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Practical guide to boat hull repair

A boat's hull is its fundamental structure and ensures its stability and safety when sailing. However, over time, it can subject to damage caused by wear, impact, shock or water ingress. In this article, we'll cover the different methods of boat hull repair, the steps to follow and the importance of protection to ensure the longevity of your craft.

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Damage assessment and preparation

Before starting any repairs, it is essential to thoroughly assess the damage to the boat's hull. Look for cracks, scratches, dents or delaminated areas. Carefully clean the damaged surface and remove any existing coatings for better adhesion.

Repair of cracks and scratches

For small cracks and scratches, you can use an epoxy putty specially designed for boats. Apply the putty to the damaged areas using a spatula and smooth the surface. Once dry, sand lightly to achieve an even finish.

Repair of dents and delaminated areas

Larger dents often require repair using fiberglass lamination techniques. After cleaning the area damaged, apply epoxy resin to the surface and overlay it with chopped fiberglass. Repeat this step, adding several layers of fiberglass and resin, taking care to smooth each layer. After complete drying, sand to achieve a smooth surface.

Hull protection

Once repairs are complete, it's essential to protect your boat's hull. Apply a coat of gelcoat or a special marine paint to ensure watertightness and weather resistance. Be sure to use compatible products with your boat's hull material.

Regular maintenance

To prolong the life of your boat hull, it is important to practice regular maintenance. Regularly inspect your hull for potential damage, clean it using suitable products and protect it with a marine wax or UV protection product.

What you need to remember !

Repairing your boat's hull is a crucial step in ensuring its longevity and maintaining its performance at sea. By following the right steps to assess, repair and protect the hull, you can keep your boat in good condition and avoid bigger problems in the future. If you're unsure of your repair skills, it's advisable to call in a professional like Boatngo. Our team has built a network of local professional laminators who offer availability, expertise and fair pricing. Get your personalized quote within 48 hours by clicking here !

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Q&A

Answers to frequently asked questions

Boat hull repair is the process of restoring and repairing damage to the boat's hull. This can include repairing cracks, impacts, tears, dents or other types of damage caused by accidents, impacts or normal wear and tear.

A boat hull repair is necessary when you notice visible damage to the hull, such as cracks, deformations or damaged areas. It is important to treat these problems quickly to prevent them from worsening and compromising the structural integrity of your boat.

Boat hull repair professionals use different techniques depending on the nature and extent of the damage. This may include applying special resins, fiberglass repairs, puttying, sanding, smoothing and painting to restore the hull surface. They can also replace damaged sections if necessary.

It is recommended that experienced professionals be used to repair your boat's hull. Hull repair requires specialized skills and the use of appropriate tools and materials. Entrusting the repair to experts ensures quality work and minimizes the risk of further damage.

The cost of boat hull repair depends on various factors such as the extent of the damage, the size of the hull and the materials needed for the repair. It is recommended to request quotes from several professionals to compare prices and services. An accurate assessment of the damage is also necessary to obtain a reliable estimate.

While some accidents are unavoidable, there are preventive measures you can take to minimize damage to your boat's hull. Avoid bumping into underwater obstacles, properly moor your boat, use hull guards, and perform regular hull maintenance to detect any signs of damage or deterioration. It is also important to sail carefully and avoid dangerous or shallow areas.

Repairing a boat's hull has several benefits. It maintains the structural integrity of the hull, ensures safety by preventing leaks or failures, improves boat performance by reducing water resistance, and preserves the value and aesthetic appearance of your boat.

When choosing a boat hull repair professional, be sure to look for qualified and experienced experts in the field. Check their credentials, certifications and past achievements. Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from other boat owners and read customer reviews. When you use Boatngo, you are guaranteed to get the best professionals.

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