Deck cleaning...

[MongoLikesCandy]

I need to clean the decks and hull to remove a few years worth of mould and grime, will I cause myself problems if I use a pressure washer and should I stick with the broom and bucket method? Finally can anyone recommend a cleaning product?

 

[Pete7]

Assuming the decks are GRP then just go for it with the pressure wash and a soft scrubbing brush together. You could also use TFR (Traffic film remover) from a decent auto factors. Used it diluted on the rib quite often and neat for any stubborn stains on the tubes. Wear gloves if using it neat and old clothes.

Pete

 

[Deleted member 36384]

I need to clean the decks and hull to remove a few years worth of mould and grime, will I cause myself problems if I use a pressure washer and should I stick with the broom and bucket method? Finally can anyone recommend a cleaning product?

Me and the boy used washing up liquid, warm water and nylon head scrubbing brushes to remove dirt and mould from GRP / Treadmaster. Just squooshed the washing up liquid neat over the decks. Cleaned up well but had sore back afterwards.

 

[Ex-SolentBoy]

Skippers choice sloshed on and left overnight will make the job much easier. Not sure what colour your hull is, but be careful of stuff like TFR if it is dark blue.

 

[saltwater_gypsy]

Screwfix do a very powerful surface cleaner here. I used it and was impressed.
http://www.screwfix.com/prods/90657...rface-Cleaners/Swarfega-High-Active-Detergent

They also stock other surface cleaners which yopu may prefer.

 

[rafiki_]

I used my Karcher last winter, and will do the same this time. Works a treat, even on the teak, although lots of people say that you should not use on teak. On the GRP and canopy the pressure washer does a great job.

I need to clean the decks and hull to remove a few years worth of mould and grime, will I cause myself problems if I use a pressure washer and should I stick with the broom and bucket method? Finally can anyone recommend a cleaning product?

 

[rob2]

The pressure washer can be used at low pressure with the revolving brush attachment and detergent. In fact, you have to use low pressure to pick up the detergent. So you can give the whole boat a gently, sudsy soak and brush-up before switching to high pressure rinse off. I usually work around with a soft broom several times before rinsing. It will clean canopies, but will happily break fibres and stitching if used at too close range. On teak it will give incredible results, but undercuts the grain fibres and in time will rip through the wood, so not something to be repeated!

For a once only clean up, the pressure washer is the most useful tool ever invented - but its a bit aggresive if unchecked for routine maintenance of softer materials.

Rob.

 

[DRM MARINE VALETING]

Do not use TFR neat as it can leave gel coat streaky and dull, I would not even use it diluted on a yacht. Always pre-soak decks with plain water for at least half an hour before scrubbing as this can make life easier. I would never use a pressure washer on teak, and when I have to use one on non-slip areas, great care has to be taken around chain plates, hatches and deck fittings.



drmvaletingservices@o2.co.uk