How to Restore a Boat

Set a budget for your boat restoration project. You should make a list of all the repairs and replacements that will be required. Estimate the repair or replacement cost for each item on your list. If you are not sure how much a particular part will cost, review at a boat parts store. Add up each item to get your overall project cost. If you are over budget, postpone some things on your list.

Inspect your boat's motor. If you do have a working knowledge of boat motors, ask a boat mechanic to take a look. Complete all boat motor repairs or replacements before restoring any other part of the boat, as a bad motor can put your project over budget.

Inspect the boat's wiring. Check that all wires are connected and secured. Complete a function check on all switches. If a switch does not work, you will need to check and replace the fuses, which are located in the boat's fuse box. Replace any broken or bent wires. If no problems are found with the wiring or fuses, you will need to replace the switch. Switches can be ordered for your specific boat from a boating parts store.

Remove all fabric materials and accessories from the boat. You can clean and wash your seat cushions and other upholstery; some materials may need to be recovered. Contact an upholstery specialist, or ask your trusted boat store for suggestions on which upholsterer to use. Get an estimate from the upholsters for your boat and schedule a time to drop off.

Clean the boat while the upholstery is removed. Purchase fiberglass or wood filler to repair holes and cracks on the boat's surface. Purchase soap and wax formulated for fiberglass or wood. These products will be found in most hardware and auto stores. Wash the inside and outside of the boat with soap and water. Allow the boat to dry and apply a thin coat of wax. Allow the wax to dry and buff off until the fiberglass shines. You will then reinstall all seat cushions and materials removed for repair.