Boat Detailing – Analyzing Gel Coat Surfaces

Gel coat is a tough, porous coating that’s applied to boats. It is important to keep the original surface intact, just as with cars, trucks, and other vehicles. It is important to properly coat the boat in order to make it look amazing. You must determine the degree of oxidation. Don’t be afraid if the surface is not shiny. This can even be redone. Gel coat is 15 to 20 times stronger than automotive paint, and it’s up to twice as thick. Most blemishes and oxidation can be removed by machine. These cloudy surfaces can easily be repaired.

Light oxidation, or Level 1, will cause a patchy cloudiness to the finish. Aussie Gold DuraGleem is a special product that can remove oxidation and swirl marks from your finish without using abrasive action. You can also do it the hard and tedious way the old-fashioned method. You will need to apply the appropriate light compound. Use a non-abrasive wool pad or foam pad to buff the surface and then apply the sealant using an orbital polisher or hand. To prevent the surface from sticking or bouncing, a wool pad is better than a foam pad. A high-grade Carnauba is usually sufficient. Starbrite’s liquid wax is also very simple to use. Most automotive detailing products can be used at level one oxidation.

Level 2 or moderate oxidation: There will be obvious damage to the deck and hull. Aussie Gold DuraGleem Extra Cut is the best product that we have seen. Although it is more difficult than Aussie Gold DuraGleem Original this product will be very useful for level 2 oxidation. It may not work for all levels of oxidation but it is better than trying the hard way first. If that fails, you can try Meguiar’s #49 polish. Then, follow up with their #55 sealant. Monster Aqua Blue has a similar product. Starbrite Products are preferred by many marine industry detailers up to level 2 oxidation. Polish by using an orbital buffer, a polishing pad or hand.

Level 3: No reflectivity. The surface is hard to see and touch. A foam pad is not recommended for severe oxidation gel-coat surfaces. It heats up and can slip.These gel coat conditions will require a thorough washing and uni-grit grinding of at least 1500 grit. Machine buffing with Meguiar’s #49, polishing using Meguiar’s #45, then finishing with Meguiar’s #55 sealant. You can always paint the vessel if this fails to satisfy you. It is possible to save it if you still want to. However, this can take many hours and may be difficult due environmental concerns. Monster Agua-Blue 100 is completely water-based and water-soluble. It contains no silicone or petroleum products. This will save you the time and

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