Marine: Boating, Sailing, PWC, GPS and Navigation - Removing barnacles

Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.



PDA

View Full Version : Removing barnacles

TM222
08-05-05, 11:07 PM
I have a small craft that was left in the water. It was removed and it's covered with barnacles. The main part of the barnacles was scraped off. ALl that remains is a thin layer of barnacle skins. It's a fiberglass boat.

I was considering using some kind of acid to make getting this off easier. Can anyone tell me what might remove it short of scraping and damaging the gel coat? It's not painted.

thezster
08-12-05, 09:40 AM
Obviously you live near salt water.... If it was me... I'd call a local marine supply house for suggestions...

Any other reason for living on fresh water????
papasmurf
08-12-05, 05:09 PM
Leaving a fiberglass boat in the water for en extended period of time can cause blistering of the gelcoat. It is best to have the bottom painted. Star Brite makes a product just for removing barnacles. Never used it but there should be other products at most marinas or marine supply stores in your area.

Ed Imeduc
08-12-05, 06:43 PM
Go for the scraping and then some sanding. Dont worry about the gel coat. When done give it a good 2 coats of a good bottom paint. Check on the paint you use some bottom paints have to go into the water right away. You dont get blisters on the boat from in the water. They come from a osmosis build up in the lay up of the glass when the boat is made. Some get it and some dont.
Might see what Defender.com has

ED ;)