If you own a yacht or a boat, you know how important it is to keep it in good condition and protect it from the harsh marine environment. You probably also know how much work it takes to maintain the shine and gloss of your vessel’s gelcoat, which can fade and oxidize over time due to exposure to UV rays, saltwater, dirt, and debris.
You may have tried using wax to preserve and enhance your gelcoat, but you may have also realized that wax is not very effective or durable. Wax can wear off quickly, requiring frequent reapplication and polishing. Wax can also attract dust and dirt, making your boat look dull and dirty.
Fortunately, there is a better alternative to wax that can offer superior protection and performance for your yacht or boat: ceramic coatings.
What are ceramic coatings?
Ceramic coatings are liquid polymers that contain silicon dioxide particles, also known as silica or quartz. These particles are very small, often in the nanometer range, which means they can fill the microscopic pores and imperfections of your gelcoat, creating a smooth and uniform surface.
When the ceramic coating is applied, the liquid polymer bonds with the gelcoat and cures into a hard, glossy layer that protects the underlying fiberglass and prevents oxidation. The ceramic coating also creates a hydrophobic or water-repellent effect, which means water will bead up and roll off the surface, taking dirt and contaminants with it.
Ceramic coatings are not only more effective than wax, but also more durable and long-lasting. Depending on the brand and quality of the product, a ceramic coating can last up to three years or more, with minimal maintenance and care. Ceramic coatings can also enhance the appearance of your yacht or boat, giving it a deep and rich shine that wax cannot match.
What are the benefits of ceramic coatings for yachts and boats?
Ceramic coatings can offer many benefits for yacht and boat owners, such as:
- Protection from UV rays: UV rays can cause fading, discoloration, and cracking of your gelcoat, reducing its lifespan and value. Ceramic coatings can block up to 99% of UV rays, preserving the colour and integrity of your gelcoat.
- Protection from saltwater: Saltwater can corrode and damage your gelcoat, especially if you store your boat in the water or in a humid climate. Ceramic coatings can prevent saltwater from penetrating your gelcoat, preventing corrosion and rust.
- Protection from dirt and stains: Dirt, stains, bird droppings, fish blood, and other contaminants can adhere to your gelcoat, making it look dirty and unappealing. Ceramic coatings can repel these substances, making them easy to wash off with water or a mild detergent.
- Protection from scratches and abrasions: Scratches and abrasions can occur from docking, loading, unloading, or accidental contact with other objects. Ceramic coatings can resist scratches and abrasions, thanks to their high hardness and flexibility. Ceramic coatings can also self-heal minor scratches, as the heat from the sun can restore the coating’s smoothness.
- Reduced drag and improved fuel efficiency: Drag is the resistance that your boat faces when moving through the water, which can affect its speed and fuel consumption. Ceramic coatings can reduce drag by lowering the surface tension and friction of your gelcoat, allowing your boat to glide faster and smoother through the water. This can also improve your fuel efficiency, saving you money and reducing your environmental impact.
How to apply ceramic coatings to your yacht or boat?
Applying ceramic coatings to your yacht or boat is not a simple or easy task. It requires proper preparation, application, and curing of the product, which can take several hours or days, depending on the size and condition of your vessel. It also requires professional tools and equipment, such as a high-pressure washer, a clay bar, a polisher, a microfiber cloth, and a ceramic coating applicator.
If you are not experienced or confident in applying ceramic coatings yourself, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional ceramic coating installer who can do the job for you. A professional installer can ensure that the ceramic coating is applied correctly and evenly, following the manufacturer’s instructions and specifications. A professional installer can also guarantee the quality and durability of the ceramic coating, as well as provide you with a warranty and aftercare service.
Where to find the best ceramic coatings for yachts and boats?
There are many brands and products of ceramic coatings available on the market, but not all of them are suitable or effective for yachts and boats. Some of the factors that you should consider when choosing a ceramic coating for your vessel are:
- Silicon content: The silicon content of a ceramic coating determines its hardness, gloss, and hydrophobicity. Generally, the higher the silicon content, the better the performance and protection of the ceramic coating. However, too much silicon can also make the ceramic coating brittle and prone to cracking or flaking. Therefore, you should look for a ceramic coating that has a balanced and optimal silicon content, usually between 50% and 70%.
- Hardness: The hardness of a ceramic coating measures its resistance to scratches and abrasions. Hardness is usually tested and ranked using the pencil hardness scale or the Mohs mineral hardness scale, with higher numbers indicating higher scratch resistance. However, hardness alone is not enough to determine the quality of a ceramic coating, as it also depends on the flexibility and adhesion of the product. Therefore, you should look for a ceramic coating that has a high hardness rating, but also a good flexibility and adhesion to your gelcoat.
- Durability: The durability of a ceramic coating measures how long it can last and maintain its performance and protection. Durability is influenced by many factors, such as the quality and quantity of the product, the preparation and application process, the environmental conditions, and the maintenance and care of the vessel. Therefore, you should look for a ceramic coating that has a long durability rating, but also a realistic and honest claim, as some products may exaggerate their longevity or require frequent reapplication or aftercare.
Conclusion
Ceramic coatings are a great way to protect and enhance your yacht or boat, as they can offer many benefits over wax, such as superior UV, saltwater, dirt, stain, scratch, and abrasion protection, as well as reduced drag and improved fuel efficiency. However, ceramic coatings are not easy to apply and require professional tools and skills, as well as proper preparation and curing of the product. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a professional ceramic coating installer who can ensure the quality and durability of the ceramic coating, as well as provide you with a warranty and aftercare service. When choosing a ceramic coating for your vessel, you should consider the silicon content, hardness, durability, and reputation of the product, and look for a reputable and certified brand. By doing so, you can enjoy the beauty and performance of your yacht or boat for years to come.