Helena Frye
Clear coating a fiberglass bass boat is a process that can restore its shine and protect it from the sun, dirt, and water damage. The process involves cleaning the surface of the boat, applying a clear coat, and then polishing and buffing the coat to achieve a glossy finish. However, it is important to note that different types of clear coats are available, and some may not be suitable for application below the waterline or for boats that are left in the water for extended periods. Additionally, improper application can lead to unsightly results, such as peeling or discoloration.
How to Clear Coat a Fiberglass Bass Boat
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to use a clear coat | When the fiberglass bass boat has small nicks and repairs, or when the colour is fading and turning yellow |
| Preparation | Remove all items from the boat, including the motor, upholstered seats, panels, deck coverings, instrumentation, handrails, and wood items |
| Cleaning | Use a concentrated water-based cleaning solution like KBS Klean, diluted with 10 parts warm water to one part cleaner. Spray and scrub the surface thoroughly, then rinse with fresh water and let it dry |
| Application method | Brushing, rolling, or spraying. For spraying, use a siphon/pot gun (25 to 35 psi) or gravity/top container gun (35 to 45 psi) |
| Product | DiamondFinish Clear from KBS Coatings is recommended. It can be applied directly or thinned with KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene |
| Number of coats | Two thin coats are recommended |
| Timing between coats | 2 to 6 hours |
| Touch-cure time | 2 to 3 hours, depending on humidity levels |
| Full cure time | 7 days under normal conditions, and it will continue to harden over several weeks |
| Post-application care | Keep boat covers off the finish until it is fully cured. Once hardened, it can be wet-sanded with 1000-1200 grit wet-dry sandpaper to minimize imperfections |
| UV protection | Use a synthetic boat polish with good UV protection and polish the finish regularly |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the fiberglass bass boat for the clear coat
Remove Contaminants and Clean the Surface:
Start by removing any contaminants from the boat's surface. This includes grease, oil, grime, scum, and residual wax. Use a concentrated water-based cleaning solution like KBS Klean, diluted with 10 parts warm water to one part KBS Klean. Spray the solution generously onto the surface and scrub thoroughly with a scouring pad. Ensure that you continuously wet the working area with the diluted cleaning solution as you scrub. Rinse the surface with fresh water afterward and let it dry. The surface should have a dull finish after cleaning.
Lightly Scuff the Surface:
Once the surface is clean and dry, lightly scuff it to ensure strong adhesion of the clear coat. Use a scouring pad or a scuff pad to create a slightly rough texture. This step is important to help the clear coat adhere properly and create a durable finish.
Remove Interior Elements:
Before you begin the clear coating process, it's best to remove as many interior elements as possible. This includes upholstered seats, panels, snap-in deck coverings, instrumentation, handrails, teak or other wood items, and any other removable items. By doing so, you can prevent accidentally getting clear coat on these items and make the process easier.
Choose a Suitable Clear Coat Product:
Select a high-quality clear coat product specifically designed for fiberglass boats. Options like DiamondFinish Clear from KBS Coatings or Imron clear by Dupont are popular choices. Consider the application method (brushing, rolling, or spraying) and follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper preparation and application techniques.
Prepare the Clear Coat Material:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for preparing the clear coat material. For example, with DiamondFinish Clear, avoid shaking the can to prevent air bubbles. Instead, pour the material into a steel or glass container while wearing protective gloves and eyewear. Thin the clear coat with KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene, following the recommended ratios and temperatures for thinning. Stir the mixture thoroughly and frequently to ensure a consistent consistency.
By following these steps, you'll have a well-prepared fiberglass bass boat that's ready for the clear coat application, ensuring a smooth and durable finish.
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Applying the clear coat
When applying a clear coat to a fiberglass bass boat, it's important to prepare the surface thoroughly to ensure strong adhesion and a smooth finish. Start by removing any elements that could get in the way, such as upholstered seats, panels, deck coverings, handrails, and wood items.
Next, clean the surface to remove any contaminants such as grease, oil, grime, scum, or residual wax. Use a water-based cleaning solution like KBS Klean, diluted with warm water, and apply it generously with a spray bottle. Scrub the surface thoroughly with a scouring pad, ensuring that the working area remains wet with the cleaning solution. Then, rinse with fresh water and let the surface dry. The surface should have a dull finish after cleaning.
Before applying the clear coat, it's crucial to choose the right product and application method. DiamondFinish Clear from KBS Coatings is a popular choice, as it can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed. If spraying, use a siphon/pot gun (25 to 35 psi) or a gravity/top container gun (35 to 45 psi) with a 1.4 to 1.5 nozzle. Thin the mixture with one part KBS #1 Thinner or Xylene to 10 parts DiamondFinish Clear.
When applying the clear coat, it is recommended to do two thin coats. Apply the second coat 2 to 6 hours after the first. Avoid applying the clear coat in windy, humid, or rainy conditions, as blowing dust and debris can stick to the wet coating and affect the final result. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.
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Avoiding common mistakes
To avoid common mistakes when applying a clear coat to a fiberglass bass boat, there are several key steps to follow. Firstly, it is essential to prepare the boat's surface by removing any contaminants such as grease, oil, grime, scum, or residual wax. Use a dedicated cleaning solution like KBS Klean, diluted with warm water, and scrub thoroughly with a scouring pad. Rinse with fresh water and let the surface dry, which should result in a dull finish. This step ensures strong adhesion for the clear coat.
Secondly, before applying the clear coat, it is crucial to choose the right environmental conditions. Avoid applying the coat when it is breezy, as blowing dust and debris can stick to the wet coating and ruin the finish. Similarly, refrain from application in high humidity or rainy weather. These conditions can affect the curing process and lead to unsatisfactory results.
Thirdly, when using a product like DiamondFinish Clear, follow the manufacturer's recommendations for application. For instance, KBS recommends a specific nozzle size and thinning ratio for their product when applied with a spray gun. Applying two thin coats, with the second coat 2 to 6 hours after the first, is also advised.
Additionally, for a thorough job, remove as many elements as possible from the boat before starting. This includes items like upholstered seats, panels, deck coverings, instrumentation, handrails, and wood items. This step helps prevent accidentally getting the clear coat on these items.
Finally, once the clear coat is applied, allow it to cure completely. The average touch-cure time is 2 to 3 hours, but it requires another 7 days for a full cure under normal conditions. During this period, keep boat covers off the finish, as the fabric can mar the finish. After the clear coat has completely hardened, you can perform wet-sanding to minimize any imperfections.
Additionally, it is important to note that if you are using Imron clear by Dupont, it is recommended to not submerge the boat in water for extended periods as it may cause blistering.
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Removing the clear coat
Firstly, it is essential to prepare the work area and protect the boat's surface. Set up adequate ventilation in the work area, as the chemicals used in the process emit strong odours. It is also recommended to wear protective gear, such as heavy-duty gloves and a respirator. The respirator is crucial as inhaling clear coat remover can irritate the nose and throat linings.
Next, remove all hardware, motors, decals, and other elements from the boat. This step is crucial as the clear coat remover can damage certain materials, such as rubber. Once the boat is prepared, it is time to apply the clear coat remover. Using a paintbrush, carefully apply the remover to the surface of the fiberglass, following the manufacturer's instructions for application and reaction time. The clear coat will start to bubble and pull away from the fiberglass.
After the reaction time has passed, use a spray hose to wash away the dissolved clear coat. Wipe away any excess with a clean towel. If there is any remaining clear coat, reapply the remover, let it react, and spray away the residue. For stubborn areas, use a green scuff pad to help remove the finish.
Finally, once all the clear coat has been removed, thoroughly clean the boat's surface. It is important to note that the boat's surface may now be more susceptible to damage, so take extra care until the new coat is applied.
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Maintaining the clear coat
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
Start by regularly cleaning your boat with a mild soap and fresh water. Rinse thoroughly to remove any salt, dirt, or grime buildup. Pay close attention to areas that are prone to scum accumulation, such as the waterline and areas around fittings. Regular cleaning will prevent the buildup of contaminants that can damage the clear coat over time.
Additionally, inspect the clear coat periodically for any signs of deterioration or damage. Look out for fading, oxidation, or small imperfections like dimpling, scratches, or drips. Catching these issues early will make them easier to address.
Use Recommended Products
When cleaning and maintaining your boat's clear coat, always use products specifically designed for this purpose. For example, KBS Klean is a recommended water-based cleaning solution that can effectively remove contaminants like grease, oil, and grime. Dilute it with warm water and apply it generously to the boat's surface before scrubbing with a scouring pad.
Buffing and Polishing
If you notice any minor scratches or dull spots on the clear coat, buffing and polishing can help restore its shine. Use a high-quality boat buffing compound and a soft cloth or buffing pad to work on the affected areas gently. Follow up with a good boat wax to fill in any micro-scratches and enhance the coat's protective properties.
Consider Professional Maintenance
For more advanced restoration techniques and to ensure optimal condition, consider engaging professional yacht management services. These professionals have the expertise and experience to identify early signs of deterioration and implement advanced techniques to elevate your boat's appearance and protection.
Protect from UV Rays
UV rays from the sun can be particularly damaging to fiberglass boats, causing oxidation, fading, and deterioration of the gel coat. When choosing a clear coat, opt for one with excellent UV protection to shield your boat from these harmful rays and preserve its structural integrity.
By following these maintenance instructions, you can effectively maintain the clear coat on your fiberglass bass boat, ensuring its longevity, aesthetic appeal, and protection from the marine environment.
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Frequently asked questions
DiamondFinish Clear from KBS Coatings is a popular choice for clear coating a fiberglass boat. It can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed, and it creates a glossy, super-hard, and non-yellowing finish.
It is important to remove any contaminants such as grease, oil, grime, scum, or residual wax from the surface of your boat. You can use a product like KBS Klean, a concentrated water-based cleaning solution, to thoroughly clean the surface. Once the surface is clean, lightly scuff it to ensure strong adhesion of the clear coat.
Avoid applying the clear coat in windy, rainy, or high-humidity conditions. Blowing dust and debris can stick to the wet coating, leading to unsatisfactory results. It is also recommended to remove as many elements as possible from the boat, such as upholstered seats, panels, instrumentation, and handrails, to prevent accidentally getting clear coat on them.
Yes, you can clear coat the bottom of your boat; however, it is important to note that if you leave the boat in the water for extended periods, it may blister. The preparation for the bottom of the boat is also different, as it will need to be sanded first to create a good surface for the clear coat to adhere to.
