How to apply gelcoat over fiberglass boat Make sure the fiberglass is completely wetted out and you cannot see any white spots. We'll also provide some tips to make the job go smoothly. So how much does it cost to gelcoat a boat? The answer probably won't surprise you—quite a lot! Aug 28, 2023 · Fiberglass is a durable material ideal for boats, but its gelcoat can fade or oxidize over time, requiring a fresh paint job to restore its shine. Sailing is one of life’s pleasures that land lubbers will never know. 76 mm) and let the coating form a wrapper This entry was posted in Gelcoat and tagged Gelcoat for a Fiberglass Deck, Gelcoat for bathtubs, gelcoat for hot tubs, gelcoat for pool steps, Gelcoat for pools, Gelcoat for Shower Stalls, marine paint for fiberglass, Re-gelcoating a boat fiberglass hull, repairing fiberglass boat on October 19, 2021 by Marketing. Apr 10, 2021 · Ive got some gel coat and some gel coat repair kits to try and seal this up prior to me putting on a bottom coat of paint. So, whether you're a beginner or experienced DIYer, read on for all This entry was posted in Gelcoat and tagged Gelcoat for a Fiberglass Deck, Gelcoat for bathtubs, gelcoat for hot tubs, gelcoat for pool steps, Gelcoat for pools, Gelcoat for Shower Stalls, marine paint for fiberglass, Re-gelcoating a boat fiberglass hull, repairing fiberglass boat on October 19, 2021 by Marketing. Over time, exposure to the sun, impacts, or even just regular use can cause the . This is one of the questions Bottom Paint Store is asked the most. 2. Gelcoat is a resin system that is filled with colorants and thickening agents and applied to a mold surface to form the cosmetic and weathering coating of a composite part. 02 to 0. Constant UV exposure causes normal wear, but coming into a dock too fast, misplacing drill holes, or dropping a boat anchor can also cause damage that requires fiberglass gelcoat repair. Use a soft cloth and a non-abrasive cleaner to clean your boat’s Sep 25, 2024 · Gelcoat is essential to maintain your boat's look and sea-worthiness. It’s ideal for: Repairing surface scratches and chips in the existing gelcoat Restoring faded or oxidized areas Matching the boat’s original finish and color Protecting from UV damage and surface wear However, gelcoat does not bond well to epoxy or non Nov 26, 2024 · Discover everything about gelcoat, from application tips to customization with pigments, and keep your boat in pristine condition. Can I spray gelcoat over old gelcoat? Yes, you can spray gelcoat over old gelcoat, but the surface must be properly cleaned, sanded, and prepared to ensure good adhesion. Apr 19, 2022 · Over time, the fiberglass gelcoat on your boat can break down. Choose a shady location or an overcast day In this comprehensive tutorial, learn how to apply dry guide coat effectively without ruining your gelcoat job! Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional painter, mastering the technique Painting over gelcoat offers numerous advantages, such as preventing biofouling if you use anti-fouling paint and improving the general appearance of your boat. However, most people refer to gelcoat as fiberglass, so we use the terms fiberglass and gelcoat interchangeably. Sep 14, 2012 · When to Use Gelcoat Gelcoat is your best choice when the goal is cosmetic restoration of your boat’s surface—particularly fiberglass. The good news is that Nov 19, 2020 · Gelcoat putty is an indispensable part of any boat owner’s toolkit, providing a simple way to make quick and reliable repairs on any gelcoat surface. in this video How to topcoat/gelcoat a boat, im showing how i topcoated/gelcoated my boat . Find out what is gelcoat on a boat and how it is used on fiberglass boats to help you enjoy boating! Dec 28, 2023 · Gelcoat is a type of surface coating used in the fabrication of fiberglass-reinforced composites, particularly in the production of fiberglass boats, automotive parts, and other molded products. The problem with this method is getting the right amount of material misted onto the un-cured gelcoat to block the air out and in gauging just when to apply the PVA. ukPlea Filler with gelcoat works well but won't get as smooth so you often need to do a thin top coat of gelcoat after which is why alot of pros just use thickened resin to fill the deep scratches. ” These cracks form when the gelcoat—the glossy, protective layer on your boat—can’t flex as much as the fiberglass underneath. How-To POLISH GELCOAT - Shine like NEW again - DIY Pro Level Results Restore Your Gel Coat like new Gelcoat Repair- How to Fix GELCOAT DAMAGE- the RIGHT WAY! WOW! Tired, old, thin and UV damaged gelcoat can be fixed my applying new Gelcoat over the old, here is show you one way to do it on a Contessa 32. 6K 36K views 8 months ago #boat #fiberglass #gelcoat Fiber glassing over plywood is a great way to weatherproof it and make it last! With polyester resin the trick is that it has to be done RIGHT. Before the manufacturing of Aug 31, 2013 · Gelcoating over fiberglass matting Discussion in ' Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building ' started by rich99uk, Aug 31, 2013. The Science Behind Gelcoat Restoration So, what exactly is gelcoat restoration, and how does it work? Gelcoat is a special material used to provide a high-quality finish on the surface of a fiberglass boat. Jun 23, 2005 · Re: Fiberglass Curing Time You can apply the gel coat as soon as the resin is hard, if you wait more than a couple of days VE resin can surface cure even without wax and then you may not get a good bond without sanding it. Learn how with our complete guide to fiberglass gelcoat repair for your boat! HOW TO APPLY GEL COAT Below you will find a detailed gel coat preparation guide on how to properly apply gel coat to your boat, RV or other surface. Nov 18, 2013 · Getting to the point of applying your color matched gelcoat is one of the last steps in finishing off your repair (s). Today, Gelcoat is most common as a surface finisher and known for its ability to improve a product’s appearance; products such as the surface of a boat/sailboat hull. It’s like painting on window frames: […] Feb 11, 2010 · If you own a boat, you may know that it is important to give your boat a gelcoat cover to help protect it from leaks and cracks. Aug 31, 2022 · Good news is that many boats can be restored to their factory-new shine by simply compounding and waxing the existing gel coat. how to fix chipped gelcoat, how to restore gelcoat on fiberglass boat, prepping fiberglass for Sep 4, 2022 · How to care for boat gelcoat: tips for keeping your boat’s gelcoat looking new Boat gelcoat is a specialized coating used to protect the fiberglass surface of a boat from the elements. 9. Whether you're working on boats Sep 15, 2022 · How to Apply Gelcoat by Brush and Roller Professional Grade Exterior Gelcoat can be applied either by Spraying, Brushing or Rolling. An alternative to that is to tape a piece of wax paper around the entire gelcoat repair so air doesn't get to it. Today I am showing GELCOAT and FIBERGLASS HOW-TO- Repair EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW to fix gel coat damage on a boat Fish Bump TV 115K subscribers Subscribe May 29, 2012 · Re: Metal Flake Help? how to do metalflake gelcoat also, can i seal, prime, and paint the boat, then use clear gel coat w/metal flake over the paint? will gel coat adhere to paint? My family has been building and restoring boats for over 5 decades, and we specialize in fiberglass and gel coat repair. Apr 26, 2014 · 8. Discover how to ensure a successful, long-lasting transformation while protecting against UV In this video, you'll learn how to spray gelcoat perfectly every time. How to Apply Gelcoat to Your Boat To maintain the look and sea-worthiness of your ship, Gelcoat is necessary. Mar 18, 2025 · Invest in premium gelcoat, catalysts (typically MEKP), and thinners or additives recommended by your chosen gelcoat manufacturer. If you want to paint over gelcoat, some paints may require you to apply a primer first. Learn about preparation steps like cleaning and sanding, the best paint options, and maintenance tips to preserve your new finish. Nov 2, 2023 · Next, take a paintbrush and apply a layer of resin on the surface. This gelcoat application method is the most cost effective for the DIY'er I highly recommend you use two coats of Gelcoat without wax and one final coat of the gel with wax. Composite parts are generally made in a female mold. Sep 30, 2010 · Re: Can fiberglass be safely laminated to gel coat? You can glue to gel coat with epoxy putty just fine, but the strength of the joint that holds your part on is limited to the strength of the bond between the gel coat and what's underneath it (the epoxy is grabbing the gel coat, not the fiberglass). <br /><br />If the repairs are hard you can put the motor on. Gel coat is typically the first layer of a part to be applied. Gather materials and tools Jul 25, 2025 · Most boats are made using gel coat with polyester resin and fiberglass. Jan 27, 2005 · Spraying gelcoat over gelcoat Discussion in ' Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building ' started by alexhiguera, Jan 27, 2005. Learn to fix scratches, chips, and cracks for a flawless, professional finish that protects your investment. Before we start the spraying process, it’s important to know why you would choose gel coat over paint for your boat so you don’t get confused. What Is Gelcoat? Gelcoat is an epoxy or polyester resin-based thermoset polymer that is You can apply gelcoat over existing gelcoat without priming first. Eventually, however, it will grow dull again, and as time marches on, it gets 113K subscribers Subscribed 1. I go over some of the standard practices that pros use to get excellent results with e An alternative to using surfacing wax in the gelcoat mix is to over spray the gelcoat with PVA, (polyvinyl alchol). co. This article will discuss how to apply the gelcoat with the brush and roller method. The secret is to apply Gelcoat in liquid form over the fiberglass surface in a thin layer from 0. Jan 18, 2024 · Fiberglass and gel coat are used in a wide range of applications, from boats and cars to RVs and bathtubs. Whether you’re restoring a faded hull or fixing deeper structural damage, the same core methods apply to other Aug 11, 2024 · Part 12 of the series: In this comprehensive tutorial, we take you through the final steps of applying gelcoat on a hardtop. Gelcoat is a resin that will protect any fiberglass structure with a strong shield. May 23, 2024 · Introduction To Gel Coat Gel coat is a protective layer applied to fiberglass surfaces, but can you paint over it? Yes, you can paint over gel coat by following the proper preparation steps, such as sanding and cleaning the surface, before applying the paint. Spread a thick layer of gel coat paste to fill the repair depth. Spread the loveIntroduction: Gelcoating is an essential process for maintaining and repairing fiberglass surfaces, such as boats, yachts, and RVs. Complaints of auto filler used on boats comes from most auto filler containing talc, which is reported to absorb water over time. Do not work in direct sunlight. Apr 19, 2022 · Damage to your boat's exterior needs to be repaired quickly and effectively. Dec 24, 2024 · Wondering if you can paint over gelcoat on boats or fiberglass surfaces? This comprehensive guide reveals effective techniques to enhance your watercraft’s appearance. Should I add the wax to the polyester resin then let it cure before gelcoating? Or should I not wax it, let it be tacky then apply gelcoat? The gelcoat and resin are both polyester. This video goes over application tips and techniques for using a standard spray gun. Put a piece of plastic film or wax paper over the repair job to keep out any dust or grit. With the success of my original how to apply gelcoat video, I still get asked "How do you roll and tip gelcoat" You asked for it so here it is! In the original video I showed you how to apply HOW-TO COLOR MATCH and REPAIR GELCOAT DAMAGE! DIY GELCOAT REPAIR Apply and Refinish New Gelcoat over old on a Contessa 32 (ReGelcoating 101) In part 9 of the how to build a mold series we Spray the first coats of gelcoat and fiberglass on our custom hardtop for our 29-foot center console charter boat. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. See how you can finish the Gelcoat Jul 28, 2025 · This comprehensive guide will unravel the mystery behind gelcoat restoration, its advantages and disadvantages, costs, and common methods of application. It provides the color and glossy shine to a boat while protecting the fiberglass beneath it. I am happy to show You some of the techniques we use to bring back a deep May 24, 2010 · Re: bondo and gelcoat In place of bondo type fillers, regular poly resin can be mixed with thickening fibers and/or milled fiberglass to make a putty that will not absorb water. If you plan to regelcoat your boat I hope you like In this video, I will be teaching you how to apply Fiberglass and polyester resin over plywood and protecting it with Gelcoat. If you want to apply gelcoat over paint, you also have to prime first, or if there is gelcoat under the paint, remove any coatings to expose the old gelcoat before applying new gelcoat. These steps are Crucial in Aug 16, 2021 · New gelcoat finishes project a radiate shine, but over years that new-boat gloss can grow dull and chalky. Mar 20, 2024 · Gelcoat is a thermosetting polymer that consists of polyether resin or epoxy resin. Over time, weather fades the paint and it starts to flake and fade. If you own a boat, at some point you are going to need to do some gelcoat repair. That is ok, because this video will help you get the color match right! Gel Part 1 of this video can be found here? • GELCOAT and FIBERGLASS HOW-TO- Repair EVE GelCoat Repair, PART 2. 5 days ago · Learn expert techniques for fiberglass gelcoat finishing to achieve a flawless paint job. The application process is slightly different for each use but hopefully this guide will give you a good idea of what needs to be done when working with gel coat. We found his recent Gelcoat video to be very helpful, as we are very familiar with the questions and mysteries that come with using and applying Gelcoat. May 27, 2025 · When to Use Gelcoat Gelcoat is your best choice when the goal is cosmetic restoration of your boat’s surface—particularly fiberglass. While these imperfections might seem minor, they can expose the underlying fiberglass to water damage and compromise the structural integrity of your item. Correct application of gelcoat is critical to get the optimum performance from it. An alternative to wax is to put a film of PVA (Poly Vinyl Alcohol) to let the gel coat cure. This guide provides a step-by-step process for painting a fiberglass boat, focusing on preparation, application, and maintenance. Jun 4, 2004 · For fiberglass boats, gelcoat must be used as it is the mold release agent, along with a good waxing of the mold itself, so might as well color it and pop out the finished product and save a step. Your I am in the process of fiber glassing my boat deck. It provides a glossy, durable finish that protects the fiberglass underneath from water, UV light, and other environmental damage. Let’s start with explaining that gelcoat is not a paint but a type of resin that is used to provide a protective layer over fiberglass. For a more comprehensive guide on How to Apply Gelcoat, please read this article. These affiliate relationships do not affect our reviews or opinions expressed on this channel. It can serve as a topcoat applied to the fiberglass boat’s surface, and almost all modern vessels with this hull type have this gel coating. This will allow it to fully cure. It’s ideal for: Repairing surface scratches and chips in the existing gelcoat Restoring faded or oxidized areas Matching the boat’s original finish and color Protecting from UV damage and surface wear However, gelcoat does not bond well to epoxy or non Sep 3, 2024 · FAQs 1. However, for very small cosmetic gelcoat repairs, epoxy can be used, then finished with gelcoat, as long a Feb 11, 2022 · Will from Hold Fast Marine has been working hard on creating helpful content for DIY boaters. In this guide, you will learn how to spray gelcoat on your boat like a pro. Gelcoat available with and without wax for boat building and repairs. It is a pigmented, resin-based material that provides a smooth and durable finish to the surface of the composite material. Choose a shady location or an overcast day May 13, 2025 · Gelcoat is the protective coating that covers the fiberglass of boats and other watercraft. Dec 17, 2024 · Gelcoat is a liquid that hardens to form a thick layer that's used to protect fiberglass and give it a shiny, smooth finish. Looking down the road a year or two I'd like to get the gel coat redone or else have it painted. Oct 28, 2022 · If the gelcoat can't be saved, do you replace the gelcoat? Or do you opt for painting? Here's all you need to know about replacing or painting over gelcoat! For boat owners, it’s experiential – from buying or building a boat to applying gel coat to refurbishing and maintaining it to make it seaworthy. How do I get a smooth finish on gelcoat? To achieve a smooth finish, apply multiple thin layers, wet sand between layers, and finish with buffing and polishing. In this video I show how to apply the gelcoat over a semi set layer of fiberglass and polyester resin ( of course its totalboat stuff ) Here I use a roller and a cheap chip brush. Cover with mylar and smooth over it to conform with surrounding surface – use a small squeegee or piece of cardboard to smooth over the mylar. All materials seen are available for purchase at www. Perfect for fixing anything from spider cracks to fill in gouges and scratches, and is an easy-to-use solution that leaves a smooth finish and every application has the potential to restore gelcoat surfaces and make them look like new again Jan 18, 2024 · What Are Gelcoat Stress Cracks? Gelcoat stress cracks are thin, superficial lines that appear on a boat’s surface. But in this article, we’re focusing specifically on how these materials function in boats —how they’re used, how they wear, and how to properly maintain and repair them. In this episode we turn faded / sun burnt gelcoat into "like new" through a simple process of wetsanding and polishing/buffing ! This is great for spot repa Hi all . Whether you're a seasoned boat enthusiast or a first-time DIYer, this TotalBoat Gelcoat is a type of polyester resin, and as such, is not compatible over epoxy. Jun 17, 2020 · As every boat owner knows, even sturdy fiberglass boats are prone to damage from a poor landing, dropped fishing equipment, or a misplaced drill hole. It's like the paint on window frames. Jan 5, 2011 · This is one of the questions Bottom Paint Store is asked the most. In the video I mentioned that there were 2 common ways to do this; spraying or brushing. Over time, gelcoat can become damaged from scratches, chips, cracks, and fading. Eventually, the rain soaks into the wood and begins to rot the frames. In this video, we will be sharing over 100 tips and tricks for working with fiberglass. The Born Again Boating American Fade Hooded Fishing Shirt! Look great while on land, on the water, or just hanging out with the seafoam faded long sleeve shirt that comes with an awesome blue Instead of wax or waxed gel coat use laminating resin. Applying gelcoat to fiberglass is simple if you have the right tools and take care to mix your gelcoat properly. This resin will help protect water from seeping Once you have fiber glassed over your plywood, you NEED to seal it with gelcoat! Gelcoat not only makes your fiber glass work look better, it seals and creates a water barrier for your raw Fiber May 27, 2022 · Gel coat has many uses including mold construction, manufactured parts, cosmetic gel coat repairs and yacht/boat construction. Gelcoat doesn’t provide any structural integrity to a boat, and is strictly there for cosmetic and protective purposes. It washes off with water so easy to use. In this the 20th episode of Building the explorer we will be rolling and some Tipping the final Top Coat (Waxed Coat) of Gelcoat on the fiberglass of the boat. Look for established marine brands known for durability, UV stability, and ease of application. Fortunately, you can patch up most minor problem areas with the right approach and supplies. For over 50 years Fiberglass Coatings has been an industry leader in resin and coatings. Remove mylar - wet-sand, compound, polish and wax as needed to complete the Gelcoat Damage is a problem most boat owners face, ESPECIALLY to Your Hull bottom! Rocks, oysters, stumps and even repeated launching and loading can cause damage and excessive wear to your boats Jun 11, 2019 · The purpose of the wax is to create a barrier between the gelcoat and the oxygen in the air so the gelcoat can fully cure. 1. Boat owners know the importance of protecting their boats against the elements. Fortunately, with the right tools most anyone can conduct this process, allowing you to save money from hiring a professional to do it. . But if the relatively soft surface has deteriorated and worn away, you'll need to either paint or re-Gelcoat the boat. Gelcoat is not only a nice resin that makes the vessel look nice; it protects the surface of the fiberglass and serves as a barrier to the absorption of water. Key takeaways on how to apply gelcoat: Clean the repair area and all tools with acetone prior to application. They’re often called “ spider cracks ” or “crazing. Place the fiberglass over it and make sure it's in the right position. 3. Follow our step-by-step guide with surface prep tips and application techniques. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just starting out, you are sure to find some valuable insights in Jan 10, 2025 · Gelcoat is the tough, shiny outer layer that gives boats, jet skis, bathtubs, and other fiberglass products their color and protection. The outer surface of a fiberglass manufactured boat is usually coated with a special resin called Gelcoat. Leave mylar on until gelcoat is completely cured! 10. In this video I will show you how we have been gel coating over fiber glass for years in our families Boat shop. In this complete guide to fiberglass gelcoat repair For the most part, when you're looking at a fiberglass boat, you're really seeing the gelcoat surface on top of the fiberglass itself. Personally, I have never seen it happen Another video from our GRP Quicktips Series - How to brush apply gelcoat. It is important to keep your boat’s gelcoat looking new by following some simple tips. Use it to fill the void and gel coat over it. Mar 18, 2024 · Gelcoat, known for its protective properties and glossy finish, is a common choice for boat hulls and recreational vehicles. Our Low Emissions gel coat would be applied to a prepared mold surface and then backed with layers of reinforcement (usually fiberglass) and additional resin. 03 inches (0. 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. What is Gelcoat and How to Restore It Gelcoat is the outermost surface of a fiberglass boat. Use the paintbrush, short knap roller, fiberglass roller, squeegee and/or spreader to saturate the fiberglass with resin. Sep 8, 2025 · Master DIY gelcoat repair for boats with our guide. Now that you have used the wax, you have to sand between coats to remove the wax before applying another layer. i have found lots of good information on how to apply gelcoat over existing gel coat but i cant seem to find any information on what to do if the gelcoat is completely gone and im just applying gelcoat to exposed glass. Nov 11, 2014 · wanting to apply new gel coat over old gel coat Discussion in ' Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building ' started by midcap, Nov 11, 2014. One way is applying gel coat to your boat. However, over time, exposure to sun and weather can take a toll on its appearance, leading many to ask the question: “Can you paint over gelcoat?” This article aims to explore that question in depth, examining the considerations, steps, and potential pitfalls of How to Roll Gel Coat on a boat • How to easily roll Gelcoat on a boat Fiberglass repairs • Fiberglass Hull Repair: Easy Fix for Thru Check out our other DIY projects. Polishing helps bring back the luster, and applying quality marine wax products help protect it from fading. Choose a shady location or an overcast day Feb 2, 2024 · Are you looking to give your boat a fresh, shiny new finish? Spraying gelcoat is a great way to restore the appearance of your vessel. Wet Sanding, Polishing, and Waxing to a like New Factory Finish. I am going to show you how to get professional Gelcoat and Fiberglass repair can seem intimidating if you have never done it before. Here's a basic overview of gelcoat and its usage: Composition: Gelcoat is Discover the unique benefits of combining Gelcoat and Epoxy, including enhanced durability, improved finish, and versatility for a variety of applications. Nov 13, 2023 · Gelcoat on fiberglass boats serves a valuable function. ecfibreglasssupplies. Here, we’ll walk you through the 12 steps to apply gelcoat to your fiberglass surface. i hope this helps with any jobs you have coming up . If you don't use gelcoat with wax, then you'll need to spray or brush on some PVA over the gelcoat after it sets up. Feb 15, 2021 · Boats are usually manufactured with either one of two materials; fiberglass or aluminum. Start your next project today! It is not hard to work with gelcoat, you just need to understand the basics. Luckily, scratches and holes in the gelcoat that gives your boat its glossy appearance can be repaired with a little patience and the correct technique. 51 – 0. Perfect for boats, cars, and more! It doesn't have to be! I will show you the TIPS and TRICKS, along with gelcoat HACKS that we use in our Boat building and boat repair business to get professional level results time after time. Over time, this gelcoat can become Jan 7, 2023 · Hi all, I have a 1984 Islander Bahama 30 that has the original gel coat. Oct 19, 2022 · Are you a DIYer who is looking to fix up your boat? Applying gelcoat may be the project for you! In this blog post, we will walk you through the 10 steps necessary to apply gelcoat to your boat. Jan 19, 2025 · Learn how to properly prepare and apply gel coat on your boat for a smooth finish. Gelcoat isn't just a pretty resin that makes the vessel look nice; it protects the fiberglass surface and acts as a barrier to water absorption. Today I am showing you how to do a commercial grade Gelcoat repair in full detail. TotalBoat ISO/NPG neutral and white marine gelcoats compatible with coloring agents. Details: Gel coat is a formula Mar 20, 2024 · If the crack is deeper, use a mixture of fiberglass filler and fiberglass hardener before finishing off with gel coat paste on top. vtnle bje cdqtbda spkcvozep rew jxtciy ydcyfr lmb mrjtxdqy nvpcz lrjbn hsnt gurhky pckikl fqyyoxzd