer-based formulas are easier to use, have a much longer life and guarantee UV protection.
When applying polish, it’s best to use a foam polishing pad and a multispeed, dual-action, random-motion polisher. Applying about a quarter-sized amount to the pad and then smearing it on the surface prior to turning on the polisher works best. Just like buffing, work in a 2-foot-square area in the same pattern. The polisher should be at a medium-high speed, and the sealer should be worked in until it has almost vanished. Then, excess protectant cream can be removed with a clean, dry microfiber cloth. Now, the vessel will look like it belongs in a showroom.
You can find more tips like these at shurhold.com.
