How to buff a fibreglass boat

Shurhold Industries is said to have simplified the process of buffing a fibreglass boat by following a few simple steps.

Owners will need to removable painter’s tape, a 25mm paintbrush, microfiber towels, a dual-action polisher, buffing cream, a wool buffing pad, polymer polish/protectant and a foam polishing pad.

To start with, the boat’s surface must be thoroughly cleaned, then areas such as pin stripes and vinyl lettering will need to be taped off. Most boaters will have to buff away oxidation before applying a protective layer of polish. For best results, it is recommended that owners should start with a small amount of product and add more along the way if necessary. Then using a dual-action polisher/buffer with a wool buffing pad, owners can move over the work area, side to side, then top to bottom. Light pressure should be applied when buffing until only minor residue is left.
Excess buffing cream can be removed with a clean, dry microfiber cloth.

Once the hull is clean it is time to protect it.

Surface-protectant should be applied to seal the gelcoat and help prevent future oxidation. Polymer-based formulas are said to be easier to use, have a much longer life and guarantee UV protection.

When applying polish, it’s best to use a foam polishing pad and multi-speed, dual-action, random-motion polisher. Applying about a quarter-size amount to the pad and then smearing it on the surface prior to turning on the polisher works best.

It is recommended that the polisher be at a medium high-speed and the sealer should be worked in until it has almost vanished.

Shurhold Industries offers all the tools needed to buff a fibreglass boat like a professional. Buff Magic is said to be an excellent tool for removing oxidation, before sealing the fresh surface with Pro Polish Wax. Shurhold’s Dual-Action Polisher is also said to be great for do-it-yourselfers of all experience levels.

For more information visit www.shurhold.com.