Restoring and Protecting Rub Rail

Skipper November 17, 2009 Ask The Skipper

David McPhail asked:

I have a 36 foot Regal powerboat that has a wide black hard rubber strip covered on the outside with a stainless strip and acts as the rub rail for the boat. It is located where the hull and deck come together to cover the joining points.

This black rubber has turned very light in color… almost grayish and does not add to the look of a clean well cared for boat.

Do you have a product to clean this hard black rubber and then a product that can be used to protect the black from fading and discoloring in the future…

Answer:

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

Boat Scrub will clean and restore the rubber Rub Rail. It will also polish and brighten the stainless steel strip. Use it full strength with a Marine Power Mitt or terry towel cloth and rub it until you have the look you want. Rinse it with water and let it dry.

To protect the rubber, apply 2 to 4 coats of Vinyl Guard with a clean lint free cloth, folded into a pad. You may not want to get it on the fiberglass or stainless, so mask those areas off with green masking tape. Vinyl Guard is not greasy or slippery and will give you superior protection for 3 to 6 months, depending on where you are located and how severe the sun is.

These products can also be used to restore and protect your power cord and fenders

Thanks for your question
Captain Aurora