How to Protect Chrome & Metal From Sea Air Rusting

Items that are routinely exposed to salty sea air -- such as boats, cars or structures in a marina -- are susceptible to costly damage. Protecting chrome and other metals from sea air is far easier than having to repair or replace them once corrosion has occurred. Simple and routine maintenance will go a long way in preventing corrosion and may save you hundreds of dollars in the long run -- if faithfully performed to protect your investments.

Things You'll Need

  • Bucket
  • Clean, fresh water
  • Sponge
  • Mild detergent
  • Absorbent towels
  • Waterproof tarps
  • Cord or rope
  • Superfine #0000 steel wool
  • Rags
  • Rust inhibiting product
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Instructions

  1. Clean Surfaces Regularly

    • 1
      Keep a bucket and sponge handy for cleaning surfaces.

      Mix clean, fresh water and a mild detergent. Use sudsy water to clean surfaces with a sponge after each use.

    • 2

      Follow each wash with a clean, fresh water rinse.

    • 3

      Thoroughly dry all surfaces after washing with a dry, absorbent towel.

    Cover and Inspect Metal Surfaces

    • 4
      Cover and protect your investments.

      Cover metal surfaces with a waterproof tarp to protect from sea air mist and rain.

    • 5

      Secure tarps with cord or rope to prevent loosing them in wind or rain.

    • 6

      Inspect metal surfaces monthly. Look for signs of corrosion on surfaces and in cracks and crevices.

    Treat Metal Surfaces with Rust Inhibiting Products

    • 7
      Polish and treat chrome and other metals to inhibit rust.

      Select a rust inhibiting product to apply to clean metal surfaces such as Boeshield T-9, Bull Frog Rust Blocker or Renaissance Wax Polish.

    • 8

      Remove any signs of corrosion with superfine #0000 steel wool. Remove all corrosive dust before applying rust inhibiting compounds.

    • 9

      Apply rust inhibitor with a clean rag to exposed metal surfaces, or as instructed by the product manufacturer.

    • 10

      Remove all traces of residual product with a soft, clean towel or as instructed by the product manufacturer.