how to repair deep gouges in gelcoat

Fixing Gelcoat Gouges: How to Make Them Disappear

1. Matching the Color. You can obtain the current color of gelcoat from your dealer as long as your boat is a newer model. ...
2. Smoothing the Gouge. Take your hand-held grinder and smooth out the edges to the gouge using various sized bits to get the job done.
3. Applying the Gelcoat. ...
4. Sanding and Finishing. ...

Full Answer

How long does it take to fix a gelcoat gouge?

Despite being a protective coating, a strong enough impact will leave behind scratches or the inevitable gouge. While boat owners don’t have to worry about barely visible scratches, a gouge is unsightly. Thankfully, it’s a simple fix so long as the gouge isn’t too deep. Fixing gelcoat gouges takes roughly one to two hours.

What do I need to purchase to repair a deep gouge?

For deeper gouges, you will need to purchase gelcoat in various colors. Tints are available as well if custom matching larger quantities of gelcoat or paste. The kit will contain everything you need to do the job including some tints for matching.

How do you fix a scratch on a gelcoat?

Give yourself a 16th of an inch of unmasked margin around the scratch, gouge or hole. Also, mask off any adjacent areas or items to protect them from inadvertently applied gelcoat or errant sanding. Clean up the repair area again with acetone.

Can you fix a deep gouge on a fiberglass boat?

While you may have the skills to apply the right filler, a deep enough gouge required structural fiberglass work. Multitone finishes and diamond non skid surfaces run into similar issues that need professional repair; that’s why it’s good to have quality boat insurance. Finally, fixing gelcoat gouges on a vertical surface is nearly impossible.

How do you fix gouges in gelcoat?

Begin by sanding around the area and the scratch with 320-grit paper. Again, be cautious not to remove too much material. After sanding, use a Dremel tool to clean out the gouge a bit, then feather the edges of the scratch with 180-grit. This helps the gelcoat blend in and helps hide the edges of the filled scratch.

How do you repair a deep gouge in a fiberglass boat?

0:502:51How to Repair Deep Cracks in Fiberglass Boats - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUsing the disposable brush saturate it with epoxy. One at a time apply and saturate theMoreUsing the disposable brush saturate it with epoxy. One at a time apply and saturate the progressively smaller pieces of fiberglass.

How do you repair deep scratches in fiberglass?

Fill any deep gouges and spend your time sanding out scratches while the filler sets up. Apply gel coat to the filled gouges and finish to the scratches and then final-sand the filled gouges. Buff all the repaired areas and then the rest of the boat. Apply any graphics to finish up.

Can I add filler to gelcoat?

Gel coat filler Use the same amount of catalyst as with straight gel coat. If your gel coat has wax or surfacing agent in it, you must sand all the surface before adding any more filler or gel coat over it. After the filler putty kicks, heat it with a heat gun. This will help with the shrinkage.

How do you repair a chip in a fiberglass boat hull?

0:043:27XS Ribs: How to do a Fibreglass / Gell Coat Repair of a Chip or ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDifficult. So make sure the hole is all clean and dry mix up your resin a lot of people don't mix upMoreDifficult. So make sure the hole is all clean and dry mix up your resin a lot of people don't mix up enough resin.

How do you fix broken gelcoat on a boat?

0:428:44How To Fix Spider Cracks, Hairline Cracks, and Crazing in ... - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust painting on some Jocko is really effective. So what I'm going to do is I'm going to open up theMoreJust painting on some Jocko is really effective. So what I'm going to do is I'm going to open up the cracks with my dremel tool and that will give the joke out something to bite into.

How do you use gelcoat fillers?

2:334:21Filler Gel Coat - Bow Repair - Fiberglass GRP Damage Part 2YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst thing I'm going to do is flatten all this off and again we're going to use 80 grit Sun SunMoreFirst thing I'm going to do is flatten all this off and again we're going to use 80 grit Sun Sun paper around a sanding block to rub this nice and flat and to get really excess material we

How do you use rubbing compound on gelcoat?

0:215:30Compounding Gel Coat - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo the way we use is we use it with a low rpm starting 600 rpm and never going about 1800 rpm yourMoreSo the way we use is we use it with a low rpm starting 600 rpm and never going about 1800 rpm your heaviest cut is going to come at your low rpm. If you heats up to the higher rpms.

Can boat gel coat be repaired?

0:085:22How To Repair Boat Gelcoat [MATERIALS LIST ] | BoatUSYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd if I leave that moisture is gonna get in so all I'm gonna do now is just grind this out and fixMoreAnd if I leave that moisture is gonna get in so all I'm gonna do now is just grind this out and fix this and then we'll end up with a seamless repair.

Can Bondo be used on fiberglass boats?

Bondo should never be used on a boat.

What is gelcoat putty used for?

Gelcoat Repair Putty is the BEST choice if you're in need of a fiberglass gelcoat repair kit! If you are wondering how to repair fiberglass or gelcoat on a boat then this Gelcoat Putty is the ONLY product you'll need to use, and the easiest way to fix it! 100% U.S. MADE! QUICK SET!

How do you remove scratches from a fiberglass boat?

1:4213:32How to Remove Scratches From Gel Coat by Wet Sanding and PolishingYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThan what we're gonna use initially. And then finally we're gonna use a machine polish. And that'sMoreThan what we're gonna use initially. And then finally we're gonna use a machine polish. And that's gonna put that that depth at that sheen on the boat that really really good shine.

What is gelcoat paste?

Gelcoat paste for permanent marine gelcoat repairs. Neatly covers gouges, scrapes and scratches in fiberglass. Use Evercoat coloring agents to create a color match. Hardener included.

What is black gel coat?

Black HK Gel Coat are specially formulated, pigmented polyester resin that is used as a protective outer coating. Gel coats use 2% hardener by volume, Gelcoat is a highly durable coating and is the outermost structural layer on a fiberglass part, designed to protect the underlying fiberglass layers.

How long does it take to fix a gelcoat gouge?

Fixing gelcoat gouges takes roughly one to two hours . While it isn’t an elementary project, it’s a lot easier than fixing used outboard motors. Keep in mind that this method can work on scratches, nicks, and chips as well as gouges. Here are the tools you’ll need to get the job done:

How to spread gelcoat resin over gouge?

Mix this catalyst in at the proper ratio, stir, and use your putty knife to spread the mixture evenly over the gouge. Remember, the gelcoat needs to remain in liquid form during this step.

What If the Gouge Isn’t Fixed?

Sometimes, a gouge is too deep for this process to work. In this instance, you need to apply fillers, epoxy resin, and sometimes even fiberglass depending on how serious the damage is. Not only does this cost more, but it’s also time-consuming and far more complicated.

What is gelcoat on fiberglass?

Gelcoat is a modified version of these resins, capable of being molded in its liquid form before drying. This is what gives your boat that glass-like finish.

How to get rid of a gouge on a table?

Take your hand-held grinder and smooth out the edges to the gouge using various sized bits to get the job done. Make sure to remove any loose material left behind from the damage. Then, clean the area with acetone after scraping away excess sealant. Before moving forward, tape off the area with your masking tape.

How to make a gelcoat color match?

Your best bet is to find the exact color then add pigments to create an ideal match. Mix up your gelcoat, the pigments, and any other coloring elements in the mixing cups. Stir them with your sticks, making sure to wear both your dust mask and latex gloves during the process.

Can you fix gelcoat gouges?

No matter how much you paid for your personal watercraft, fixing gelcoat gouges is easier than most boat owners think.

How to protect gelcoat from drips?

If you are working in an area where the new gelcoat could drip down, then mask off the area below it with tape as well to protect it. You can tape plastic sheets over large areas to protect them.

How to smooth a gouge?

Use a rotary tool with a burr bit to taper the edges of gouges. Attach a V-shaped burr bit to a rotary tool such as a Dremel tool. Turn it on and hold the tip against one side of the gouge at a 45-degree angle. Move it back and forth along the sharp edge of the gouge, applying light pressure, to smooth it out.

How long does it take for gelcoat to dry?

Let the gelcoat dry for at least 8 hours to cure. Leave the repaired area to dry overnight or for at least 8 hours. This will ensure that the gelcoat is hard enough for sanding and finishing. Touch the gelcoat to make sure it is hard before you proceed to sand it.

What is gelcoat on boats?

Gelcoat is the protective coating that covers the fiberglass of boats and other watercraft. When you get a gouge or a scratch in the gelcoat of your fiberglass, you will have to clean it up by grinding or sanding before you can repair it. Then, you’ll need to buy a wax gelcoat repair kit that matches the color of your gelcoat ...

How to get scratches out of a car?

Sand with the direction of fine scratches starting with 80-grit sandpaper until the scratch is even with the area around it. Switch to 150-grit sandpaper and sand until the scratched area is evenly smooth, then switch to 240-grit sandpaper and sand it until the texture becomes even smoother and the damage is blended in to the area around it.

How to make gelcoat with peanut butter?

Pour the amounts of each part recommended by the manufacturer into a plastic or paper disposable cup. Stir it with a mixing stick for at least 1 full minute or until it is about the consistency of peanut butter. Wear gloves, safety glasses, and a face mask when you mix the gelcoat.

How to fix a spot on a car?

1. Purchase a wax gelcoat repair kit that matches the color of the damaged spot. Gelcoat repair kits come with 2 parts that you mix together right before applying it to the damaged area. Try to match the color as closely as possible or get a kit that has different pigments you can add while mixing to change the color.

How to smooth out a gouge?

Mix it in a paper cup with a few drops of hardener -- be sure to mix it well. Then get a razor and spread it out over the gouge, letting the razor ride the surface of the tape. It should look smooth. Don't play around with it -- just go over it once or twice, then leave it alone.

How to smooth down a repair?

Use a sander to smooth down the repair area. I start with 220 grit, going up to 1000 grit. It's best to use an air sander, because it provides you with more control. (You can get an inexpensive air sander from Harbor Freight.) If you don't want to go that route, you can hand-block wet sand it, however I've never liked that method.

What does PVA stand for in gel coat?

Now you have to spray PVA over the area so it will harden. PVA = Poly Vinyl Alcohol, and stops the atmosphere from attacking the gel coat. This product can be purchased online, or any at marine store.

How long does it take for PVA tape to dry?

Right after you spray the PVA, take the tape off. Do not leave it on! Carefully pull the tape off, without touching the gel coat. After letting it dry for 24 hours , wipe down the area with some water to remove the PVA. This is what it should look like.

How to use 80 grit paper?

Using 80 grit paper, rough up the surface of the gouge, being careful to not to go beyond the gouge.

Can you touch gel coat on a boat?

You do not want to touch the original gel coat finish, just the gel you put on the boat. That's why the air sander is best, because you'll be hitting all of the gel if you try to hand-sand it. Now put compound on the repair area and buff it to a nice shine. Follow with wax. Gouges out, screw holes left in. Job complete.

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 repair a fiberglass boat?

You can successfully complete basic fiberglass boat repair by following these steps.

Can you gelcoat a boat?

For these, call in a pro. Also, deep gouges may need structural fiberglass work or filler before you repair the gelcoat. On horizontal surfaces, liquid gelcoat works, but for vertical surfaces, a paste is easier to apply. The first step is identifying the finish on your boat.

Do you need to fill gouges with epoxy?

You'll need to fill deep gouges with resin and filler before applying finish. Epoxy resin and fillers adhere better than polyester products but cost more and require several extra steps prior to applying the finish color of either gelcoat or boat paint. If you choose paint, topside alkyd enamels, polyurethanes and others are available from Interlux and Pettit.

How to spread gelcoat over gouge?

Since the paste will shrink slightly as it dries, make sure you put a little extra paste on the “wound”. A slight bulge will be ideal after the paste is applied.

How to fix a gouge on a boat?

The kit will contain everything you need to do the job including some tints for matching. Some find the gouge needs to be scraped deeper with a screwdriver or Dremel tool to open it into a wide V to make sure the gelcoat has a place to settle and more permanent. If you simply cover the cracks they may continue to spread. The gelcoat that exists on the boat is already bonded with the laminates that are underneath. That being said, you will have to rough the surface up a bit with sand paper in order to give the paste something to stick to. Please note that you need to clean the surface with acetone after sanding to clean any contaminates off that may interfere with the filling process.

How to remove gelcoat from crack?

Using a Dremel tool, remove the gelcoat on either edge of the crack, all the way down its length. Basically this widens the gap and reveals the fiberglass layer beneath.

How to repair cracks in fiberglass?

If the underlying problem for the hairline cracks is not handled, re-gelcoating over them will only be a temporary fix, such as a soggy core or broken support. The cracking has stemmed from a crack below the gelcoat and in the fiberglass. This is one option to repair those cracks: 1 Using a Dremel tool, remove the gelcoat on either edge of the crack, all the way down its length. Basically this widens the gap and reveals the fiberglass layer beneath. 2 Determine if there is a crack in the fiberglass. If there is, it needs to be filled with a putty containing fiberglass strands. Duraglas Fiberglass Filler is one option. 3 Apply Gelcoat to the area. Can be brushed, rolled (using Brushable Gelcoat) or spray applied.

What is 3M Marine High Strength Repair Filler?

When the damage is a larger (like a screw hole) you made need 3M’s Preminum Marine Filler or 3M Marine High Strength Repair Filler. These are for bonding and filling repairs above or below the waterline and can be sanded. Some customers prefer to mix some thickener (cabosil) and gelcoat to a thick consistency.

Can you re-gelcoat hairline cracks?

If the underlying problem for the hairline cracks is not handled, re-gelcoating over them will only be a temporary fix , such as a soggy core or broken support. The cracking has stemmed from a crack below the gelcoat and in the fiberglass. This is one option to repair those cracks:

Can you use gelcoat putty on a deep scratch?

As long as the gelcoat around the deep scratch is in good condition, you will be able to use gelcoat putty , requires mixing MEKP catalyst -once mixed properly it can be worked with a putty knife for filling, or you can make one using gelcoat and an aerosil filler/thickener. Once the filler is applied, the service will be uneven so sanding ...