boatbuilders in Blandford Forum (8)

Boats undergo sustained weathering. They are used in all conditions and constantly in contact with water.

Boats also feature a range of mechanical components that must be kept in good working order for the boat to keep running.

Some common boat maintenance that will help to keep your boat in ship shape condition include:

• Washing and waxing

• Checking metal parts for corrosion

• Regular oil changes

• Propellor maintenance

• Use specialist marine fuel

• Remove battery when not in use for prolonged time

• Check all battery connection regularly

This will depend on the type of boat, the material it’s made from, its use, and how well it’s maintained.

Boats can last anywhere from 5 – 50 years. Some larger, high-quality boats can last over 100 years when well maintained.

This depends on the type of boat engine. Gasoline marine engines last an average of 1,500 hours.

Diesel marine engines, on the other hand, have a life expectancy of around 5,000 hours.

Boats, like cars and any other machines with mechanical parts will inevitably need some repair work during their lifetime.

Some of the most common boat repairs to expect are:

• Replacing a damaged alternator belt

• Fixing electronic issues

• Bleeding a fuel system

• Unblocking the sanitation unit head

• Changing the engine’s raw water pump

• Replacing a battery

You can scroll up to see boat mechanics in Blandford Forum. This way you can find quality boat mechanics located close to you.

Yes. Fortunately, boat hole repair is extremely common and a relatively simple task to complete.

Once the area around the hole has been cleaned and is free from dirt and debris, cut a piece of fibreglass cloth that is slightly bigger than the hole.

Next, generously apply fibreglass resin to the fibreglass cloth and place it over the hole. Smooth the cloth with a brush or roller, ensuring that all air bubbles are removed.

Let the resin cure for 24 hours. Once set, the area can be sanded down and repainted. It will now be ready for use.

This depends on the size of the boat, the materials you use, and whether you employ a tradesperson to complete the task.

Yes. Fortunately, fibreglass is one of the most easily repaired boat materials.

Follow the steps mentioned above and your fibreglass boat will be back on the water in just a day or two.

Yes. Cracks in a boat’s fibreglass hull can be repaired in a similar way to holes.

Fill the crack with fibreglass resin and allow to set. Once set, sand down the area and re-paint and your boat’s hull will be as good as new.