Aluminum Boat Polishing Guide

Aluminum is a great material for building boats since it’s lightweight while also being strong and corrosion-resistant. However, aluminum boats can start to lose their shine as time goes on. If you’re interested in making your aluminum boat look its best, check out this polishing guide from the experts at L&M Marine.

Choose the Right Time

Aluminum can heat up very quickly, especially if left sitting in the sun. We recommend choosing a cooler day to polish your aluminum boat, preferably in a shaded place. If you don’t have much choice over when to polish your aluminum boat, try covering it with a tarp or towels beforehand to get the temperature down a little. 

Clean Off Debris

Dirt, grime, and debris can build up on the surface of your aluminum boat over time. Cleaning your boat up a bit before you start polishing will make the whole process easier. 

Use an Aluminum Boat Cleaner

While soap and water will get the gunk off of your boat’s surface, you’ll need to use a specialized cleaner in order to restore the aluminum’s shine and protect it long-term. Many aluminum boat owners use a low-micron cleaner for this purpose, though you should check your owner’s manual to see which products are recommended. 

Properties of Aluminum

Aluminum develops an oxidized coat when exposed to the air. You’ll need to break through this coat in order to polish your watercraft, which is part of the reason why it is so important that you use a cleaner specially designed to be used on aluminum.

For more information or to shop our selection of aluminum boats, visit L&M Marine at our dealership in Stapleton, Alabama. We also offer parts ordering and boat servicing. We are proud to serve communities like Mobile, Alabama and Pensacola, Florida.