Table of Contents
How to Restore Gelcoat on a Boat Step 1: Identify the Boat Finish. Step 2: Surface Preparation. Step 3: Tape Off the Area. Step 4: Apply Filler. Step 5: Color Match the Gelcoat. Step 6: Mix in the Catalyst. Step 7: Apply the Gelcoat. Step 8: Sand, Buff, and Polish.
How much does it cost to restore gelcoat?
So, if you are getting professional, they might charge you around $300 to $500 per foot for the entire process. One-third of the cost is for the materials, and the rest two-third is the labor cost. As an example, with a 16-foot craft, prepare to spend around $8000 on re-gel coating.
Can you recoat gelcoat?
Gelcoat is pretty forgiving as long as you can handle a little sanding and buffing if it doesnt go on as planned. make sure you put enough on so you can sand it without going through to the old stuff.
How do you restore old gelcoat?
5 Steps to Restoring Oxidized Gelcoat Wash and Remove Surface Dirt and Debris. The first step to removing oxidation and giving your boat a new look entails washing and eliminating every form of surface dirt. Removing Stains. Wet/Dry Sanding. Polishing Compounds. Waxing and Sealing with Protectant.
How long does gelcoat last on a boat?
Regularly waxed gelcoat can retain its gloss for 15 years or more. The real purpose of a coat of wax is to protect, but wax also has restorative properties if the gelcoat is not too badly weathered.
Can faded gelcoat be restored?
To help to restore the color, shine and appearance of your boat, choose a gelcoat restorer. Gelcoat restorers are suitable for fiberglass (GRP) gelcoats and can help to give long lasting effects, wetting the pigment to restore a strong and vibrant color and shine. Restores color and shine. Easy to apply.
Can you gelcoat over fiberglass?
Incorrect Surface Preparation – Gelcoat will only adhere to fiberglass, previously cured gelcoat, or polyester resin. Do not apply gelcoat to any paint or protective coating because it will not adhere. Existing paint will have to be removed. In order to prepare the surface correctly, it must be sanded.
How do you prep for gel coating?
If the gelcoat is in good condition with no major cracking or crazing, the job is relatively straightforward—clean and prepare the surface, apply an epoxy primer, sand the primer, remove the sanding residue and then apply the topcoat. So, the gelcoat on your boat is looking chalky and faded.
Can you apply second coat of gelcoat?
Your second coat will consist of the same amount of Catalyst, but if you are doing one more coat, your next coat will include Sanding Aid, or ‘wax. ‘ You will mix in 1 oz per quart to the gelcoat, which will seal the surface from oxygen, causing the gelcoat to dry tack-free.
What is the difference between fiberglass and gelcoat?
Fiberglass is what is used as the base of the boat. Over the fiberglass usually gelcoat is applied at the factory. If the surface is scratched gelcoat is the same color throughout; if the surface has been painted when scratched it will show what is underneath.
Do you have to sand between coats of gelcoat?
Sanding between coats is not necessary unless a surfacing agent has been added to your gel coat. Once your repair is covered, feather a ‘flow’ or sanding coat on the masked-off area making layered passes to avoid a buildup of gel coat in any one area. Each of these coats of gelcoat may involve several passes.
How do you cure tacky gelcoat?
Most of us know gel coat stays tacky in open air, and if you’re doing so you should either use wax additive, cover it with some sort of plastic, or have to resort to just cleaning off the surface with acetone before sanding.
Can you spray clear coat over gelcoat?
You might be able to apply the clear coat over the gel coat without prepping. However, if I were you I would probably sand with a fine grit paper, then wipe down the surfaces with isopropyl alcohol. Alternatively, you can wipe down with the same solvent that is supplied with the Imron clear coat.
How thick is gelcoat on a boat?
Many marine craft and some aircraft are manufactured using composite materials with an outer layer of gelcoat, typically 0.5 mm to 0.8 mm (0.02 in to 0.03 in) thick. Gelcoats are designed to be durable, providing resistance to ultraviolet degradation and hydrolysis.
Does oxalic acid damage gelcoat?
Most contain oxalic acid, with some supplied as a liquid and others mixed with a gel to help them stay in contact with the hull as long as possible. However, not all acids will leave the gelcoat untouched, so it’s worth using products that are certified safe for boats.
Can you wet sand gelcoat?
Wet sanding: Start with 600- to 800-grit wet-dry sandpaper. 3M recommends finish sanding with 1500-grit because its easier to buff out a 1500-grit scratch then an 800-grit one. Be sure to keep the hull wet. If youre sanding by hand, soak the sandpaper in a bucket of fresh water until youre ready to use it.
Does gelcoat expire?
Polyester resins and gelcoat have a limited shelf life, and will eventually harden in the container—without the addition of catalyst. In general, the shelf life for uncatalyzed polyester resins should be up to 6 months, when stored in dry, cool conditions below 70°F.
What is the purpose of gelcoat on fiberglass?
Gelcoat is a liquid that hardens to form a thick layer that’s used to protect fiberglass and give it a shiny, smooth finish. Applying gelcoat to fiberglass is simple if you have the right tools and take care to mix your gelcoat properly.
