We've all seen the threads about cleaning various things like shag poop, red wine, tea and other spills. Well, I have a theory. You see, it's all a conspiracy between the big companies. Yep, another conspiracy. ;)

Take varnish for instance. If you carefully follow the manufacturers instructions for surface prep, application and number of coats, you'll get what, maybe 2 years before it starts to crack and peel?? However, spill it on the deck and it will be there how long? FOREVER..!

Then there's wax. Read all the reviews, get the best wax you can find. Sand, compound, polish and apply 3 coats and buff. And you'll have to re-wax next year. However, get some on your dodger?? Lasts FOREVER..! I have a couple wax streaks on the inside of my dodger that have been there for many years with no sign of fading and defy all attempts to remove them.

Now, use Sunbrella waterproofing on the dodger. Doesn't last long there, but it sure lasts a long time if you drip some on the deck; or dribble some on the clear plastic windows. :eek: Not quite FOREVER, but close.

Oh, let's not forget about silicone? We all know it doesn't last long sealing a stanchion base or chain plate; leaks in no time. But get it on the deck and it'll be there FOREVER; or at least until you sell the boat.

So, I've concluded that they're all in collusion, telling us to use their products in ways that guarantee they'll sell a lot of it. But I'm gonna fix 'em :p Instead, I'm going to 'wax' my deck with dodger waterproofing, waterproof the dodger with wax, varnish the topsides and silicone seal the bright work. I won't have to re-do anything for a decade at least...!