Marine foam requires almost zero maintenance, but there are some basic care steps that maximise its lifespan. Discover what to do and what to avoid at all costs.
One of the main reasons owners choose marine foam over teak is its extremely low maintenance requirement. However, there are some basic practices that make the difference between a pristine deck after 10 years and one that starts showing premature wear.
Routine cleaning: what to do
- Rinse with fresh water after each trip to remove deposited salt.
- For light soiling: water with neutral soap and a soft-bristle brush.
- For oil or fuel stains: mild marine degreaser, no aggressive solvents.
- Leave to dry completely before covering the boat with a tarpaulin.
What to avoid absolutely
- Strong solvents (acetone, thinner): degrade the material and dissolve the adhesive.
- Abrasive cleaners or metal scourers: scratch the surface and accelerate UV wear.
- Suntanning oils or sunscreen creams: permanently stain the foam core.
- Very high water pressure directly on the joints: can lift edges.
Annual inspection: 10 minutes a year
Once per season, check the edges of the pieces and high-traffic areas. If any edge is lifting, apply a little marine contact adhesive and press under weight for 24 hours. Correcting an edge in time prevents the problem from spreading.
Winter storage
Marine foam handles European winter temperatures perfectly. There is no need to remove it or apply any special treatment. If the boat is ashore under a cover, make sure the deck is completely dry before covering it to prevent prolonged moisture build-up.