Removing HEAVY Oxidation from Your Boat's Hull

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Oxidation from a Boat Hull

Preparation: Be sure to clean the boat THOROUGHLY with Dawn or a Boat Soap that cuts grease and removes debris.

1. Assess the Condition: Before starting the oxidation removal process, carefully inspect the boat hull to determine the extent of oxidation and any other surface imperfections.

2. Gather Materials: Collect all the necessary materials and tools including:

- 1500 grit sandpaper

- 2000 grit sandpaper

- Boat-safe compound

- Boat-safe polishing compound

- Microfiber towels

- Buffing pads (appropriate for compound and polishing stages)

- Water source (hose or bucket)

- Woody's Carnuba Wax

- Dual-action polisher (optional but recommended)

3. Prep the Work Area: Choose a shaded area to work in, preferably indoors or under a canopy, to avoid direct sunlight. Ensure the boat hull is clean and free of debris.

Oxidation Removal Process:

4. Wet Sanding with 1500 Grit:

- Soak the 1500 grit sandpaper in water for several minutes to soften it.

- Begin sanding the oxidized areas of the boat hull using light pressure and a circular motion.

- Keep the surface wet while sanding to prevent heat buildup and to wash away loosened oxidation.

- Continue sanding until the oxidation is visibly reduced, periodically rinsing the surface to check your progress.

5. Wet Sanding with 2000 Grit:

- Repeat the wet sanding process with the 2000 grit sandpaper, focusing on smoothing out the surface and further refining the finish.

- Again, keep the surface wet and periodically rinse to assess your progress.

6. Compounding:

- Apply a boat-safe compound to a clean buffing pad or directly onto the boat hull.

- Work the compound into the surface using a dual-action polisher or by hand, following the manufacturer's instructions.

- Buff the surface until the oxidation marks are completely removed and the finish begins to shine.

- Wipe away excess compound residue with a clean microfiber towel.

7. Polishing:

- Apply a boat-safe polishing compound to a clean buffing pad or directly onto the boat hull.

- Polish the surface using a dual-action polisher or by hand, working in small sections at a time.

- Buff until the surface achieves a high gloss shine, removing any remaining haze or imperfections.

- Wipe away excess polishing compound residue with a clean microfiber towel.

8. Waxing:

- Apply Woody's Carnuba Wax to a clean applicator pad or directly onto the boat hull.

- Work the wax into the surface using small, circular motions, ensuring even coverage.

- Allow the wax to haze over according to the manufacturer's instructions.

- Buff the waxed surface with a clean microfiber towel until a brilliant shine is achieved.

9. Final Inspection:

- Carefully inspect the boat hull to ensure all oxidation has been removed and the finish is uniform and glossy.

- Touch up any areas as needed and perform a final wipe-down to remove any remaining residue.

Post-Work Care:

10. Maintenance:

- To prolong the restored finish, regularly wash the boat hull with a boat-safe cleaner and apply a protective wax or sealant as needed.

- Store the boat in a covered area when not in use to prevent future oxidation and UV damage.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove oxidation from a boat hull and restore its appearance to a like-new condition.