Eliminate chalky deck runoff

[PatSea]

I have a 32' express cruiser. The tan nonskid front deck is dirty from having sat under shrink wrap for two years. Worse yet, when I scrub the deck with boat soap or after it rains I get this white milky looking residue running down over the darker colors of the hull, and over the windows. I have tried StarBright deck cleaner and it won't even clean the deck. So I have two problems, how to clean the deck and how to protect it and get rid of the chalky/milky runoff. I've read about useing bleach, then waxing. But wax on a non-skid surface doesn't sound like a good idea either. Need suggestions!

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[Woodonglass]

Re: Eliminate chalky deck runoff

Is the deck Painted or Gelcoat?

 

[PatSea]

Re: Eliminate chalky deck runoff

It's non-skid gel coat.

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: Eliminate chalky deck runoff

Sounds like a LOT of oxidation that's rinsing off when you clean or rinse the boat. Since it's non-skid, you probably haven't waxed or buffed it.

 

[PatSea]

Re: Eliminate chalky deck runoff

I have not waxed it tor several years. Did not want a slick deck.

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: Eliminate chalky deck runoff

You're likely not getting ALL the oxidation off, however you're cleaning it. Boatworks has a video:

Oxalic (sp?) acid in powder or liquid form helps cut oxidation too. I think it's in both teak cleaner & StarBrite non-skid cleaner have it in them. Barkeeper's friend may be a good alternate too.