The Mystery Of Gelcoat Repair Explained

<<>>The outer layers of polyester resin can be up to two centimeters thick. Gelcoat repair is a matter that needs a few tools and concentration - nothing more.

From scratches to impact holes, the malleable qualities of resin offer themselves to make good any damage. Boat owners apprehension about this kind of work is understandable, having a knowledge of the materials involved lessens the apprehension.

Scratches

It is best to identify how deep a scratch is before filling it with putty or paste. Opening the scratch to allow work to begin. Resin does not have the necessary flow characteristics to fill narrow scratches. Once the work area is enlarged, the job is simplified. As the resin cures it will receed. Leaving a gentle bump where the scratch was. This can be easily sanded and buffered after curing is complete.

Holes and More

Use polyester resin thickened with chopped glass fibers to layer up any laminate damage below the outer layer. If the damage is extensive, then use sheets of laminate rather than thickened resin - it's quicker and reinforces the structure too.

A fix kit come as resin or paste/putty. Paste is best on scratches, whilst resin in the form of laminate sheets is used on more extensive damage. Pigments have to be used, in order for a proper color match with the surrounding areas.

Within a kit there is usually a standard range of pigments. These can be mixed to match, or an individual pigment can be brought. Use pigment sparingly and mix thoroughly before application.

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