Essential steps for effective boat repair: from assessment to the shipyard

Boat repairs shouldn’t be left until the last minute. Whether following an intense season of sailing or as part of preventive maintenance, timely intervention can be the difference between a simple upgrade and an expensive breakdown. In this article, we guide you step by step through the boat repair process, from the initial assessment to the final work at the shipyard, including a key point: the application of antifouling paint.

Initial Assessment: Detecting the Invisible

Before repairing any boat, the first essential step is to carry out a detailed inspection. This diagnosis allows you to understand the vessel’s true condition and properly plan the necessary work. It is advisable to enlist the help of a specialised technician or marine surveyor, who can identify structural faults that might escape an untrained eye.

Aspects to be evaluated:

• Hull condition: cracks, osmosis, impacts, deformations, paint loss, or signs of corrosion.
• Mechanical systems: engine performance, oil leaks, compression levels, transmission, and propeller.
  
• Electrical installations: condition of batteries, connections, exposed wiring, lights, and charging systems.
  
• Steering and helm system: play, component wear, and response to movement.
• Deck and joint watertightness: leaks, deteriorated seals, water accumulation.

A good practice is to carry out this inspection with the boat out of the water, at a professional shipyard, to easily access areas hidden below the waterline. This inspection can also be accompanied by photographs and a technical report documenting each issue.

Tip: If you notice a loss of speed, increased fuel consumption, or vibrations, there may be damage to the hull, propeller, or shaft line.

Repair Planning: Materials, Timing, and Budget

Once the scope of the repair has been identified, a clear and detailed action plan should be developed. This phase is crucial to avoid delays and cost overruns, and it allows for efficient coordination of all professionals involved.

This document will include:

• List of tasks to be carried out, ordered by priority.
• Selection of materials (epoxy resins, specific paints, original parts, etc.).
• Estimated time for each work section.
• Approximate cost for each intervention and a contingency allowance.
• Assignment of responsible personnel for each task.

If the repair involves structural areas, technical advice or even a naval engineer should be consulted to ensure the safety and feasibility of the work. It is also advisable to include a legal or regulatory review if structural elements will be modified or new electronic systems installed.

Shipyard Entry: Space, Safety, and Specialized Equipment

The next step is to move the vessel to the shipyard. This professional environment allows work to be carried out with greater comfort, precision, and safety. It also facilitates compliance with environmental and safety regulations when handling materials.

Among the tools available at a well-equipped shipyard are:

• Hydraulic cranes or travel lifts for lifting and launching.
  
• Supports and cradles for secure hull stabilization.
• Paint booths or designated sanding areas with dust extraction.
• Vacuum, ventilation, and compressor systems for pneumatic tools.
• Safe storage of toxic or flammable parts and materials.

A shipyard in Barcelona offers privileged conditions: access to the Mediterranean Sea, mild weather year-round, and a well-established network of marine technicians specialized in repair and refit.

4. Structural and Mechanical Repairs

Con el barco ya asegurado en seco, se procede a realizar las reparaciones necesarias. Estas pueden ir desde el saneamiento de una pequeña grieta hasta la sustitución de componentes completos del sistema de propulsión.

Hull and Structure

• Osmosis repair through drying, cleaning, and epoxy resins.
• Reinforcement of weakened areas with fiberglass or composite materials.
• Replacement or repair of aluminum, laminated wood, or polyester panels.

Propulsion System

• Propeller replacement with more efficient or quieter models.
• Shaft alignment, inspection of propeller shafts, and bearings.
• Cleaning and adjustment of the cooling system, inspection of filters and spark plugs.

Electricity and Electronics

• Replacement of corroded wiring, watertight connectors, and grounding points.
• Installation or upgrade of GPS, AIS, radar, and electrical control panel.
• Inspection of the charging and power distribution system.

Each of these tasks requires technical knowledge and must be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications and current regulations.

5. Application of antifouling paint: protection and efficiency

One of the most important and often underestimated steps is the application of antifouling paint. This paint prevents the accumulation of marine organisms on the hull, such as algae and barnacles, which affect performance and increase fuel consumption.

Application process:

1. Sanding or stripping of the previous antifouling, respecting the structural layers.
2. Pressure washing and complete drying of the hull.
3. Application of sealing primer or epoxy barrier if necessary.
4. Antifouling paint in multiple layers with a brush or spray gun, depending on the type of product.

Types of antifouling:

• Self-polishing: it wears away with the movement of water, ideal for boats that sail frequently.
• Hard: more resistant and durable, recommended for racing yachts and speedboats.
• Eco-friendly: without biocides, suitable for protected marine areas or users who prioritize sustainability.

Important: the choice of antifouling should be adapted to the boat’s use, the sailing area, and the frequency of haul-out. The type of hull material and whether it is combined with other protective layers also plays a role.

6. Final inspection and tuning.

Before returning to the water, a complete inspection is carried out to ensure everything is functioning properly. This is one of the most important phases of the process, as it allows for the detection of any final issues and adjustments to systems before the boat faces actual navigation.

Basic checklist:

• Hull watertightness (visual inspection and pressure test if applicable).
• Dry engine test and verification of starting, exhaust, and noise.
• Check of the electrical system and batteries.
• Visual inspection of the antifouling and check of edges or areas without coverage.
• Onboard safety equipment: check expiration dates of flares, charge of fire extinguishers, condition of bilge pumps, life jackets, and lights.

Additionally, a short test run is recommended, lasting at least one hour, to assess performance, vibrations, fuel consumption, maneuverability, and system effectiveness. This test run can be done with a technician if significant changes have been made.

Repairing on time is sailing with peace of mind.

An effective boat repair doesn’t start with a major breakdown, but with good planning. From the initial assessment to the application of antifouling and fine-tuning, each step is crucial to ensure that your vessel is safe, efficient, and ready to sail the seas.

At Barcelona Nautic Center, we have the facilities and skilled team to assist you throughout this entire process. Get in touch with us to ensure your boat receives the professional care it deserves, just in time for the season.