How to Paint a Fiberglass Steeple

There are many things that are constructed with fiberglass. Some of the most common fiberglass applications are pools, tubs, showers, planes, industrial pipes and tanks, and cars. The paint that is used on fiberglass is called gel coat. Gel coat consists of fiberglass resin that is pigmented with color. For outside applications there are additives that protect against ultra violet rays. The consistency of gel coat is very thick and requires a gel coat spray gun for application. All fiberglass supplies can be found at your local marine supply store.

Things You'll Need

• Respirator
• Palm sander
• Fine grit sandpaper
• Rags
• Acetone
• Gel coat
• Methyl ethyl ketone peroxide (hardener)
• Small bucket
• Stir stick
• Gel coat spray gun
• Gel coat wax
• Foam applicator
• Electric buffer

Instructions

1. Put on a respirator and sand the steeple using a palm sander and coarse grit sandpaper. Scuff the entire surface so it is dull and smooth. The better the fiberglass is sanded the better the paint job will be.

2. Clean the surface using a clean rag and acetone. Remove any grease or dust that remains on the surface. Any grease or oil residue that is left on the surface can cause the gel coat to form bubbles and will need repainted.

3. Add the gel coat and hardener to the gel coat gun as directed in the manual. If the gel coat gun is not an internal mixture gun you will have to mix the gel coat and hardener before adding it to the gun. This can be done using a small bucket and a stir stick. Follow the directions on the gel coat and hardener containers for the correct mixture.

4. Spray the first coat of gel coat onto the steeple in a heavy mist. Apply the gel coat as evenly as possible to avoid runs. Let the first coat begin to get tacky before applying the second coat.

5. Spray the second coat onto the steeple solidly covering the surface. Continue to apply the paint as evenly and consistently as possible. Let the gel coat cure until it is hard and cool to the touch.

6. Apply two to three coats of gel coat wax onto the steeple using a foam applicator. Let the wax dry and buff using an electric buffer. This will give the gel coat a protective layer and a nice shiny finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear a respirator when working with fiberglass materials.

References

• Evercoat
• FIberglass Hawaii
• American Marine Supply