how to do gel coat repair

Applying and Finishing New Gelcoat

1. Purchase a wax gelcoat repair kit that matches the color of the damaged spot. Gelcoat repair kits come with 2 parts...
2. Mix the new gelcoat according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Pour the amounts of each part recommended by the...
3. Press the gelcoat onto the damaged area with the mixing stick. Scoop enough of the putty out...

Full Answer

How much hardener to use for gelcoat repair?

a lamp to reliquify. product is flammable, use caution! directions for pol yester hardener polyester resin/gelcoat is catalyzed with mekp (methyl ethyl ketone peroxide). the ratio is approximately one ounce of hardener per gallon of resin. use the following ratios for smaller amounts. amount of resin or gelcoa t hardener amount 1 ounce 10 drops

How to remove tough stains from gel coat?

Techniques on how to remove tough stains from fiberglass tub

• Baking soda and water. When dealing with the build-up of soap scum, it can be hard to remove with regular bathroom cleaners. ...
• Vinegar. For stubborn soap scum, you need to use an acid such as vinegar to dissolve it. ...
• Hydrogen peroxide. When dealing with dark stains, you can use hydrogen peroxide. ...
• Acetone or paint thinners. ...

How to restore gelcoat?

How to Restore Gelcoat on a Boat. Step 1: Cleaning the dirt on your boat’s surface; Step 2: Removing the gelcoat stainst; Step 3: Restoring oxidized gelcoat and bring back the shine; Step 4: Waxing your boat for protection; Some Other Tips for Restoring and Maintaining Your Boat’s Gel Coat. 1. Let the Non-Skid areas alone; 2.

How much hardener do you put in gel coat?

How do you thicken gel coat?

• Micro-balloons will make the cured resin lighter (less dense).
• Milled glass will make the cured resin stronger.
• Fumed silica will make the uncured resin thicker so it can be spread on.
• Styrene will make the uncured resin thinner and easier to spray.

How do you repair damaged gel coat?

2:045:22How To Repair Boat Gelcoat [MATERIALS LIST ] | BoatUSYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI thoroughly mix the Jocko and the catalyst together. And all I'm going to do is use one mixingMoreI thoroughly mix the Jocko and the catalyst together. And all I'm going to do is use one mixing stick. And drop it into the crack. And just tap it to make sure that there's no trapped air bubbles.

Can you gelcoat over gelcoat?

Can You Spray Gelcoat Over Gelcoat? The short answer's yes. But first, make sure the surface is free from dirt and debris. Using the window frame analogy again, you wouldn't apply new paint over old paint without preparing the surface.

How do you touch up gelcoat on a boat?

2:236:04Boat Gelcoat Repair On Vertical Surface [MATERIALS LIST ] | BoatUSYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI've catalyzed the gel coat and now using a foam brush. I'm gonna paint it on just as you wouldMoreI've catalyzed the gel coat and now using a foam brush. I'm gonna paint it on just as you would paint.

Can gelcoat cracks be repaired?

Cracked gelcoat should be removed. After gelcoat removal, sand the fiberglass laminate with 80-grit sandpaper. After sanding, make any needed repairs to the area. Roll on a minimum of three coats of WEST SYSTEM® Epoxy to seal the fiberglass before applying a finish coat of paint or gelcoat.

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.

Can you roll and tip gelcoat?

The most common method for application is the “roll and tip” method. This is where the paint is applied to the surface using a roller and then “tipped off” with a brush to spread the paint and to remove the roller marks. This is best achieved by having two people working shoulder to shoulder.

How do you fill holes in gelcoat?

1:389:32Part 4 - How to Repair Screw Holes in a Fiberglass Boat - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipApply the gel coat to the damaged. Area build up enough to be able to sand even with the existingMoreApply the gel coat to the damaged. Area build up enough to be able to sand even with the existing surface without exposing the screw hole or damaged.

What is gelcoat filler?

GELCOAT FILLER is a white, waterproof gelcoat filler for surface repairs. It is paintable, easy to mix, apply, shape and sand. Suited to marine paint. GELCOAT FILLER is a white, waterproof gelcoat filler for surface repairs.

Can you apply gelcoat with a brush?

Applying Gelcoat by Brush or Roller – (Use a Brushable Gelcoat) When applying gelcoat by brush or roller, we recommend the Ultra Plus Brushable Gelcoat. (other Gelcoats are best applied by Spray) The Ultra Plus Brushable Gelcoat is designed for self-leveling and is a much easier application.

Can you paint over gelcoat cracks?

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.

What is gel coat paste?

A gelcoat putty for repairing cracks, gouges or holes in gelcoat. This paste cures tack free. Wet sand with 400 grit and finer and buff to a gloss. Kit includes gel paste 8oz, MEKP catalyst, sandpaper, mixing stick, spreader and wax paper. Comes in neutral and white.

Can you sand gel coat?

Sand gelcoat surface with 800 grit abrasive on a dual action sander. Set the speed of the dual action sander at 900 – 1100 Max. RPM. When sanding, abrade the surface with a 50% overlap on each pass with a dual action sander.

Can you redo gelcoat on a boat?

Gelcoat cannot bond to a painted surface, so it is vital to identify the boat finish before beginning repairs. Boats that already have gelcoat, fiberglass, or polyester resin surface do not need any additional steps before repairing. Painted boats will need to have the paint removed before applying the gelcoat.

How long do you wait between coats of gelcoat?

15-20 minutesMix thoroughly to ensure that all gel coat is properly catalyzed. Apply gel coat to mold surface. Spraying gel coat is recommended for more accurate and consistent coverage. Apply gel coat in 4-5 layers at approximately 5 mils each, allowing 15-20 minutes between layers for a total thickness of 20-25 mils.

Can you paint over old gelcoat?

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.

What causes gel coat cracking?

The main causes are: Swelling of the resin due to water diffusion. Wave action and rigging stresses. Direct sunlight or thermal shock on darker colored gelcoat can cause warping, delamination and blistering.

Q: How do I repair a gouge in a fiberglass boat?

A: Fill the gouge with filler and sand out any other scratches while waiting for the filler to cure. Apply your gel coat to the filled gouges and s...

Q: When do I need to repair cracks in the gel coat?

A: You'll need to repair the gel coat as soon as you notice any cracks or scratches. Immediate repair ensures you don't have to deal with water dam...

Q: What does professional gel coat repair cost?

A: Repairing the gel coat yourself is a great way to save some money you can use for bait or gas for your next fishing trip. However, we understand...

Q: Can I blend my gel coat?

A: Yes, you can wet sand the repair work to seamlessly blend the new gel coat into the original. Start with 240-grit sandpaper followed by 400-grit...

Q: What is a brushable gel coat?

A: The brushable gel coat offers boaters a purpose-formulated product designed to apply like paint and do away with the need for spray equipment du...

How long does it take to repair gelcoat?

Use a small wood or plastic putty knife to spread the gelcoat smoothly over the gelcoat repair. You should have about 10 to 15 minutes of working time after adding the catalyst before it starts to harden and is no longer fluid. Fill the repair slightly higher than the surrounding surface to allow for sanding.

Can you match gelcoat on a boat?

Match the Color. For current boats, your dealer might be able to supply matching gelcoat. But due to weathering on your boat, it may not match. There are kits from companies such as Evercoat with pigments to add to the resin for a match.

Can you repair a fiberglass boat with gelcoat?

It might be from a muffed landing, a dropped pair of fishing pliers or just a hole drilled in the wrong place. You can usually fix gelcoat repairs yourself. It takes a bit of patience, but do it right and few will notice.

How much does it cost to repair gelcoat on a boat?

For large surface repairs, it is recommended that you take your boat to a professional, which can cost between $70 and $110 per hour .

How to restore gelcoat on boat?

If your gelcoat has oxidized, giving it a dull, chalky appearance, you can simply use a gelcoat oxidation remover to sand and polish the surface to a low sheen without the need for full repairs.

How to remove PVA from a drywall wall?

Finish with a light sanding using 1,000-grit paper and buff the area with rubbing compound. Buffing gelcoat must be done delicately so as not to create heat that can stain the surface. Finally, apply a coat of wax-based gel coat polish .

What to use to fill scratches on boat?

Deep scratches and gouges need to be filled with resin and an epoxy-based filler before continuing. Although more expensive than polyester filler, epoxy adheres better and lasts longer. However, there are additional steps you need to take before applying the final coat of gelcoat and/or boat paint.

Why does gelcoat crack?

Despite the durability of gelcoat, the tough film can deteriorate over time. High-performance speed craft, such as bass boats, flex as they move through the water, causing the rigid boat gel coat to crack. Spider and hairline cracks can also occur from environmental stress or impact. The keel is especially prone to damage from accidental impact ...

How to get rid of gelcoat spatter?

Tape off any sensitive items or adjacent areas that may be damaged from gelcoat spatter or accidental sanding. You can also apply masking paper to prevent overspray if you are using a spray gelcoat restorer. Sand the entire taped-off area with 360-grit paper and clean up with acetone.

What is Durabak overcoat?

Durabak is a more heavy-duty and flexible alternative to gel coat that won’t crack or peel over time or get scratched from impact.

What is gelcoat on canoes?

Gelcoat is the “paint” we use on our composite canoes. It is a resin that provides a smooth hard finish to a canoe. It protects the underlying cloth and acts as an abrasion layer. But in cases of impacts, pins or situations where the canoe is wrapped, gelcoat can chip and crack.

How long do composite canoes last?

Properly maintained composite canoes last for decades because you can keep repairing them. In addition to gelcoat repairs you can easily add material patches to the inside of a composite canoe to stiffen or reinforce the hull where necessary.