How to Apply Fiberglass to Resin
Fiberglass and resin are an ideal combination for protecting wood. When properly applied, resin waterproofs wood and prevents rot. Fiberglass adds strength and structural stability. To get the best results from these materials, you must read and follow the resin manufacturer’s recommendations for proper mixing and application. Proper surface preparation is the key to success in any fiberglass job.
Things You'll Need
- Resin and catalyst
- High-density foam roller
- 200-grit sandpaper
- Clean rags
- Acetone
- Fiberglass cloth
- Scissors
- Squeegee
- Utility knife
Instructions
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Mix the resin and catalyst. Apply the mixture to your work surface with a foam roller. Start in the center and work out to the edges.
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Allow the resin to sit for 15 minutes. Check for dry spots. Wood surfaces absorb resin at different rates. Wet out any dry spots with additional resin. Ideally you should have a thin, even coat across the entire surface. Let the resin cure for at least 24 hours.
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3
Sand the work surface. Abrade the surface evenly to allow for a good mechanical bond between coats. Remove dust by wiping the surface with a clean rag soaked in acetone.
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4
Spread a layer of fiberglass cloth across the work surface. Cut the cloth slightly larger than the size of the work surface with sharp scissors. Add 2 inches to each edge of the cloth to reduce the need for repositioning if it moves slightly during the wetting-out step.
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Mix another batch of resin and catalyst. Start in the middle of the work surface. Pour a small amount of resin over the fiberglass.
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Place your squeegee in the center of the pool of resin. Press firmly and pull the squeegee toward the dry area of the cloth. Wet out the entire cloth in this fashion. Always work from a wet area to a dry area. Apply only enough resin to cover 1 square foot at a time. When you are finished, you should have an even layer of resin and the fiberglass should be almost invisible. Work out any air bubbles trapped underneath the fabric with your squeegee.
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Allow the resin to cure until it is stiff. Trim the excess fiberglass with a utility knife and remove it. Allow the resin to cure for at least 24 hours before applying additional coats.
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Tips & Warnings
Most resins produce oily patches on the surface when curing. This is referred to as amine blush, and it should be removed with acetone. Do not use paint thinner or other oil-based solvents, as they inhibit the bonding of additional coats.
Wear old clothes and disposable rubber or vinyl gloves when working with resins. Resin is difficult to remove from your skin and impossible to remove from clothing.
Work only in well-ventilated areas when using resins or solvents. Wear a respirator with the appropriate filter cartridges.
References
- Photo Credit red canoes image by Joy Fera from Fotolia.com
