DIY How to polish an Aluminum Pontoon Boat
Polishing aluminum pontoons can significantly enhance the look of your boat, making it look newer and well-maintained. Beyond aesthetics, polishing can also help protect the metal from corrosion and pitting caused by exposure to water and environmental elements. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of polishing aluminum pontoons, including the tools, materials, techniques, and costs involved.
Why Polish Aluminum Pontoons?
- Aesthetics: Polished pontoons give your boat a shiny, clean look.
- Protection: Regular polishing helps protect the aluminum from oxidation and corrosion.
- Maintenance: Polishing can remove minor scratches and blemishes, maintaining the boat’s value.
Tools and Materials Needed
Tools
- Orbital polisher or buffer
- Sandpaper (various grits, from 400 to 1500)
- Polishing pads (wool and foam)
- Microfiber cloths
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, respirator mask)
Materials
- Aluminum cleaner or degreaser
- Aluminum polish
- Aluminum protectant or sealer
- Water and soap (for cleaning)
- Masking tape (to protect non-aluminum areas)
Estimated Costs
- Orbital polisher or buffer: $50-$200
- Sandpaper: $10-$20 for assorted pack
- Polishing pads: $10-$30
- Microfiber cloths: $10-$20
- Aluminum cleaner or degreaser: $10-$20
- Aluminum polish: $15-$30
- Aluminum protectant or sealer: $20-$40
- Safety gear: $20-$50
Total Estimated Cost
- DIY Polishing: $150-$400
- Professional Service: $300-$1,000+
Step-by-Step Guide to Polishing Aluminum Pontoons
1. Preparation
A. Clean the Pontoons
- Wash Thoroughly: Clean the pontoons with soap and water to remove dirt, grime, and marine growth.
- Degrease: Use an aluminum cleaner or degreaser to remove any oil or grease. Rinse thoroughly and let dry.
B. Protect Non-Aluminum Areas
- Masking Tape: Use masking tape to cover areas that you don’t want to polish, such as decals, painted sections, and fittings.
2. Sanding
A. Initial Sanding
- 400 Grit Sandpaper: Start with 400-grit sandpaper to remove heavy oxidation and surface imperfections. Sand in a circular motion for even results.
- Water: Wet the sandpaper and the pontoon surface to reduce dust and friction.
B. Progressive Sanding
- 600-800 Grit Sandpaper: Move to 600 and then 800-grit sandpaper to smooth out the surface further.
- 1200-1500 Grit Sandpaper: Finish with 1200 and then 1500-grit sandpaper for a smooth, pre-polish finish.
3. Polishing
A. Apply Aluminum Polish
- Polishing Pad: Attach a wool or foam polishing pad to your orbital polisher.
- Polish: Apply a small amount of aluminum polish to the pad or directly to the pontoon.
- Polish in Sections: Work in small sections to ensure even coverage. Move the polisher in a circular motion, overlapping each pass.
B. Buffing
- High-Speed Buffer: If available, use a high-speed buffer to bring out the shine. Keep the buffer moving to avoid overheating the aluminum.
- Microfiber Cloth: Use a microfiber cloth to wipe away excess polish and reveal a brilliant shine.
4. Protection
A. Apply Aluminum Protectant or Sealer
- Protectant: Apply an aluminum protectant or sealer to the polished surface. This helps maintain the shine and protect against future oxidation.
- Buff Again: Use a clean polishing pad or microfiber cloth to buff the protectant into the aluminum.
5. Final Inspection and Cleanup
A. Inspect the Pontoons
- Shine Check: Ensure all areas are evenly polished and free from streaks or residue.
- Touch-Up: Touch up any missed spots or areas that need additional polishing.
B. Cleanup
- Remove Tape: Carefully remove the masking tape from protected areas.
- Clean Tools: Clean your tools and store them properly for future use.
Maintenance Tips
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your pontoons regularly to maintain the polish.
- Reapply Protectant: Apply aluminum protectant every few months to keep the pontoons shiny and protected.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your boat out of direct sunlight and harsh weather to preserve the polished finish.
Conclusion
Polishing aluminum pontoons is a rewarding DIY project that can significantly enhance the appearance and longevity of your boat. By following this comprehensive guide, you can achieve professional-looking results at a fraction of the cost. Whether you’re polishing for the first time or maintaining a previous polish, these steps will help you keep your pontoon boat looking its best. Happy boating and enjoy the gleaming results!
Happy Boating!
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Read How to Paint a Pontoon Boat? until we meet in the next article.
