What is marine gelcoat?
Gelcoat is the coating sprayed up against a highly polished mold at the beginning of the fiberglass layup process. This process results in the smooth, mirror-like finish typical of new boats. With the passage of time, unprotected gelcoat will oxidize and eventually take on a chalky appearance.
How long does marine gelcoat last?
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.
Are there different types of gelcoat?
Gel coat is available as an epoxy gel coat on an epoxy resin basis and as a polyester gel coat on a polyester resin basis. A further valuable property of gelcoat is that in the cured state, no sanding is necessary before applying additional layers.
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.
How long will gelcoat last?
Typically the shelf life of gel coat is around 3-4 months at around 70 degrees. For every 10 degrees higher, the life is generally cut in half. You can refrigerate it to make it last a little longer, but you need to warm it up before you can use it. Fresh catalyst or hardener is a must as airwear said.
Why do boats use gelcoat instead of paint?
Gelcoat is formulated to be UV protective and stable against harmful chemical reactions. Yacht hulls are often exposed to several chemical vapors, so this stability is an advantage. Gelcoat finish is known for its long-lasting durability.
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.
What is the difference between epoxy and gelcoat?
When the repair will be finished with gelcoat, the laminating or filling needs to be done with polyester. While epoxy adheres tenaciously to cured polyester, the reverse is not true, so the bond between an epoxy repair and an overcoat of polyester gelcoat will not be strong.
How thick is the 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.
Is fiberglass waterproof without gelcoat?
Fiberglass becomes waterproof once resin is applied and has cured. Once resin is applied and it has dried then the fiberglass is completely waterproof, in fact boats are routinely made from it. The resin used will typically be one of polyester resin, epoxy or vinylester.
How do you store gelcoat?
Proper storage is necessary to ensure the best performance of the gelcoat. Gelcoat should be stored between 70 and 85° Fahrenheit (F). Do not store gelcoat in direct sunlight as this can cause the material to degrade faster due to excessive heat. Follow “First-In, First-Out” stock rotation.
What is the best wax for gel coat?
The best wax to use for restoring your gelcoat is marine wax. It’s specifically designed for use on boats and it’s waterproof. You can also use car wax, as long as it’s hard shell wax. Use a cloth if you’re applying the wax by hand. Use a foam pad if you’re applying the wax with a buffer.
How do you restore a gel coat on a boat?
Applying Wax to Restore the Gelcoat Wear protective gear. Pour some wax onto a soft cloth or foam pad. Use a cloth to apply the wax by hand. Use a buffer for large jobs. Let the wax dry. Move along the boat in sections. Repeat the waxing if your boat still looks dull.
How do you use gel coat?
You can apply gel coat with a brush if you are building a fiberglass project in a mold. First you would apply a release agent to the mold, then brush on the gel coat. You can wait 24 hours or continue building your project immediately, the gel coat will not cure until it is sealed in the mold by your fiberglass layers.
How do you paint gel coat?
Paint the surface by dipping your roller or brush into the gel coat and applying the gel coat to the surface. Gel coat is relatively thick and should cover in one to two coats. Clean the brushes and rollers with acetone when you are done applying the gel coat. Fill the spray gun with the catalyzed gel coat and apply the first coat in a heavy mist.