How to Prevent Corrosion and Keep Your Ship’s Hull in Good Condition

Most people who look for ship repair in San Diego do so only after their engine, electrics, or other internal systems have begun to show signs of failure. While these components are a crucial part of any vessel, comprehensive ship repair and maintenance must also include the ship’s hull.

After all, not even the best ship engine maintenance checklist in the world will keep the vessel afloat if its hull has corroded or been damaged to the point where it can no longer keep water out.

In the following article, we’ll give you a hull maintenance checklist that will greatly extend the life of your vessel. We’ll also help you choose a reputable vessel repair company that complies with all the relevant safety standards. Keep reading to learn more.

How do I prevent corrosion on my ship?

Corrosion can destroy tanks, cause the vessel’s body to deteriorate, and a variety of other problems. As with fixing engine malfunctions while at sea, the best way to solve the problem is to prevent it from the get go by making sure everything is in good condition before setting sail.

Here are some things you can do to prevent and control ship corrosion:

  • Apply regular coatings to parts that are at risk of corrosion, such as the hull and the deck. The hull can be protected by applying a two-part coal-tar epoxy and a vinyl tar coat. The deck can simply be repainted, but for extra protection you should apply an alkyd and chlorinated rubber coating. Always check to make sure your tanks are free of corrosion.
  • Use stainless steel or plastic when building and replacing parts, as these materials are more resistant to corrosion. Certain titanium and nickel alloys can also be used.
  • Protect electrical circuits by placing waterproof insulation around cable connectors. In cases of heavy corrosion damage, it’s best to have your vessel looked at by a trusted ship repair service.

In addition to having all the right tools and expertise, the pros can identify other telltale signs of faulty ship machinery you may not have noticed, such as the signs of a malfunctioning ship engine.

How do I keep my vessel's hull in good shape?

Damaged or malfunctioning ships can sink and take their passengers down with them in a matter of minutes. Making sure that all the main components are in good working condition before setting out is absolutely vital to both your and your ship’s well-being.

This goes doubly for the vessel’s hull, as a compromised hull can lead to uncontrollable water ingress that causes the ship to sink before help can arrive. Fortunately, by observing a simple maintenance checklist, you’ll be able to avoid most problems and increase the life of your hull.

Monthly hull maintenance routine includes:

  • Inspecting the hull, rudder, and keel damage and arranging for any needed repairs immediately.
  • Checking the condition of the teak and renewing it if necessary.

Annual hull checks include:

  • Certain types of ships (such as yachts) need to be hauled out annually for zinc replacement, anti-fouling, and (if necessary) repainting. This is typically done during winter.

Who provides the most dependable ship repair in San Diego?

No matter how carefully you maintain your vessel, it will eventually require major repairs that can only be provided by a trusted repair service. Here at PCE, we can proudly say we’ve been San Diego’s top ship maintenance and repair company for more than four decades (and counting).

As the US Navy’s top preferred partner, we’re uniquely qualified to deal with all your ship-related needs. Give us a call today or visit us at our premises near the South Chollas Valley. We look forward to serving you.