How to use color and application of polyester gel-coat?

Question

I bought a used boat. it has 1/4 inch gash along the side of the boat. I was told I could fix it myself but don't know what I need to get from the marine store. Do I need a kit and the gelcoat or is the gelcoat already a neutral off white color?

Answer 1

You have a major job on your hands.  You can't do this job yourself.  It will look like you did it yourself.  Have it done

professionally and you will be happier.  If not, you  will need to fill the gash with marine putty, sand smooth, prime, and sand again and prime, again, until absolutely smooth, no holes or lines etc.  Then prime it, sand it, again. Wipe it down, get rid of all the dust and dirt.   Match the color.  Test it in a spot on the boat to match the color.   You will need to spray the gelcoat on.  You will need to mix the hardener into the gelcoat before spraying it on.  You will need to work fast, because the hardener will set up quickly.  You need to sand between coats.  Apply several  thin coats.  This has to be done in a dustless environment in order to come out right.  Very hard to do.  The gelcoat will spray all over everything.  Do not spray near the house, cars, or other peoples boats,cars, or houses.  The overspray will carry for a long distance.  You will be responsible for the damage from the overspray.  Be careful.   Not the type of job you can do at home.  My advice, I would fill it with putty and then put a fancy decal along the side of the boat to cover it.  Less work and it will  last for years.  Good Luck.

Answer 2

Putzes. Way to freak out a guy!   Look ...the repair is easy...use epoxy and glass cloth...I recommend West System. That fills the gash. The Gelcoat repair is the hardest...the colour match that is to say...You need to sand away some of your repair so it is below the surrounding area. Meaning you need room for gelcoat. You might consider a sticker or graphic for a patch.

For gelcoat...get a colour wheel online to help mix to your colour. Use a pre-waxed gelcoat for ease of use. You can also search online for suppliers....Minicraft in Florida comes to mind. They have a spray bomb gelcoat patch that they will mix for your model by it's serial number. Simple stuff bud.

Wear a mask and decent gloves. Good luck.

Answer 3

If this 1/4 inch gash is 1/4 inch deep you should not try to fix it yourself unless you are a skilled fibreglass tradesman. That depth of gash is structural and would require repair by someone with suitable fibreglass skills. If you are asking this question then you definately don't have these skills. Do not risk your boat with substandard repairs.