FAQ | Decks Awash

Decks Awash – Boat Detailing FAQ

Why Should I Wash My Boat Regularly?

In coastal BC waters, regular washing is not cosmetic — it’s preventative maintenance.

Saltwater Causes:

Gelcoat oxidation
Metal corrosion
Waterline staining
Premature fading
Canvas and vinyl deterioration

Salt crystals sit on the surface and continue to attract moisture, accelerating damage even when the boat is dry.

Regular Washing Benefits:

✔ Prevents long-term oxidation
✔ Reduces polishing frequency
✔ Protects stainless & metal fittings
✔ Maintains resale value
✔ Keeps the boat looking “season-ready”

Recommended frequency in BC:

Every 2–4 weeks during boating season
After long trips
Before winter storage

What Are the Benefits of Waxing a Boat?

Wax is your gelcoat’s sunscreen and shield.

What Wax Does:

Seals porous gelcoat
Blocks UV damage
Slows oxidation
Makes cleaning easier
Enhances gloss and depth

In BC, even though we don’t have tropical sun, UV exposure + saltwater = fast oxidation.

Without Wax:

Gelcoat becomes chalky and porous, requiring heavy compounding later (which removes material).

With Wax:

✔ Deep gloss finish
✔ Easier wash maintenance
✔ Longer gelcoat life
✔ Reduced need for aggressive polishing

Recommended: 1–2 times per year, depending on exposure.

What Is Marine Ceramic Coating & Is It Worth It?

Marine ceramic coating is a long-term protective layer that chemically bonds to the gelcoat.

It lasts significantly longer than traditional wax.

Benefits of Ceramic Coating:

✔ Superior UV protection
✔ Extreme gloss & depth
✔ Water beading effect
✔ Salt & stain resistance
✔ Easier cleaning
✔ Longer protection (1–3+ years depending on product)

Ideal For:

Newer boats
Dark hull colors
High-end yachts
Owners who want minimal maintenance

Ceramic requires proper surface correction before application — prep is everything.

What Does a Full Detail Include?

A full detail typically includes:

Exterior:

Complete wash
Non-skid deck cleaning
Waterline cleaning
Stainless & metal polishing
Compound (if needed)
Machine polish
Wax or ceramic protection

Interior:

Vinyl cleaning & UV protection
Carpet cleaning
Mold & mildew treatment
Galley & head sanitization
Window & isinglass cleaning

How Often Should I Detail My Boat?

Maintenance Wash: Every 2–4 weeks
Full Detail (Polish & Wax): Annually
Oxidation Removal: As needed
Ceramic Coating: Every 2–3 years (with maintenance washes)

Does Compounding Damage Gelcoat?

Not when performed professionally.

Compounding removes oxidation by lightly leveling the gelcoat surface. Over-compounding by inexperienced operators can reduce gelcoat thickness — which is why professional evaluation matters.

At Decks Awash, we assess:

Oxidation level
Gelcoat thickness condition
Required cut level
Correct RPM & pad selection

Can You Remove Heavy Oxidation?

Yes. Most oxidation can be restored through:

Multi-stage compounding
Machine polishing
Protective sealing

Severe neglect may require multiple steps for best results.

Do You Detail Teak Decks?

Yes.

We use:

Professional 2-step teak cleaners
Soft-bristle techniques
Teak brighteners

Sanding is avoided unless absolutely necessary to preserve teak lifespan.

Do You Offer Pre-Sale Detailing?

Absolutely.

Professional detailing:

Improves listing photos
Increases perceived value
Speeds up sale time
Creates strong first impressions during viewings

It is one of the highest ROI services before listing your vessel.

Are You Insured?