How to Remove Paint Oxidation on Old Boats

Oxidation on old boats appears as a white or foggy haze that lies just on top of the surface of the paint or gel-coat. Oxidation results from the natural chemicals in the atmosphere, combined with the damaging UV (ultraviolet) rays of the sun. It can appear as a thick encrustation, or look like a thin film, depending upon the severity. Boats which moor in the water or have been stored outside for prolonged periods frequently accumulate oxidation. Remove oxidation and restore the original finish to the painted surface of your boat.

Instructions

1

Remove the boat from the water, if moored, and trailer it to a convenient work location. Mix a solution of dish washing soap and water in a bucket. Use a coarse sponge to clean the oxidized area on the hull. If the surface paint contains green algae, add 1 capful of bleach to the wash bucket. Scrub until the surface layer has no obvious signs of wax, oils or dirt. Dry the area with a terrycloth towel.

2

Plug in an orbital sander and don safety glasses. Use a piece of terrycloth to smear some cutting compound over the oxidized surface. Turn on the sander and buff the compound into the paint, using back-and-forth strokes. Wait for the compound to dry, then wipe the residue with a towel.

3

Change the orbital sander pad to a polishing pad. Smear a layer of polishing compound on the oxidized surface and buff over it with the sander. Wipe off the residue with a towel. If the surface has pits, apply some color restorer-sealer to it with a towel. Use the sander to buff if into the paint finish, then dry it with a towel.

4

Examine the surface for gloss and shine. Buff out any area that appears foggy or hazy -- anything you may have missed. Use the cutting compound and pad first, then finish with the polishing compound and pad.

5

Apply a thick coat of non-abrasive paste wax to the surface with a towel. Rub the wax in by hand, using circular motions. Let it dry to a flaky crust. Buff the residue out with the sander and a clean polishing pad, or wipe it free by hand with a clean towel.