Gelcoat is a specialized resin that is used to coat the exterior of fiberglass boats and other objects. Over time, the gelcoat can become damaged from impact, cracking, crazing, fading, and other wear. Repairing damaged gelcoat keeps your boat looking nice and protects the vulnerable fiberglass underneath from moisture damage. Spectrum gelcoat repair kits provide everything you need for professional-quality gelcoat repairs.
What’s Included in a Spectrum Gelcoat Repair Kit
A spectrum gelcoat repair kit contains:
- Spectrum gelcoat putty
- Spectrum gelcoat liquid
- Spectrum gelcoat catalyst
- Mixing sticks
- Spreading putty knife
- Sandpaper
- Application brush
- Protective gloves, mask, goggles
- Instructions
The gelcoat putty is used for filling in cracks, chips, and gouges. The liquid gelcoat is used for building up thin layers to blend repairs. The catalyst initiates the hardening reaction when mixed with the putty or gelcoat. The accessories help you mix, apply, shape, and smooth the gelcoat.
How to Use Spectrum Gelcoat Repair Kits
Here is the step-by-step process for using a Spectrum gelcoat repair kit:
Prep the Surface
Proper surface prep ensures the repair materials bond correctly. Here’s how to prep:
- Wash, clean, and degrease the repair area with a marine cleaner and rinse thoroughly.
- Sand the area with 80-120 grit sandpaper to remove loose gelcoat and roughen the surface.
- Wipe away sanding dust with a tack cloth.
- Mask off the area around your repair with painter’s tape.
Mix the Putty
The gelcoat putty thickly fills cracks, chips, gouges, and other deep damage:
- Prepare your work area and don the protective gear.
- Measure out the appropriate amounts of putty and catalyst according to package directions. A typical ratio is 2% catalyst to putty by weight.
- Thoroughly mix the putty and catalyst together with a disposable stick until a uniform color is achieved.
Apply the Putty
Once mixed, the putty can be applied into repairs:
- Work quickly – the putty will begin hardening in 15-20 minutes.
- Force the putty deep into cracks and damage with the putty knife.
- Overfill chips and gouges slightly.
- Level and smooth the putty with the flat putty knife.
- Let the putty fully cure for several hours before sanding.
Mix the Gelcoat
The liquid gelcoat covers repairs and creates blendable finish layers:
- Prepare your work area and don protective gear.
- Measure out gelcoat and catalyst according to package instructions. A typical ratio is 2-3% catalyst to gelcoat by volume.
- Thoroughly mix gelcoat and catalyst in a disposable cup for at least 2 minutes.
Apply Gelcoat
Once mixed, the gelcoat is brushed over repairs and sanded smooth:
- Work quickly – gelcoat will begin hardening in 15-20 minutes.
- Use even brush strokes to smoothly cover the putty repair.
- Overlap gelcoat onto surrounding gelcoat by 1-2 inches.
- Apply light coats and let cure between layers to build up thickness.
- Allow the final coat to fully cure before sanding.
Blend and Finish the Repair
Final sanding and polishing results in an invisible gelcoat repair:
- Use 120-220 grit sandpaper to blend and feather the repair into the surrounding gelcoat.
- Remove all sanding scratches with 320-400 grit paper.
- Finish by wet sanding the area with 600-800 grit paper.
- Carefully buff with rubbing compound and apply boat wax to restore the glossy finish.
Troubleshooting Gelcoat Repairs
Here are some common issues and how to avoid them when repairing gelcoat:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Putty or gelcoat doesn’t properly harden | Incorrect catalyst ratio, poor mixing, old materials | Carefully follow mixing instructions, always use fresh products |
| Bubbles or craters in applied gelcoat | Insufficient mixing, applying too thickly | Thoroughly pre-mix, apply thin coats |
| Repair doesn’t blend into surrounding area | Insufficient feathering and sanding | Extend sanding 1-2 inches beyond repair |
Tips for Gelcoat Repair Success
Follow these tips when using a spectrum gelcoat repair kit:
- Choose a spectrum gelcoat color matched to your boat
- Less catalyst allows more working time
- Only mix as much gelcoat as you can apply in 10-15 minutes
- Apply light coats to avoid sagging and runs
- Let each coat fully cure between application
- Sand with adequate ventilation and a dust mask
- Work in the shade when possible
- Tape off repair borders for a neat finish
Conclusion
Spectrum gelcoat repair kits provide high-quality products to permanently fix gelcoat damage. Carefully following the preparation, application, sanding, and finishing steps results in repairs that are invisible and prevent further damage. With some practice and these tips, you can refinish your boat’s gelcoat and keep it looking showroom new.