How to Apply Gel Coat to a Boat

Apply gel coat to a motor boat.

Applying gel coat to the surface of your boat is an important part of routine boat maintenance. Gel layer protects the boat from different types of damage, such as cracks and leaks. It is a strong and thick coating that makes the structure of the boat more resilient to water and surface scrapes. If you want to prolong the life of your boat, you may want to know how to properly apply gel coats to its surface.

Things You'll Need

• Cleaning solution
• White cloth
• Sponge
• Acetone solution
• Paintbrush
• Spray bottle
• Fine sandpaper

Instructions

1. Clean the boat with a mild cleaning solution and a white cloth. If there are deep marks or dirt, use a sponge or even a wire sponge. Be very thorough because the gel coat will not stick well on a dusty or dirty surface. If you have already applied gel coat on your boat before, use an acetone solution to remove the old gel coat completely.

2. Spread the gel coat evenly on the boat surface with a paintbrush. Apply a thick layer to assure that the surface will be securely sealed. You can also use a spray bottle instead of a paintbrush to make the process easier and faster. Leave the first layer of gel coat to dry and harden completely.

3. Smooth out the surface of the gel coat with a piece of fine sandpaper to remove the paintbrush marks and rough, wrinkled parts. The gel coat should be completely dry before you smooth out the surface. Buffing that first layer will create a smooth base for the next layers.

4. Apply a few more layers of gel coat to the surface of your boat. Spray the gel coat on to the surface to make the layers more even and smooth. Wait for every layer of gel coat to dry and harden before applying the next layer. If you are using a paintbrush in applying the layers, use fine sandpaper to smooth out the surface after each layer.

Tips & Warnings

• It takes brushed-on gel coats longer to dry than sprayed-on ones.

• Use gloves when you apply gel coat to protect your hands.

• It's better to buy extra gel coat than not to have enough. More layers can only mean a better, thicker and more firm surface.

• Be careful that you don't inhale the fumes when working with chemicals such as acetone and gel coat.

References

• Bertram 31: Re-Gelcoating Your Boat
• Boat Building: Fiberglass Gel Coat and Gel Coat Repair