Bleeding canvas snaps

[scoflaw]

After several rains I notice dark streaks running down my gelcoat where the snaps are. I lube with silicone, but not sure that's my problem. Any cure for this, besides buffing?

 

[Pyrojodge]

Same problem here... always just use megiures qick wax and it comes right off... it is a PITA!

 

[Lazy Daze]

Very normal. A lot of the dirt that is on a cover will tend to collect around the snaps as rainwater flows off. Snaps, themselves, also just seem to be a magnet for dirt and crud, including old compound and wax. A silicone (or greasy) lubricant will also attract more dirt. A dry lubricant - like beeswax will help with that part. You can get a 1lb block of it at craft stores for under $10 and it will last your, your kids' and their kids' lifetime.

You can't completely stop the "mascara" effect, but you can lessen it. Start by using a small, stiff brush to clean both the male and female snaps. Next, try to wash your cover on a semi-regular basis as that will keep the collected dirt at bay.

The better your boat wax is, the better the black streaks will come off (and less will show up to start with). There's plenty of good waxes, but I use Collonite 885 paste wax. It's one, if not the, hardest waxes to apply - but lasts a long, long time. Because it's a time consuming effort to put it on, I only use it above the rubrail.

I can take black streaks off with a damp rag.

 

[cherokeeguy]

I have all ways had that same problem with my boat, thought it was just a part of boating untill this year i tried the meguirs polymer based wax that was recomended by the local paint supply store for the best protection and longest lasting, i cant attest to how long it lasts just yet as the boat has only been in about 3 weeks but so far it was extremly easy to apply and remove, creates great water beading and the black steaks come right off why doing the weekly boat wash, no special soap or scrubbing needed, i just use a soft brush and a quality car wash soap and it shines just like the day it was waxed. Not sure if you have tryed this but if not might be a easy way to at least make your clean up easier.