Protecting Aluminum Boats From Corrosive Saltwater
Aluminum boats are an attractive option because they are lightweight, difficult to damage, and easy to repair. The only issue is that they do not handle the corrosive power of saltwater well. If you take precautions on your boat, you can enjoy many hours in saltwater without worrying about corrosion. At Boat Country, we know a thing or two about boats, and we are excited to share them with you. Check out our location in Everett, Washington, which serves Marysville and Snohomish, Washington.
Effects of Saltwater
The type of corrosion caused by saltwater is galvanic corrosion, which is a consequence of aluminum's electrochemical makeup. Aluminum is a metal that loses atoms or falls apart when in contact with an electrically conductive solution, like saltwater. This galvanic corrosion may appear as pitting, especially when next to another boat in a different metal.
The effects of saltwater are most severe when aluminum boats are in contact with boats made up of other metals. The best way to not worry about corrosion is to use a protective paint coating. Aluminum boats also need a coat of bottom paint regularly applied, whether they stay in saltwater or freshwater.
Sacrificial Anodes
Sacrificial anodes are a popular method to avoid corrosion. These anodes are attached to the aluminum boats and erode instead of the aluminum. There is no recommended amount of sacrificial anodes that you need on a vessel. You can see that you have the right amount if the zinc anodes are halfway gone by the end of the boating season.
Aluminum Fuel Tanks
Even non-aluminum boats might have an aluminum fuel tank, which can react poorly to saltwater. Remain watchful of your fuel tank and regularly inspect it for issues. Painting over fuel tanks is not recommended, so you should monitor the fuel tank in case of moisture damage from saltwater.
Other Tips to Prevent Corrosion
As a rule, you should try to avoid mixing metals of different galvanic properties. Use bolts that are less active than the fittings because you do not want to corrode away small bolts. Repair chips and scratches in the paint that expose the metal below as soon as possible and always use paint designed especially for aluminum boats. However, never paint over sacrificial anodes because you will prevent them from doing their job. Properly fasten all of the anodes to make sure they are in contact with the aluminum they are protecting.
Learning methods to protect your aluminum boat in saltwater will save you a lot of money over time. Visit us at Boat Country in Everett, Washington, and our team will offer you the latest information and the best deals around. We welcome customers from Snohomish and Marysville, Washington.