How to Remove Barnacles from Your Boat

How to Remove Barnacles from Your Boat. Barnacles are a common nuisance for boat owners, as they adhere to the hull and cause drag, which affects fuel efficiency and performance. Follow these steps to safely and effectively remove barnacles from your boat.

Steps for Removing Barnacles

1. Remove the Boat from the Water

• Take the boat out of the water and place it on a secure, stable surface.
• If you have proper diving equipment, barnacles can also be removed while the boat remains moored.

2. Scrub Gently with a Stainless Steel Scrubber

• Use a handheld stainless steel scrubber to gently scrub the hull.
• Focus on areas where barnacles are less adhered until the hull becomes visible.

3. Use a Plastic Putty Knife for Larger Barnacles

• Start with a plastic putty knife to avoid damaging the boat’s hull.
• Scrape gently to dislodge larger barnacles.
• If necessary, switch to a dull-edged metal knife, but use caution to avoid gouging the hull.

4. Remove Remaining Barnacles

• Use a stainless steel scrubber again to address any remnants that the scraper could not remove.

5. Pressure Wash Large Barnacle Colonies

• Invest in a pressure washer for widespread barnacle infestations.
• Allow the boat to dry for a few weeks if possible before pressure washing.
• Spray parallel to the hull to get underneath the edges of the barnacles and dislodge them without damaging the boat.

6. Address Barnacle Remnants with Acid

• Apply a small amount of hydrochloric acid to any remaining barnacle plates.
• Scrape off the remnants with your plastic or dull-edged metal knife.
• After using acid, apply a lime remover to neutralize residue and further clean the hull.

7. Thoroughly Wash the Hull

• Rinse the hull with water and scrub off any remaining debris or chemical residue.
• Ensure the boat is completely clean and dry.

8. Apply a Slick Coating

• Use a hull-slickening product to make it harder for barnacles to adhere in the future.
• This protective measure will make subsequent cleanings much easier.

Tips for Effective Barnacle Removal

• Wear Protective Gear: Use gloves and eye protection, especially when handling hydrochloric acid or pressure washing.
• Prepare for Repainting: Pressure washing may remove some of the boat’s paint, so be ready to repaint the hull if necessary.
• Work in Small Sections: Focus on manageable patches to avoid missing any areas.

Warnings

• Avoid Damage to the Hull: Always start with softer tools (plastic scrapers) before moving to harsher options like metal scrapers or high-pressure washing.
• Don’t Use Freshwater Alone: Freshwater doesn’t kill barnacles; mechanical removal is required.
• Limit Acid Use: Use hydrochloric acid sparingly and only on stubborn barnacle remnants to protect the hull’s integrity.

By following these steps, you can effectively remove barnacles while preserving the condition of your boat’s hull.