How to Repair a Fiberglass Ladder
Fiberglass ladders are very popular because they are lighter than wood or metal but just as strong. When fiberglass breaks or becomes damaged, it can always be repaired back to its original strength if done correctly. Fiberglass is applied in layers of dry material that are individually saturated with catalyzed resin and rolled flat with an air roller. The resin will harden and form into one solid piece of fiberglass. The number of layers determines how thick the fiberglass will be. You can find fiberglass materials at your local marine supply store. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Respirator
- Safety glasses
- Dye grinder
- Rags
- Acetone
- Fiberglass mat
- Razor knife
- Small bucket
- Fiberglass resin
- Catalyst
- Stir stick
- 100 Grit sandpaper
Instructions
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1
Put on safety glasses and a respirator and, using the dye grinder, grind directly on the crack or fracture, forming a groove where the damaged fiberglass was. Gradually taper the edges of the groove to give the repair fiberglass more surface area to bond to.
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2
Wipe the repair surface clean using a rag and acetone. Remove any dust or other residues that may be on the fiberglass. Let the acetone completely dry.
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3
Cut the first layer of mat with the razor knife so it fits in the bottom of the groove. Cut each following layer 1/4 inch larger than the last. Use as many layers as it takes to get the damage back to its original thickness.
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4
Mix the resin and catalyst together in a small bucket using a stir stick. Follow the recommendations on the containers for the correct amount of catalyst. Wet the surface of the fiberglass with the resin mixture using a 4-inch felt roller. Apply the smallest layer of mat in the center of the repair and saturate it with resin using the felt roller. Remove any air bubbles by rolling the entire layer of mat with an air roller. Continue this process for each layer until all the mat is applied to the damage. Let the fiberglass harden.
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5
Sand the fiberglass repair smooth using 100 grit sandpaper.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a respirator anytime you are cutting or grinding fiberglass.
