Are you thinking about taking on a classic boat restoration? Here are a few things to consider before taking the leap.
Location
If you are doing the classic boat restoration yourself, you need to make sure the boat is protected throughout the entire process. An ideal location would be near your home in a garage or outside the building. If you don't have access to a building, be sure to keep it covered when you are working on it. Either way, there are three key elements you must have:
- Enough natural sunlight
- Access to running water
- Access to a power supply
Before Committing, Get a Survey
There are different types of surveys, but the most common is a condition and value survey. A surveyor will assess the overall condition of the boat, report problems, and give a market valuation. Specialized surveys may be needed for engines, electrical, and other systems. You can find a list of accredited marine surveyors at NAMSGlobal website and Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors.
Give the Boat a Thorough Cleaning for Better Inspection
This may seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how often this step is missed before the restoration process begins. It serves the practical purpose of finding any problems you may have missed previously.
- Clean the base standard to start
- Unblock all drainage holes
- Clean the bilge
- Lift any hull access points to clean and inspect
Make a List of Broken Items
Keeping a record of items that need repairing or replacing will help you plan your classic boat restoration in a logical order. This will save you time and a lot of frustration by knowing ahead of time what you will need. You will not want to remember a component you forgot you need after the restoration has been completed. Although, some repairs may not be visible until the restoration has begun.
Inspect Any Through-Hull Fittings
Check for any fittings that penetrate the hull, as these will flood the boat. Repair using a specialized seal to form the through-hull fittings with the hull.
Check the Seacocks
The seacocks serve two purposes. Some allow water in to cool the engine. Others, as in the cockpit drain, allow water out. Be sure to repair these properly because a seized seacock can cause the boat to flood and sink.
Check the Condition of the Hull
What you are looking for will depend on the material the hull is constructed with, but a thorough inspection is required.
Fiberglass
Check for cracks and other signs of damage due to water penetration. If there is minimal damage, you may be able to easily repair this yourself. However, it is best to seek professional help if extensive repairs are needed. Special attention should be paid to the cleats, stanchions, and chainplates where cracks often occur.
Wooden hulls
Wooden hulls often experience rotten or dried-out wood. Unless you are very confident, repairs should be outsourced to a specialist. Resealing sound woodwork is an easy, but time-consuming process, so depending on your time restraints, it may be best to seek professional help with that as well.
Inspect the Load-bearing Fixtures
The load-bearing fixtures, such as cleats and chainplates have a backing plate behind them. Be sure this plate is secure and in good condition, as it spreads the load and prevents damage.
Inspect Every Halyard, Sheet, or Control Line
The material used to make halyards and sheets is very resistant to the elements of salt water and sun. However, they can deteriorate over time and need replacing. Replace any frayed lines and wash any in good condition with a non-bio detergent. Thoroughly rinse with fresh water.
Examine Your Sails
Sails are exposed to a hostile environment and prone to damage caused by heavy wind, rain, saltwater, and UV light.
Cringles
Check for any damage to the metal, as well as the fraying of the stitching. Any repairs require the work of a skilled sailmaker.
Sail's Surface
Any holes, tears, or frayed stitching can be repaired with specialty repair tape or resewn.
Edges
Again, look for fraying, loose stitching, and signs of stretching.
Mold
Although mold is not damaging to the sails, it is not attractive. Mold issues can generally be fixed easily with a special cleaner.
Estimate the Cost of the Classic Boat Restoration
Keeping a list of what needs repairing and what needs replacing is a good start. You can generally find the prices of parts easily. The price is certainly going to depend on what you are starting out with and the extent of damage and the work that needs to be done. Be prepared that it can be quite costly, again depending on your starting point.
It is often best to get a professional estimate before you begin your classic boat restoration. You really want to know what to expect. Decide if it is feasible or not. This decision becomes all the harder to make when the boat has historical or sentimental value.
Plan Your Classic Boat Restoration in Stages
If you have decided to move forward, plan the restoration process in stages. It's best to complete some stages before others. For instance, it makes sense to replace damaged structural components before relaying the deck. Keep track of completed work with part numbers and prices. Make realistic deadlines for completing each stage to keep you on track.
Be honest with yourself about your skill level. Some jobs should be handled by a professional unless you are very confident. This should factor into your timetable, as you may not control the availability or time needed to complete a professional task.
Final Thoughts
Classic boat restoration should be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. With proper planning, patience, and resources, you can give new life to your vintage boat and get her back on the water again.
Absolute Classics can help with every stage of the restoration process. From finding a boat to finding tools and parts, we have a wide selection for all of your classic restoration needs. Contact us today and let us help you with your project. It's smooth sailing from there!