Boat Maintenance

Expert advice, how-to guides, and gear reviews from our marine team to help you maintain, repair, and enjoy your boat.

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Showing 22 articles

Restoring Chalky Gelcoat: Compound vs. Wax & Oxidation Removal

Restoring Chalky Gelcoat: Compound vs. Wax & Oxidation Removal

Quick Verdict: Wax does not fix oxidation. If your hull looks "chalky," you must use a Rubbing Compound first to remove the dead gelcoat layer. Onl...

Dec 8, 2025
The Builder's Choice: Attwood, Sea-Dog, and Seachoice Hardware

The Builder's Choice: Attwood, Sea-Dog, and Seachoice Hardware

When you are refitting a boat, finding the exact matching hinge, latch, or switch can be a nightmare. Big box stores stock generic parts, but Go2Ma...

Dec 1, 2025
Deck Hardware Refit: Fixing Hatches, Struts, and Scratches

Deck Hardware Refit: Fixing Hatches, Struts, and Scratches

Water intrusion from the deck is the silent killer of boats. It rots bulkheads and ruins headliners. If your deck hardware is aging, it's time to s...

Nov 26, 2025
Dry Heat vs. Propane: The Complete Dickinson Marine Guide

Dry Heat vs. Propane: The Complete Dickinson Marine Guide

There is a distinct smell to a boat in winter. It’s the smell of mildew and damp cushions.If you boat in the Pacific Northwest or the Northeast, yo...

Nov 24, 2025
Meet Brian Kennedy: A Lifetime on the Water & Here to Help

Meet Brian Kennedy: A Lifetime on the Water & Here to Help

With over 30 years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining boats across the Pacific, Brian Kennedy has a wealth of real-world marine knowl...

Jul 31, 2025
Preparing for Sea with Electronic Flares: Enhance Your Onboard Safety

Preparing for Sea with Electronic Flares: Enhance Your Onboard Safety

Be prepared for any emergency at sea with the latest electronic flares and signaling devices. Traditional pyrotechnic flares can be hazardous and e...

Jul 31, 2025
How to Replace Boat Zincs: Protect Your Boat from Corrosion

How to Replace Boat Zincs: Protect Your Boat from Corrosion

Boat anodes, commonly known as zincs, are essential for preventing galvanic corrosion and protecting your vessel’s metal components. Replacing them...

Jul 31, 2025
10 Must Haves for New Boaters and Anglers

10 Must Haves for New Boaters and Anglers

A great day on the water is about more than just a rod and reel. Having the right boating gear can make all the difference! Whether you're a new bo...

Jul 31, 2025
Boat Prep Checklist

Boat Prep Checklist

Before heading out on the water, safety and maintenance should be your top priority. LFS has compiled a comprehensive pre-season checklist to ensur...

Jul 31, 2025
Choosing the Right Boat Sealant or Caulking

Choosing the Right Boat Sealant or Caulking

Using the right marine sealant is crucial for waterproofing, durability, and long-term protection. Whether you're sealing deck fittings, installing...

Jul 31, 2025

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Restoring Chalky Gelcoat: Compound vs. Wax & Oxidation Removal

Restoring Chalky Gelcoat: Compound vs. Wax & Oxidation Removal

Quick Verdict: Wax does not fix oxidation. If your hull looks "chalky," you must use a Rubbing Compound first to remove the dead gelcoat layer. On...
The Builder's Choice: Attwood, Sea-Dog, and Seachoice Hardware

The Builder's Choice: Attwood, Sea-Dog, and Seachoice Hardware

When you are refitting a boat, finding the exact matching hinge, latch, or switch can be a nightmare. Big box stores stock generic parts, but Go2Ma...
Deck Hardware Refit: Fixing Hatches, Struts, and Scratches

Deck Hardware Refit: Fixing Hatches, Struts, and Scratches

Water intrusion from the deck is the silent killer of boats. It rots bulkheads and ruins headliners. If your deck hardware is aging, it's time to s...
Dry Heat vs. Propane: The Complete Dickinson Marine Guide

Dry Heat vs. Propane: The Complete Dickinson Marine Guide

There is a distinct smell to a boat in winter. It’s the smell of mildew and damp cushions. If you boat in the Pacific Northwest or the Northeast, y...
Meet Brian Kennedy: A Lifetime on the Water & Here to Help

Meet Brian Kennedy: A Lifetime on the Water & Here to Help

With over 30 years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining boats across the Pacific, Brian Kennedy has a wealth of real-world marine knowledge. From charter and commercial fishing in Hawaii and Guam to salvage operations, whale watching tours, and even sunken treasure hunts, Brian has done it all.

Preparing for Sea with Electronic Flares: Enhance Your Onboard Safety

Preparing for Sea with Electronic Flares: Enhance Your Onboard Safety

Be prepared for any emergency at sea with the latest electronic flares and signaling devices. Traditional pyrotechnic flares can be hazardous and expire quickly, while electronic flares provide a safer, reusable, and highly visible alternative.

How to Replace Boat Zincs: Protect Your Boat from Corrosion

How to Replace Boat Zincs: Protect Your Boat from Corrosion

Boat anodes, commonly known as zincs, are essential for preventing galvanic corrosion and protecting your vessel’s metal components. Replacing them regularly ensures long-term durability and fewer costly repairs.

10 Must Haves for New Boaters and Anglers

10 Must Haves for New Boaters and Anglers

A great day on the water is about more than just a rod and reel. Having the right boating gear can make all the difference! Whether you're a new boater or seasoned angler, With the help of Nicole Stone, we've put together these essential accessories will help you stay safe, prepared, and comfortable.

Boat Prep Checklist

Boat Prep Checklist

Before heading out on the water, safety and maintenance should be your top priority. LFS has compiled a comprehensive pre-season checklist to ensure your boat is in top condition.

Choosing the Right Boat Sealant or Caulking

Choosing the Right Boat Sealant or Caulking

Using the right marine sealant is crucial for waterproofing, durability, and long-term protection. Whether you're sealing deck fittings, installing a portlight, or repairing a hull, choosing the wrong sealant can lead to leaks, adhesion issues, or costly repairs.