Can I use Sure Step on my smooth deck?

Skipper April 8, 2005 Ask The Skipper

Bryan Cantwell asked:

I’m not clear on the use of the correct product. After cleaning the deck with Boat Clean & Boat Scrub I then use the Sure Step on the non-skid areas of the deck. We now have a clean deck. What polishing product do you recommend for the smooth areas that will seal it and also not be slippery?

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks. Click on the hyperlink to get more information about the selected product.

You can also use Sure Step on the smooth parts of your deck. These areas will not be non-skid but much less slippery than if you used wax or polish. You will still get UV protection and they will be sealed against water and stain penetration and be easy to keep clean. For regular maintenance, wash your decks as needed with a solution of 1 part Boat Clean Plus to 15 or 20 parts water, or just rinse with a garden hose and wipe dry with a Marine Chamois

Harry Jansen asked:

The deck of my boat has non-skid patterns in the smooth part of the deck. Is it OK to use Sure Step on the smooth parts as well as the textured parts? Will Sure Step protect and shine the smooth parts? Will it increase traction? Is there a better product for use on the smooth parts?

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks. Click on the hyperlink to get more information about the selected product.

Sure Step was especially formulated to seal the pores in the non-skid areas and give it a UV protected shine to make it easier to keep clean, without making the decks slippery to boaters in bare feet or wearing deck shoes. .

Many boaters have reported success with Sure Step on the smooth surfaces, especially on sailboats where the non-skid patterns may not be adequate and sailors must walk on the smooth parts as well. This is especially important when the decks are wet and normally become slippery. Sure Step contains Skid-X which is moisture sensitive and will increase traction when the decks are wet.

You will definitely get better traction on smooth surfaces, either gelcoat or painted, with Sure Step than with other wax or polishes, but not as much as on non skid patterns.

Sure Step is now becoming very popular with owners of High Performance, Offshore Boats. The decks are entirely smooth to eliminate wind resistance for maximum speed and there are no rails to provide security. If someone has to go forward to help with docking or for any other reason, it can be very dangerous. Sure Step will at least provide better traction and reduce slipping. Since it is smooth and slick, except when you step on it, Sure Step still provides all the protection and properties of other polishes or waxes. It will last as long as wax, it won’t yellow, it seals the surface against water and stain penetration, it has good UV protection, good shine, etc.

Thanks for your question.
Captain Aurora