Mar 28, 2022When it comes to protecting a boat's surface, owners are faced with a dizzying number of products to choose from. Shurhold Industries breaks down the differences between the primary types with a Clean-N-Simple Tip.
Collectively referred to as "wax," finish protectants are a sacrificial layer that's applied to a surface. Their purpose is to sheet-off water and delay the natural oxidation of paint and gelcoat caused by the environment and UV rays. There are four main types: wash and wax combinations, cleaner waxes, paste waxes and polymer waxes. A video is at www.bit.ly/3vWCzyg.
Wash and wax combinations are the least effective. While they'll clean a boat's hull and deck, they don't add any discernable level of protection. Once applied and the surface dry, water doesn't bead as it should. This means it's not shielding against contaminants and UV rays.
Cleaner waxes contain an aggregate that polishes the gelcoat while leaving a layer of wax. The ingredients compete with each other and the products struggle to do both jobs well. Plus, because they typically contain naturally-abrasive talc, they're messy and can leave small scratches in the boat's finish unless a time-consuming buffing process is completed.
Paste waxes are the original form defense against the ravages of weather. They're very good at leaving a high level of protection and offer good water beading, but have a long cure time and require a lot of elbow grease, making them difficult to use. More often than not, they either bake onto the surface, making polishing difficult, or are buffed too early, reducing their effectiveness.
A polymer wax, such as Shurhold's Pro Polish Wax & Sealant, is the modern alternative. Highly concentrated, the formula creates a chemical bond to the surface to quickly seal it with a water-repellant and UV-resistant high-gloss finish that lasts for three to four months. Applied to a clean, dry work area with a microfiber cloth, it can be easily buffed by hand or with a Shurhold Dual Action Polisher. It provides excellent water beading characteristics and is ideal for gelcoat, paint and vinyl graphics.
A 16 oz. container of Shurhold Pro Polish Wax & Sealant costs $19.98 USD; a one-gallon jug is $94.98 USD.
www.shurhold.com.
Choosing the right boat wax is simple
Corporate Profile - Dometic Outdoor Global Marine Division
Dometic Outdoor Global Marine Division is one organization that has set the bar high globally on quality standards in all aspects of its operation. From its human resources practices to its product development and manufacturing standards, the company strives for 110% in all it does. Dometic’s Vancouver, British Columbia design and manufacturing facility is the largest marine focused company in Canada. Its global standards are admirable, and our entire industry can learn from its leadership and positive practices.
In 1962, Dometic (then under the name Teleflex) developed, launched, and marketed a mechanical steering system and with its success came the first hydraulic steering in 1983 and No FeedBack Steering in ’91.
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Launchings
Monaco Energy Boats Could Be Heading to Canada
The 10th edition of the Monaco Energy Boat Challenge (MEBC) has wrapped up at the Yacht Club de Monaco (YCM) and it gives a compelling look at the future of electric boating.
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People
Torqeedo announces new structure and names business unit management
Left to right: Matthias Vogel, Fabian Bez, Sven Mostoegl
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