Boat Corrosion Prevention Tips

Boat ownership is a joy and a privilege, but it also comes with various responsibilities—regular and proactive maintenance is among the most important of these.

Corrosion or rust can compromise the structural integrity of your boat and lead to costly repairs and safety hazards. Fortunately, you can keep corrosion at bay with knowledge and various proactive measures. Here are a few essential boat corrosion prevention tips to help you safeguard your vessel for the long haul.

Types of Corrosion

Before diving into prevention strategies, you'll want to be familiar with the types of corrosion that can affect boats:

Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals are in electrical contact in the presence of an electrolyte (such as seawater). The more reactive metal corrodes faster.

Electrolytic corrosion occurs due to stray electrical currents from the boat’s electrical system or nearby vessels.

Crevice corrosion occurs in confined spaces where stagnant water accumulates, such as under gaskets and seals.

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Keeping your boat clean is the first line of defense against corrosion. Saltwater, in particular, is highly corrosive and can accelerate the degradation of metal components. To prevent this, rinse your boat with fresh water after each use, paying attention to metal parts and fittings. You’ll want to use marine-grade cleaning products to remove salt deposits and other corrosive substances.

Apply Protective Coatings

Protective coatings are a barrier between your boat’s metal surface and corrosive elements. Anti-corrosion paints, primers, and sealants withstand harsh marine environments, and it helps when you apply these coatings to the hull, deck, and other exposed metal parts. Don’t forget to inspect and reapply coatings as needed, especially in high-wear areas.

Use Sacrificial Anodes

Sacrificial anodes are made of zinc, aluminum, or magnesium. These essential items corrode in the place of the more critical metal components. When attached to your boat’s hull, propellers, and other underwater metal parts, these anodes will help keep your vessel safe by sacrificing themselves. However, inspect and replace your sacrificial anodes frequently to ensure continued protection.

Preventing boat corrosion requires knowledge, vigilance, and proactive maintenance. If you have more questions or want to upgrade your vessel to the latest model, contact 72 Marine Sales. We are in Elberton, Georgia, and proudly serve our patrons from Athens and Augusta!