waxing our new R27

[CatNap]

As I am sure you know, there is a lot of opinion out there on waxing vs polymer sealing vs ceramic coating. So my question is this:
For a new boat is there some science behind which one to choose or is it simply a question of how long I want the treatment to last?

I have also heard for some reputable sources that paste wax has a negative effect on the hydrophobic properties of the gelcoat, but I have trouble finding any science behind this.

Finally, I am on the assumption that I should get a coat of wax or other treatment on a new boat fairly quickly, can you confirm this approach

I appreciate your help in clarifying this. I want to make a good start taking care of our new boat
Marc

 

[knotflying]

You will get many answers and different product recommendations. Ceramic coating is durable and long lasting with a rather detailed and critical application process. It is quite durable and can last a while with minimum maintenance. For waxing I use Collinite products https://www.collinite.com/product-category/marine/. The bottle of the metal wax lasts for ever and is wonderful. I did my boat twice per year and many people commented on how well it looked after ten years. Figure three days to wash, apply cleaner or compound and wax. With a new boat you will most likely not need to compound so figure two days. It is a labor of love. With help you can do it in one day. Funny how many people will want to ride on the boat, but disappear when it is time to wash and wax. :lol:

 

[GaylesFaerie]

When I waxed my sailboats I also used Collinite. It was excellent and long lasting. I was also much younger, stronger and endurant (is that a word?) to do the work. For my tug which has so many small and curvy surfaces I just couldn't bear to try and wax it. Waxing is easy for large relatively flat surfaces but for all the little stuff, I just don't have the patience.

Last season I went over the whole boat with ceramic. Compounded the hull first then applied ceramic. It held up well. This season I'll give it a good wash and apply ceramic again.

For all the topside surfaces I compounded with a small buffer and then applied ceramic. Midway through the season I gave the boat a good wash and applied ceramic again. It still looks fantastic. I'll just keep repeating the wash and ceramic cycles this season without the compounding. The ceramic I use is NexGen. It is literally spray on, wipe off. Easy peasy.

As Knotflying mentioned, the preferred surface treatment is going to vary by person based on time, effort, money and looks. Personally, I don't need a mirror finish. As long as it is clean, shines, sheds water, and doesn't involve hours of waxing, I'm good.

HTH, Gary

 

[Catch22]

Previous owners of my 21 EC used Collonite, so I continued. I was totally happy....minimal oxidation on dark blue hull. Boat was in water in slip 5 + months a year. When pulled in the fall, I used the Collonite 920 cleaner wax, then 2 coats of their 885 FleetWax paste wax. Collonite metal wax and Never Dull cotton wadding for polishing take care of shiny stuff..
My R23 continues to get the same treatment. I am going to try Meguires auto detailer for on the water fresh ups this year.
Collonite is a premium old school boat and aviation wax. I am sure newer ceramic coatings have their advantages that others will recommend here.

 

[tranmkp]

Island Girl Products

Not used them on the Ranger - used them on my Beneteau’s

Read the Dr’s explanation on the web site about gel coat porosity

It is really quite amazing - it’s work in the beginning but becomes much easier over time