How Do I Get The Mineral Deposits Off Of my Aluminum Pontoon Logs?
Gary asked:
How do I get the mineral deposits off of my aluminum pontoon logs? Pressure washing took off the algae but the sandpaper like grit remains. It can be scraped off with a putty knife but the toons get very scratched up this way…A few years back I purchased a linear buffer and polish from you but the buffer is junk…it wont oscillate….any help is appreciated…Gary
Answer:
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Hi Gary,
The mineral deposits are calcium (limestone) and possibly some magnesium (marble). This is difficult to remove from aluminum without damaging the aluminum.
If your pontoons are protected with Alumetron, you can use Algae Strip. It may take several applications.
If your pontoons are unprotected, you will need to use sandpaper. I recommend wet sanding with 600 to 800 grit wet sandpaper, in a horizontal motion only, to match the grain in the aluminum. If you try to sand across the grain or in a circular motion, you will see unsightly swirl marks.
If your linear buffer is still working, you can use it with long strips of sandpaper to make the job easier and faster. If it no longer works and is out of warranty, you will need to replace it. Sanding mineral deposits by hand is long and hard work. I would not recommend it.
Thanks for your question,
Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar
The Skipper Recommends:
ALUMETRON
ALGAE STRIP
LINEAR BUFFER POWER POINT PROFESSIONAL QUALITY