Polished aluminum boats can look very nice. Over time, though, the aluminum can lose its shine. Still, there is a way to get it back. Cleaned the right way, your boat can be as good as new. If you are shopping for an aluminum boat, come to White's Marine Center in Pittsburg, Missouri to see our beautiful boats. We also serve Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri.

Choose the Right Time

On a hot day, an aluminum boat can be so hot that you can't touch it. In this condition, it may be impossible to handle the boat. Just like a car sitting in the hot sun, an aluminum boat can heat up very quickly when exposed to sunlight. 

Therefore, you want to choose a day to clean the boat when it isn't so hot outside especially if there isn't shade. If the only time you have available to clean your aluminum boat is on a hot day, cover the boat with a tarp or some towels to protect it from the sun's rays before cleaning it.

Clean Off Debris

Before cleaning, you want to remove and debris or grease that has built upon it. Once you have removed the grime, you can add your cleaner to the boat. This will make it easier to clean the boat and give the aluminum a clearer finish.

Use an Aluminum Boat Cleaner

When cleaning your aluminum boat, you need to polish it so it can be in a protected state. Although soap and water are adequate for surface cleaning, it isn't going to restore the luster of the aluminum nor offer a coat of protection to the boat.

A low-micron cleaner is going to both brighten and protect it. You will also get a nice shine from it. This is especially true for a pontoon boat which usually has a lot of aluminum.

Properties of Aluminum

Due to its exposure to the air, aluminum has a tendency to develop an oxidized coat. In order to break through this coating, you need a cleaner that is specifically made for aluminum. 

Even if you keep the boat in mint condition, you still will have to follow a cleaning process that is specific to the properties of aluminum. Although the aluminum is anti-corrosive, it can lose its shine if you don't polish it. With the right cleaning products, you can keep your boat shiny and beautiful.

Cleaning your aluminum boat involves a few things. You want to select a day that is comfortable. Clear off any debris before you start cleaning. Use a cleaner specifically made for aluminum boats. Understand the properties of aluminum. Here at White's Marine Center in Pittsburg, Missouri, you can take a look at our boats. The center also serves Kansas City and Springfield, Missouri.