


Boat Maintenance Supplies, Boat Paint, Cleaners, Resins & More
Advice & How-To
West Marine offers a complete selection of boat maintenance products and supplies to keep your boat looking its best and get the job done. Our selection of boat cleaning supplies includes boat soaps, hull cleaners, bilge cleaners and degreasers. Respected brands include Star brite, West Marine, 3M and Meguiar’s. Time to paint? Shop boat paint, solvents, boat painting supplies, marine caulking, adhesives and marine finishing products. Need to make repairs? Online and in our stores you will find WEST SYSTEM epoxy, resin, gel coat plus everything you need to prep and paint like a pro. Read our article on how to remove boat decals, written by our in-house experts. Start the season with boating’s best selection of bottom paint by West Marine, Interlux and Pettit. Protect underwater metals with zincs and anodes. And at the end of the season put your boat to bed with our large selection of boat winterization products.
Boat Maintenance FAQ
West Marine offers a comprehensive selection of boat cleaning supplies, including:
- Boat Soaps: Formulated to remove dirt and grime without harming marine surfaces.
- Hull Cleaners: Designed to eliminate stains and growth from the boat's hull.
- Bilge Cleaners and Degreasers: Effective in breaking down oils and residues in the bilge area.
- Deck Brushes and Handles: Tools to facilitate thorough cleaning of various boat surfaces.
- Water Hoses and Accessories: Essential for rinsing and maintaining cleanliness on board.
These products help maintain your boat's appearance and longevity.
To restore your boat's gelcoat finish:
- Clean the Surface: Use a boat soap to remove dirt and debris.
- Apply Rubbing Compound: For oxidized gelcoat, use a rubbing compound to remove the oxidized layer.
- Polish the Gelcoat: Apply a fiberglass polish to enhance shine and smoothness.
- Protect with Marine Wax: Finish by applying a marine wax to safeguard against UV damage and environmental factors.
Regular maintenance with appropriate products can keep your gelcoat looking new.
Marine-specific waxes offer several advantages over regular automotive waxes:
- Formulation: Designed to withstand harsh marine environments, including saltwater exposure and prolonged UV radiation.
- Protection: Provides superior protection against oxidation, chalking, and fading specific to gelcoat surfaces.
- Durability: Longer-lasting in marine conditions, reducing the frequency of applications needed.
Using marine-specific waxes ensures optimal protection and longevity for your boat's finish.
The frequency of applying bottom paint depends on factors such as:
- Type of Paint: Ablative paints may require annual application, while hard paints can last longer.
- Usage: Frequent use in warm, fouling-prone waters may necessitate more frequent applications.
- Storage: Boats stored in water year-round may need more regular maintenance compared to those that are trailered or dry-stored.
Regular inspection of the hull can help determine when a new application is needed.
When performing boat maintenance, it's important to use appropriate safety gear, including:
- Protective Gloves: To prevent skin contact with chemicals and sharp surfaces.
- Eye Protection: Safety glasses or goggles to shield your eyes from debris and splashes.
- Respiratory Protection: Masks or respirators when working with fumes or sanding dust.
- Non-Slip Shoes: Footwear designed to prevent slipping on wet surfaces.
Using the right safety equipment ensures your well-being during maintenance tasks.
Yes, West Marine provides a wide range of tools and accessories for DIY boat repairs, including:
- Hand Tools: Wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers for various repair tasks.
- Power Tools: Drills, sanders, and grinders for advanced maintenance projects.
- Adhesives and Sealants: Marine-grade products for bonding, sealing, and waterproofing.
- Repair Kits: Specialized kits for fiberglass, gelcoat, and paint touch-ups.
These tools and accessories make it easier to handle repairs and maintenance tasks independently.