Ceramic Coating
Boats

Ceramic coating for boats

By , Editor · Updated

A ceramic coating on a boat does the same job it does on a car: it makes the surface slicker, so salt, scum and bird droppings rinse off more easily, and it slows down the chalky oxidation that sun does to gelcoat. It does not stop dock rash or fix oxidation that is already there.

Most of the work is prep. Chalky or faded gelcoat has to be compounded and polished back before anything goes on, and on a bigger boat that can take longer than the coating itself. Ask whether the price includes that, and whether the product is one the maker sells for marine use.

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Common questions

Is ceramic coating worth it on a boat?

For a boat that lives outside or in salt water, usually yes, if the gelcoat is in good shape or gets restored first. Cleaning gets easier and the finish fades more slowly. On a boat with heavy oxidation, budget for compounding before any coating.

Can I coat a boat myself?

Yes, on a small boat if you can wet-sand or compound gelcoat and work out of direct sun. Most owners of larger boats pay a specialist because the prep is hours of machine polishing at awkward angles.

How long does a boat coating last?

Shorter than on a car. Salt, sun and constant water are harder on it, so expect the maker's rating to be optimistic for a boat kept in the water, and plan on a maintenance spray between washes.

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