Tips for Removing Barnacles from a Boat | Scout Boats
Barnacles are stubborn sea creatures that stick onto boat hulls and can cause drag, reduce fuel efficiency, and potentially even damage your boat, which is why they are important to remove when possible. In this blog, we will look at tips for removing barnacles from a boat to keep your boat’s hull in amazing condition for years to come.
Are Barnacles Alive?
Barnacles are, in fact, alive and are a type of marine crustacean. They survive by attaching themselves to lots of different surfaces in the water, from boat hulls to docks, rocks, and more. Once attached, they build a protective shell around themselves, giving them a rough, sharp surface.
Why Remove Barnacles?
Unfortunately, barnacles can cause a lot of problems for owners of boats. Below, we list just a couple:
- Drag and Reduced Speed: When your hull has many barnacles attached, there will be a drag in the water as you move, making you slower and wasting fuel.
- Damage to the Hull: After a while, these little creatures destroy the surface of the hull.
- Aesthetics: Barnacles just don’t look good when they’re stuck to the side of your boat.
Removing Barnacles: Tips and Techniques
Use a Barnacle Remover
There are lots of different barnacle removers you can buy, which are designed to dissolve the barnacle’s shell so they can be easily removed. Simply purchase one and follow the directions.
Scraping
If you want to keep chemicals away from your boat, another option is to simply scrape them off. You can do so by using a plastic or wooden scraper. Metal may damage your hull and should be avoided.
Power Washing
A high-pressure power washer is another way to go, using simply water. If the barnacles haven’t been there for a long time, this might be the perfect option for you. Be careful not to remove the hull’s gel coating, however.
How to Avoid Barnacles in the First Place
Prevention is better than cure. Instead of dealing with barnacles once they have attached to your boat, you can start by making it difficult for them to attach in the first place. You can do this by regularly inspecting the hull and removing them as soon as they appear, so you don’t have to invest in expensive solutions. Or you can use an anti-fouling paint. This is a special paint that contains chemicals that stop the barnacles from attaching. This is a great option if you notice you are getting a lot of them, and it’s hard to stay on top of.
Build Your Scout Boat Today
When you follow this guide, you can stay on top of the barnacles that may attach to your boat. This is important for keeping it in the best condition possible so your boat lasts for years to come and gives you the best performance possible. If you’re looking for a luxury boat, look no further than Scouts Boats. At Scout Boats, our mission is to craft exceptional luxury models ranging from 17′ to 53′. Each of our vessels is meticulously designed to incorporate enduring innovations, cutting-edge technology, and trendsetting features that define the pinnacle of boating excellence. Build your Scout Boat today.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always follow safe and responsible boating practices, and use environmentally friendly barnacle removal products.
Source: https://scoutboats.com/blog/tips-for-removing-barnacles-from-a-boat/
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