Written in Partnership with AkzoNobel: AkzoNobel’ Five Fall Maintenance Tips
September 11, 2025
As the summer boating season draws to a close, AkzoNobel’s yacht coatings team shares expert advice to help boat owners get ahead of fall maintenance and simplify next season’s launch.
Ray Tucker, Regional Technical Service Manager, says: “Fall maintenance is a key opportunity to set the boat up for success next season. It’s the best time to inspect, clean and address any damage before it has a chance to worsen over the winter.
“A spot of preventative maintenance now can go a long way toward avoiding costly repairs and time-consuming prep in the spring.”
1. Clean hulls carefully
Use a 25° or 15° pressure washer tip (never a 0° or rotary nozzle) to clean off slime, algae, and marine growth. Take extra care around rubber components like outdrives to prevent damage.
After the hull is clean, wash from the top down to remove waterline stains and grime. If cleaning tanks or bilges, rinse any run-off to avoid damaging antifouling coatings.
2. Assess above-water areas for refinishing needs
Inspect decks, hull sides, and other areas above the waterline. If the gelcoat or paint has lost its shine or become chalky, consider refinishing.
If repainting isn’t necessary, clean and polish thoroughly when suitable. Make sure to verify if your topcoat technology is appropriate for polishing before carrying out the procedure.
Apply Awlgrip® Awlcare®, a non-yellowing polymer sealer, to protect against environmental pollutants and the winter weather.
3. Cover and protect topsides properly
Once you have cleaned and applied Awlcare to the topside, cover the boat with a ventilated system to prevent moisture buildup before storing the boat for the next season. Avoid shrink wrap sitting directly on painted or gelcoated surfaces, which can lead to micro-blistering.
Ensure covers are tightly secured to avoid flapping or abrasion that can damage the finish during storms or long-term storage. Remember to assess below the water line before storing the boat.
4. Check below the waterline for coating and gear damage
Fall is the best time to assess the hull and underwater hardware for any signs of wear. Look for scratches from beaching, chipped or worn antifouling paint, damaged props or running gear, and pits or rusting on the metal surface, which indicates early signs of electrolysis on metal components.
If your coating system is showing widespread failure, particularly if it’s more than eight years old, it may be time to strip it back and start fresh. A barrier coat such as Interlux® InterProtect® or Sea Hawk® Tuff Stuff can provide essential protection against water intrusion and corrosion on metal and composite substrates.
5. Recoat with a multi-season antifouling product
Fall is a great time to apply a new coat. Multi-seasonal products like Interlux® Micron CSC, Trilux® 33, or Sea Hawk Biocop TF provide long-lasting protection and allow for flexible launch timing in spring.
These coatings are ideal for boats that are hauled and relaunched multiple times or spend extended time in the water.
By following these expert tips, boat owners can reduce the workload in spring and ensure their vessels are well protected through the off-season. When unsure or not comfortable with following the suggested tips, consider consulting a boatyard or professional applicator. A little effort now can mean a faster, smoother return to the water when the new season begins.
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