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Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
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
Every 2–4 weeks during boating season
After long trips
Before winter storage
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.
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.
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
Maintenance Wash: Every 2–4 week
Full Detail (Polish & Wax): Annually
Oxidation Removal: As needed
Ceramic Coating: Every 2–3 years (with maintenance washes)
Not when done 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
Yes. Most oxidation can be restored through:
Multi-stage compounding
Machine polishing
Protective sealing
Severe neglect may require multiple steps for best results.
Yes.
We use:
Professional 2-step teak cleaners
Soft-bristle techniques
Teak brighteners
Sanding is avoided unless absolutely necessary to preserve teak lifespan.
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.
Yes.
Decks Awash is fully insured and operates with:
General Liability Insurance
Professional marine detailing standards
Boats in British Columbia face:
Saltwater exposure
Heavy rain cycles
UV radiation
Winter moisture storage
Organic growth buildup
Preventative detailing:
Extends gelcoat life
Protects resale value
Reduces long-term restoration costs
Keeps your vessel marina-presentable year-round
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