Yearly Topsides Maintenance
The gelcoat on Plume’s topsides was originally navy blue with a cream stripe. Unfortunately, with zero gelcoat maintenance during several years, the navy blue eventually started to show signs of oxidation. Hence we decided to get the topsides repainted by a boat yard. We reversed the colors, hoping that a light color will last longer and generate less heat inside the boat (both turned-out to be correct). The boat yard used a linear polyurethane (AWLGRIP). Here is how we maintain it once a year.
Step 1: Wash
Duration: 1/2 hour per side
Material
- AWLGRIP Awlwash: 1 ounce (30 ml) of Awlwash per each gallon (3.785 liters) of waters
- Soft (non abrasive) sponge
- Chamois (or soft cotton towel)
Application
- Rinse the surface thoroughly prior to washing.
- Wash surface while still wet using a soft sponge. Do not allow Awlwash to dry on the surface prior to rinsing. Wash small sections of large surfaces to insure the surface stays wet. Rinse after washing.
- Wipe with chamois to prevent water spots.
Step 2: Protect
Duration: 2 hour per side
Material
- AWLGRIP Awlcare (protective polymer sealer)
- 100% cotton applicator or cloth
Application
- Shake Awlcare well and apply with a 100% cotton applicator or cloth (can be applied in sun or shade and to large areas before removing).
- Wipe off haze with a clean cotton cloth.