How to Paint Sun-Damaged Gel Coat
Gel coat is fiberglass resin that is pigmented with color. It is used on many different things, such as boats, duct work, fiberglass tanks, cars and planes. Over time gel coat that's exposed to the sun will become faded and oxidized, but a fresh application will bring it back to life. Gel coat can be brushed or rolled on, but the only way to get a smooth, professional finish is to apply the resin with a gel coat spray gun. All gel coating materials can be found at your local marine supply store. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Respirator
- Electric sander
- 200 grit sandpaper
- Rags
- Acetone
- Painter's tape
- Fiberglass gel coat
- Catalyst
- Small bucket
- Stir stick
- Gel coat spray gun
- Felt roller
- Gel coat wax
- Foam applicator pad
- Electric buffer
Instructions
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1
Put on a respirator. Use an electric sander with 200 grit sandpaper to sand the existing gel coat surface until it's completely scuffed and smooth. Sand down any rough or scratched areas until they are flat.
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2
Remove the sanded particles, as well as dust and other contaminants, by wiping the surface with clean rags and acetone.
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3
To prevent overspray, use painter's tape to mask anything on or around the sanded surface that isn't getting gel coated.
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4
Use a stir stick to mix the gel coat and the catalyst together in a small bucket, following the instructions on the container (you'll have about 15 to 25 minutes before the gel coat begins to harden). Add the gel coat to the spray gun.
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5
Spray the first coat in a heavy mist using even strokes, keeping the spray gun tip at least 12 inches from the surface. Let the first coat harden.
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6
Apply the second and final coat using heavy, even strokes to completely cover the surface. If the gel coat begins to run, use a dry felt roller to absorb any excess, then respray that area before the gel coat hardens. Let the gel coat harden until it's hard and cool to the touch.
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7
Use a foam applicator to apply gel coat wax to the surface, then let it dry. Use an electric buffer to buff the dry wax to a shine. Remove the painter's tape.
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Tips & Warnings
After you've finished using the spray gun, clean all the parts with acetone before the gel coat can harden inside them. Wax and buff the gel coat frequently to prolong its life.
Always wear a respirator when working with fiberglass materials.
