Best Gelcoat Options For Boat Exteriors

Choosing the right coating for your boat is essential to ensure its longevity and maintain its aesthetic appeal. Two of the most commonly used coatings for boats are gelcoat and boat paint. This article will focus on gelcoat and discuss what the best type is for boat exteriors.

Gelcoat is a protective layer that is applied directly to the boat's fiberglass and is known for its durability and resistance to water, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions. It is typically made of thick polyester resin or epoxy and has a glossy finish that can be polished. While gelcoat can scratch and crack if not maintained properly, it is generally more durable and long-lasting than boat paint.

When it comes to choosing the best gelcoat for boat exteriors, there are several factors to consider, such as colour, compatibility with the boat's surface, and ease of application. It is also important to note that gelcoat is typically more suitable for composite materials like fiberglass and may not adhere well to other surfaces like aluminium.

One popular option for boat exteriors is the TotalBoat-14409 Marine Gelcoat, which is designed for boat building, repair, and composite coatings. Another option is the Fiberglass Supply Depot Gel Coat, which is a durable and safe choice for repairs and composite coatings.

In conclusion, when selecting the best gelcoat for your boat's exterior, it is important to consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consulting with a professional boat service provider can help you make the right decision and ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of your vessel.

Gelcoat vs Boat Paint

When it comes to boat repair and maintenance, choosing the right coating is crucial to ensure the longevity and aesthetics of your vessel. While most new boats come with gel coating, you have two options when it comes to repairing or restoring your boat's exterior: re-painting or re-applying gel coat. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand the differences between gel coat and boat paint to make an informed decision.

Gel Coat

Gel coat is a resin-based finishing material that is applied directly to the boat's fiberglass during the manufacturing process. It serves as a protective layer, shielding the boat from scratches, water stains, and other minor damage, while also providing a shiny exterior. The resin used in gel coats is naturally water-repellent and resistant to UV light and harmful chemicals such as gasoline, kerosene, and denatured alcohol.

Gel coat is typically applied in a thick layer, ranging from 0.5 mm to 1 mm in thickness, and dries to form a hard, shell-like casing over the fiberglass. This thickness gives gel coat its durability, allowing it to last for up to two decades with proper care and maintenance. However, gel coat is more porous than paint, making it susceptible to dust, dirt, and stains, which can lead to fading and loss of shine over time.

Repairing gel coat can be challenging and may require excellent skills for severe damage. The repair process involves sanding the damaged area, filling in any cracks or holes, and reapplying the gel coat. While gel coat repairs can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars, they offer a seamless finish that blends into the fiberglass, hiding minor imperfections.

Boat Paint

Boat paint, on the other hand, is a urethane paint specifically formulated for use on boats. It offers more flexibility in terms of colours and finish, allowing boat owners to customise their vessels with graphics and details. Marine paint dries quickly and is generally easier to apply and maintain than gel coat, making it a popular choice for DIY repairs.

However, boat paint is less durable than gel coat. It may require repainting every five to ten years, depending on the quality of the paint and the maintenance of the vessel. Painted hulls are more vulnerable to chipping and cracking due to their thinner layer and lack of chemical stability.

Boat paint is also more expensive than gel coat, both in terms of the paint itself and the overall application process. Repainting a boat typically involves multiple thin layers of paint, each followed by washing and sanding, making it a time-consuming and labour-intensive process.

In summary, gel coat offers superior protection, durability, and resistance to the elements, while boat paint provides more flexibility in terms of colours and finish. Gel coat is more difficult to repair and maintain, whereas boat paint is easier to work with and touch up. The decision between gel coat and boat paint depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. If you prioritise durability and protection, gel coat may be the better option. However, if customisation and ease of maintenance are more important to you, boat paint could be the way to go.

The Benefits of Gelcoat

Gelcoat is a crucial component of any fiberglass boat. It is a type of resin that is applied to the surface of a boat during manufacturing, forming a protective layer with a sleek, glossy finish. While it is typically made of a combination of resins, pigments, and catalysts, its specific composition can vary depending on the manufacturer and intended use. Here are some key benefits of gelcoat for boat exteriors:

Protection and Durability

Gelcoat serves as a protective barrier for the hull of a boat, shielding it from damage caused by water, UV radiation, and other environmental elements. This protective layer helps extend the life of the boat and prevents costly repairs. It is known for its high gloss finish, durability, and resistance to fading and chalking, making it a popular choice for boat owners seeking a long-lasting, attractive surface.

Enhanced Appearance

The high gloss finish of gelcoat adds a sleek and sophisticated look to boats, making them stand out on the water or at the dock. This enhances the overall aesthetics of the vessel and can increase its resale value. Proper maintenance, such as regular cleaning, waxing, and inspecting for damage, is key to maintaining the appearance and durability of gelcoat over time.

Ease of Repair

Gelcoat is relatively easy to repair compared to boat paint. When damage occurs, it can be sanded and re-applied locally, whereas boat paint may require sanding, filling, and repainting of the entire affected area for a seamless finish. Additionally, gelcoat blends into the fiberglass, providing a smoother finish that can hide minor imperfections.

Cost-Effectiveness

Gelcoat is generally less expensive than boat paint, and with proper maintenance, it can last over ten years. While the cost of repairs can vary depending on the extent of the work needed, gelcoat repairs typically range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Versatility

Gelcoat can be applied to a variety of boat materials, including fiberglass, wood, and aluminum. It is compatible with various application methods, including spray guns, rollers, and brushes, making it a versatile option for boat owners.

Repairing and Maintaining Gelcoat

Gelcoat is a protective layer that is applied directly to the boat's fibreglass and is known for its durability and resistance to water, UV rays, and harsh weather conditions. It is typically thick and durable, with a glossy finish that can be polished. However, it can scratch and crack over time if not maintained properly.

Repairing Gelcoat

• Diagnose gelcoat damage: Most scratches and chips in gelcoat are caused by impacts with hard objects. If you find a series of cracks, inspect the area closely. If the cracks radiate from load-bearing equipment, there may be a problem with the installation. If cracks appear at important joints or intersections, they may indicate an underlying structural weakness.
• Prepare the tools and materials: You will need wet/dry sandpaper sheets, a right-angle power buffer, a bucket, water, boat soap, rubbing compound, finishing compound, wax or one-part cleaner wax, reusable mixing sticks, a gelcoat repair kit, acetone, a putty knife, and a PVA curing agent or plastic wrap/wax paper.
• Wash and restore the area: Wash the damaged area with soap and water, then restore it with a rubbing compound to match its colour accurately.
• Gouge out small cracks and scratches: Use a miniature grinding tool or the sharp point of a can opener to widen narrow cracks and deep scratches so they can be filled with gelcoat paste. Sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper.
• Clean the area: Clean the area with acetone to remove sanding residue and any waxes or contaminants that may interfere with the bond between the damaged surface and the gelcoat. Ensure proper ventilation and protection for your skin and eyes when working with acetone.
• Match the gelcoat colour: Start with a white or neutral gelcoat paste and add small amounts of colouring agent until you achieve a close match. Mix the gelcoat paste with hardener and allow it to cure, as the colour will change during this process.
• Fill the damaged area: Use a putty knife to fill the repaired areas with the mixed gelcoat paste. Overfill slightly as gelcoat tends to shrink as it cures. Seal the repair from air exposure with a PVA curing agent or plastic wrap/wax paper.
• Sand and polish: Once the gelcoat has cured, sand the repair with 220-grit sandpaper and gradually increase to 400- or 600-grit for a smooth finish. Apply a coat of high-quality marine polish to complete the repair.

Maintaining Gelcoat

To maintain gelcoat, it is important to consistently clean and wax your boat, inspecting for small cracks, scratches, and chips. Gelcoat is more porous than paint, so it may take in dust and dirt, leading to fading and loss of shine. Regular maintenance is necessary to prevent this.

How to Apply Gelcoat

Applying a gelcoat to your boat is essential for protecting it against the elements. The gelcoat is the outermost structural layer on a fibreglass hull, designed to protect the underlying fibreglass layers. It is typically made of thick polyester resin or epoxy, providing a shiny exterior to the boat.

Prepare your tools and work area:

Plan and prepare all the necessary tools and supplies before starting the job. Pick a shaded area to work in, avoiding extreme weather conditions, as rain and humidity can affect the application and curing process.

Clean your boat:

Wash your boat thoroughly with the appropriate boat cleaning products and rinse it with a pressurised spray hose. Ensure that the boat is free from dirt and grime, as the gelcoat will not adhere properly if dirt remains. Dry the boat with a clean microfiber cloth or chamois.

Identify the damaged areas:

Inspect the boat and identify any cracks, chips, scratches, or worn-out surfaces that need to be repaired. Use masking tape or painter's tape to mark these areas. Cover and protect the parts of the boat that will not be worked on.

Sand the damaged areas:

Clean the damaged areas again and then use medium-grit sandpaper to wet sand the cracks or scratches. Ensure you choose the right grit of sandpaper to prevent damaging the surrounding gelcoat.

Apply gelcoat paste:

Match the colour of the gelcoat paste to the colour of your boat's hull. Fill the sanded cracks or scratches with the pigmented gelcoat paste using a putty knife, ensuring there are no air bubbles. Allow the gelcoat to cure completely, and cover the treated area with plastic film or wax paper.

Allow the area to dry:

Be patient and let the gelcoat dry thoroughly. If necessary, you may need to sand the area again and apply another layer of gelcoat paste for added durability. Allow sufficient time for the area to dry, and cover it with plastic film.

Repair worn-out gelcoat:

If the existing gelcoat on your boat is worn out, you can repair it by applying a fibreglass cleaner to restore its shine and remove dirt. Sand the area again if needed. Fill in any cracks with a mix of fibreglass filler and hardener, ensuring it blends well with the gelcoat.

Address highly oxidised gelcoat:

If the old gelcoat is highly oxidised, it is important to address it promptly to avoid costly repairs. Sand the remaining gelcoat with fine-grit sandpaper and smooth out the cracks. You can also remove the old gelcoat with acetone. Once the surface is prepared, apply new gelcoat with a spray applicator or brush, adding as many layers as necessary.

Polish the gelcoat:

To enhance the shine and protect the gelcoat, you can polish it using a rubber compound to smooth out dull surfaces. Polishing helps to keep the boat's exterior clean, rust-free, and glossy.

Wax the gelcoat:

Apply wax to protect the gelcoat from UV rays, water impurities, and minerals that can damage the boat. Waxing enhances the depth, shine, and luster of the paint, ensuring your boat maintains its attractive finish.

Gelcoat Repair Kits

The gelcoat repair process typically involves sanding down the damaged area, filling in any holes or deep scratches with epoxy filler, and then applying a new layer of gelcoat. It is important to work quickly, as gelcoat has a short working time before it starts to harden. Additionally, it is crucial to prioritise safety by wearing a respirator and disposable gloves to protect against dust and fumes.

There are several gelcoat repair kits available on the market that can be purchased online or from specialist marine stores. These kits vary in terms of the quantity of gelcoat included, the colours available, and the additional tools and accessories provided. Some popular options include the Marine Gelcoat Repair Kit, the Match n' Patch Gelcoat Repair Kit, and the Premium Gelcoat Repair Kit.

When choosing a gelcoat repair kit, it is important to consider the extent of the damage that needs to be repaired and the colour-matching capabilities of the kit. For deep gouges or significant damage, multiple thin coats or a thicker gelcoat consistency may be required. Additionally, it is worth noting that gelcoat repairs can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the severity of the damage and the quality of the gelcoat used.

Frequently asked questions