Articles

If your boat’s once-glossy finish is starting to look chalky, dull, or faded, now’s the time to act. Catching oxidation early—before it penetrates deep into the gelcoat—can save you hours of restoration work, protect your boat’s value, and restore that like-new shine in a single afternoon.

Let’s break down exactly how gelcoat fades, how to catch it early, and how to bring it back fast—before it reaches the point of no return.

If you care about keeping your boat in top condition, you already know that regular washing is essential. But what you may not know is that the type of soap you use can either protect or compromise your boat’s finish—especially if it has been waxed or ceramic-coated. Using the wrong soap at the wrong time can strip protective layers, dull your gelcoat, or dry out sensitive surfaces like marine vinyl.

Discover why water spot removers must be neutralized and followed with protection—and why combining them with SiO₂ ceramic sealants is a misleading marketing myth.

Not all oxidation requires wet-sanding. Learn the science behind boat oxidation removal and why a professional-grade one-step compound can often restore your gelcoat without aggressive methods.

When it comes to boat detailing, choosing the right polishing pad can make the difference between a mirror-like shine and a lackluster finish. Whether you're correcting heavy oxidation, restoring faded gelcoat, or refining a high-gloss finish, matching your pad to the surface and job type is essential.

Here’s a breakdown of the best types of polishing pads — and when to use them — for different surfaces, finishes, and levels of oxidation.