When you’re out on the water, it can be easy to forget that your boat requires constant care and attention if you plan to keep it around. Over time, it’s often difficult to maintain your boat’s upholstery, and without proper care and maintenance, it will have to be restored and/or replaced at some point. Boat interiors are severely influenced by weather, but with seasonal detailing, owners can prolong the beauty and extend the life of their boats.
Regular maintenance is all about consistency and if done correctly, is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to enhance the life of pontoon or deck boats. Although the interior can fade from continuous exposure to the sun or split apart at the seams from regular wear and tear, the following techniques will help increase your boat’s resale value and keep it looking shiny and new by preventing damage and protecting against UV and polluting elements present in the marine environment.
Leather
Leather requires frequent reconditioning to replace the natural lubricants that are lost over time. Reconditioning will protect leather from excessive dryness and cracking or moisture that may cause it to swell or decay. Unprotected leather is susceptible to spotting from water, oils and other liquids, making it vital for new boat seats to be treated immediately to prevent permanent stains. For best protection, avoid using too much oil or wax, as it can clog pores and cause leather to lose its ability to let air in and moisture out. Instead, wash gently using a homemade solution of 10 parts water to one part ivory liquid dish soap to condition and remove stains from seats.
Vinyl
Vinyl seats and covers are susceptible to the fading, drying and cracking from the sun along with normal wear and tear. When ignored, water and moisture can seep into the area, resulting in a damp and odorous mess. Cleaning vinyl with fresh water and eco-friendly vinyl cleaner will help areas from dirt and grime build up, which easily retain moisture and eventually cause the material to deteriorate.
Carpeting
Floors accumulate everything from dust, to debris, allergens and even harmful odors. Carpeted areas should be steam cleaned to prevent mold from growing, since it cannot survive high temperatures.
When boats start to experience wear and tear, repairing the damaged area can save money and restore some of the beauty lost over time. Furthermore, using a professional detailing service for repairs that are past do-it-yourself methods will protect the environment and help achieve a uniform look throughout a boat. Rather than replacing a product, professional repair and restoration services can repair rips, tears, discoloration and much more.
