Tips for Restoring a Used Boat

If you’re planning to restore a used boat, there are some important steps you’ll need to take to prepare. Whether you’re doing this so you can enjoy it with friends and family on the water or so you can sell it for some extra cash, there are many ways to handle the process. We want to make sure our customers are well informed before they tackle this task. After all, restoring a used boat can be a very involved process, so it’s important to learn as much as possible before you begin.

Conduct an Inspection

You’ll want to start by gathering as much information as possible about the used boat from the previous owner. Find out what repairs have been done and how was the boat maintenance schedule. Don’t forget to ask about damage, how often the craft was used, and general boat upkeep. Some problems you’ll want to steer clear of include major electrical issues, mold, and engine issues. Remember that boat restoration is no small feat, so you want to know what you’re getting into before you make a commitment.

During the inspection, if at any point you feel uncertain about the condition of the boat, you might want to get a professional opinion. Once you feel confident in your inspection, start making a list of all the things you’ll need to begin your boat restoration. One common mistake made by beginners is becoming too occupied with cosmetic repairs and ignoring the more important systems. These systems will be more expensive to repair, so don’t leave them for last. You can’t make use of a boat that doesn't perform well, nor will it be worth much.

Make Your Workspace

You’ll need to have a clean and functional workspace for the boat restoration process. This is especially important if you live in a region where there are extreme weather conditions. If you’re approaching this as a part-time project and you plan to work on it over the course of several months, you could end up working in rain or the snow. The ideal workspace will offer adequate overhead coverage so you can work on the restoration regardless of the weather conditions.

It’s also a good idea to have your workspace located close to home so you won’t waste much time traveling. Make sure you have access to a power source at both ends of the craft. Other essentials include sufficient light and access to a water supply.

Pick the Right Tools

Once you’ve created an appropriate workspace, you’ll need to gather all the required tools, such as goggles, gloves, nuts, bolts, screws, fasteners, hose and wire clamps, pipe fittings, and sandpaper. Resorting a boat requires a lot of time and effort, so having everything you need will make a difference in the process.

If you have any questions or are looking for some quality used boats for sale, get in touch with us at L&M Marine LLC in Stapleton, AL. We welcome all those in Mobile, AL, and Pensacola, FL.