Tiara Yachts Tiara 43, Owner'S Manual

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Maintenance Guides Appendix C
C-1
Maintenance Guides
As the world’s premier gel coat supplier, Polynt Composites has provided this brochure as a
guide to properly maintain and care for your gel coat surface.
Owner’s Guide:
Care & Upkeep of Fiberglass Products
Gel Coats provide a protective layer against
weathering on a surface. Over time, exposure to
sunlight, water, dust and chemicals cause wear
and tear on the gel coat surface. This results
in chalking, discoloration, yellowing or loss of
gloss. By following simple, regular maintenance
procedures, you can minimize these effects.
Basic Maintenance
When not in use, keep the gel coat surface out of the sun
or covered with a canvas tarp. Do not use plastic sheeting
or other non-porous materials as they trap moisture
between the cover and the surface, causing damage to
the gel coat.
For best results, use a cleaner recommended for use
with fiberglass and follow label instructions. Alternatively,
you can wash the surface with a mild detergent, such as
dishwashing soap.
DO NOT use automatic dishwasher detergent, abrasive
cleaners, bleach, strong acids or bases (i.e. TSP or
ammonia). Only use pH neutral cleaners.
Wax at least twice a year to restore gloss and protect the
finish. Only use a wax that is recommended for gel coat
surfaces and follow instructions carefully. NEVER wax a
gel coat surface in direct sunlight.
Corrective Procedures*
Chalking
A fine rubbing compound as well as a mild detergent
will reduce the weathering and chalking accumulated
on the surface. Use only a fine grit compound and
follow label directions carefully. DO NOT apply rubbing
compound in direct sunlight. For best results, wax after
applying compound. When applying wax, remove excess
compound and apply a thin layer of wax using a clean
cloth. It is recommended to use a wax designed for
fiberglass.
Scratches, Nicks and Stains
Most scratches and nicks can be removed by using a
rubbing compound followed by waxing as described
above. Deep marks or gouges should be professionally
repaired.
Most stains can be removed by washing with mild
detergent. For stubborn stains, use a fine abrasive
household cleanser designed for fiberglass products,
followed by waxing to restore its original luster.
Non-water soluble stains such as grease and oil, rubber
heel marks, etc., can be removed by using a solvent such
as acetone, rubbing alcohol, toluene or xylene, followed
by a mild detergent. If these solvents are not effective, try
a rubbing compound or fine sanding followed by a rubbing
compound and then waxing.
If you have questions, consult your local dealer.
*Always try a test spot first
Polynt Composites USA
99 E. Cottage Ave
Carpentersville, IL 60110
800-322-8103