Boat Restoration

Removing Heavy Oxidation

Removing heavy oxidation requires using a more aggressive compound with a compounding pad to secure a professional result. It is important to avoid leaving the buffing pad in one spot for too long as this may damage the paint or gelcoat and it is always a good idea to practise with the buffer before beginning to avoid burning through and deep swirl marks.

Suggested Product: 3M™ Marine Imperial Compound or Finishing Material 06044E

Removing Minor Scratches and Returning the Boat's Shine

After using an aggressive compound to remove any remaining minor scratches or swirl marks and to restore the original high gloss finish follow with a boat glaze. As a final stage to prevent surface fading and protect against UV damage apply a boat wax.

Suggested Product: 3M™ Marine Finesse it II finishing material 09048E

Followed by: 3M™ Marine Liquid Wax 09027E or 3M™ Marine Ultra Performance Paste Wax 09030E applied using any 3M™ Scotch Brite High performance cloth HPW 2010

Removing Light Oxidation

When completing tasks such as removing small rust spots, stains and light oxidation that occur on newer boats a less aggressive compound is more suitable then heavy duty cleaners. Apply a small amount of fibreglass cleaner on a rag or for larger areas buff out the spot with a Superbuff Pad, then wipe it off with a dry cloth.

Suggested Product: 3M™ Marine Fibreglass Cleaner and wax 09010E applied using 3M™ High Performance Cloth or any 3M™ Marine Superbuff pad

Restoring and Polishing Metals

Over time metal surfaces such as stainless steel, brass, bronze, copper and chrome can develop rust oxidation and tarnish. On areas such as cleats using a cloth and metal polish to restore the metal will not only improve the appearance but will improve the handling of the lines.

Suggested Products: 3M™ Marine Metal Restorer and Polish 09018E applied using 3M™ High Performance Cloth

Restoring Dull Vinyl

To remove dirt and grime from plastic, vinyl and rubber interiors such as cushions and seating wipe down with vinyl specific cleaner. Follow with a vinyl conditioner and protector to combat the effects of the harsh marine environment.

Suggested Products: 3M™ Marine Vinyl Cleaner and Restorer 09029E

3M™ Marine Vinyl Conditioner and Protector 09023E applied using 3M™ High Performance Cloth

Restoring and removing haziness from marine plastics 3M™ Marine Clear plastic restorer 09044E contains mild abrasives safely restore and remove fine scratches and haziness from most marine plastics. Can be used on most tinted plastics (test for suitability).