Hull Care 101: Why Cleaning and Inspecting Your Hull Matters More Than You Think
- arkmarineco
- Aug 4, 2025
- 2 min read
Neglecting your hull could be draining your wallet and slowing your boat — discover the hidden risks below the waterline and how to fix them before they become costly.
In this article, we’ll cover how to properly clean and inspect your boat’s hull, the problems that can arise when it’s neglected, and the simple steps you can take to protect your performance, fuel efficiency, and wallet. Examples like:
Why regular hull cleaning isn’t just for looks
How buildup affects performance and fuel efficiency
What to inspect during routine cleanings
Signs of hull damage or wear to look out for
Professional vs. DIY hull care options
It’s What’s Underneath That Counts
When it comes to your boat, the hull is the silent workhorse. It bears the brunt of every ripple, wave, trailer ride, and dock bump—and yet, it’s often the most neglected part of the vessel. While topside cleaning gets the glory, hull care is where real performance and longevity are won (or lost).
The Hidden Cost of a Dirty Hull
A grimy, algae-coated hull isn’t just unsightly—it’s expensive. Even a thin layer of growth or scum can significantly increase drag in the water, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Studies show a fouled hull can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 30%.
Add to that the long-term corrosion risk, hull blistering, or unnoticed impact damage, and you’ve got yourself a problem that cleaning once a year just won’t solve.
Hull Inspections: What You Should Be Checking For
During each cleaning (or at least seasonally), keep an eye out for:
Blisters or bubbles in the gelcoat (possible osmosis)
Cracks or stress fractures around the keel or chine
Barnacle or mussel growth, especially in saltwater
Loose or corroded thru-hull fittings
Scrapes, gouges, or dock rash
Catching small issues early helps avoid structural problems or leaks later—especially critical for older vessels or boats that are trailered frequently.
DIY or Professional? Here’s When to Call Us
If your boat sits in the water long-term, routine underwater hull cleaning may be necessary (and best left to professionals). For trailered boats or seasonal users, cleaning your hull with marine-safe soap and a non-abrasive brush every few weeks can go a long way.
But when it comes to:
Persistent discoloration or staining
Thru-hull or transducer inspections
That’s where we come in.
At Ark Marine, we offer full-service hull inspections, cleaning, and protective coatings to keep your boat sleek, safe, and efficient.
Need a professional hull inspection or deep clean?
Schedule your service with Ark Marine today and keep your boat running like it should—from the bottom up.
