Signs of Damage on Your Boat

12/8/2021 (Permalink)

To keep your boat healthy and running smoothly, boat maintenance is an essential part of being a boat owner.

While there are many joys that come with owning a boat and taking it out on the water, there is also time and energy required to inspect, upkeep, and maintain your boat. Under normal use, and depending on the water and weather conditions, all boats will begin to show wear and tear damage. To keep your boat healthy and running smoothly, boat maintenance is an essential part of being a boat owner.

Although boats are obviously meant to be in the water, but you cannot underestimate the potential damage that water and moisture may have on your boat. With a little bit of knowledge and practice, boat maintenance can become easy. The first step is knowing what telltale signs of water damage to look for on your boat. Here are some of the most identifiable signs of boat damage:

Steering Issues

If your boat is not steering like normal, it is likely a larger issue that you need to investigate. Whether you are just experiencing more resistance than normal or you are unable to steer altogether, this can point to many different issues such as a leak in the hydraulic fuel lines,

a mechanical failure, corrosion on the steering cables, or grease entering the support tubes. No matter the culprit, a steering issue is a sign of damage you need to inspect.

Leaks or Large Amounts of Water in the Hull

While it is normal for your boat to hold some water, large amounts of splashing water or leaks, dents, or corrosion can all be a sign of water damage. One of the biggest fears for a boat owner is a crack in the hull, and depending on the severity, it can sink your boat. This damage can likely come from rocks or other debris underwater. At the first sight of a leak or water damage, it is important to address the cause immediately.

Sputtering or a Power Outage

Imagine the disappointment of attempting to accelerate your boat and you are met with your power sputtering. While this may just happen when your boat runs out of gas, if your gas gauge is full and your power sputters or shuts off completely, it is likely a major issue. Whether you need to replace your filters, change your spark plugs, or address an electrical issue, it is time for a boat repair.

Your Boat Won’t Start

The only thing more disappointing than a power sputter is your boat not starting all together. If you have enough fuel, checked the battery, and followed the proper starting sequence, a mechanic will likely need to check your boat for repair.

Watching your boat’s interior for water damage is essential to making sure your boat’s life is extended as long as possible. At SERVPRO of North Palm Beach County, we know all about boat water damage. Contact our water damage restoration team today to learn more!