Boat Problem & Solution Guides: Fix Common Marine Issues

Diagnose and Fix Marine Surface Problems

Every boat problem has a specific cause and a specific fix. Using the wrong approach wastes effort and can make the issue worse. These guides diagnose each problem, explain why it happened, and walk through the correct treatment for the affected surface.

Staining and Residue

Adhesive residue, waterline stains, and surface contaminants each require different removal techniques. Learn how to remove sticky residue from fiberglass without damaging gelcoat, or stop water spots on gelcoat before they etch the surface.

Salt and Biological Growth

Salt crystallizes on every surface and accelerates corrosion, while algae and mildew colonize any area that stays damp. Our guide to removing salt buildup and algae covers gelcoat surfaces, and cleaning salt from painted boats addresses painted hulls specifically.

Fender and Accessory Problems

Fenders accumulate dock grime and develop pink bacterial stains that resist normal washing. See our guide on removing fender grime and pink stains for the correct treatment approach.

Material-Specific Failures

RIB tubes crack under UV when unprotected — learn how to prevent tube cracking. Aluminum hulls develop white oxidation that differs from gelcoat degradation — see our aluminum oxidation removal guide for the right technique.