How To Fix Boat Gelcoat Spider Cracks, Hairline Cracks, and Crazing [MATERIALS LIST👇]

How To Fix Boat Gelcoat Spider Cracks, Hairline Cracks, and Crazing [MATERIALS LIST👇] | BoatUS

Рет қаралды 595,395

Күн бұрын

BoatUS Magazine's Mark Corke shows you how to easily fix gelcoat spider cracks, hairline cracks, and crazing in your boat's fiberglass gelcoat. While this may seem like a scary project, with a little time and patience, it's something you can do yourself with great results!
It's important to differentiate between stress cracks and spider cracks (though the terms are often used interchangeably). Stress cracks are generally deeper, involve more than just the gelcoat, have an underlying cause (structural or impact), and are likely to come back if the underlying cause isn't addressed first. Spider cracks are less likely to come back as they're superficial and often caused by age, UV, weather, or dings.
Here's a helpful list of the tools and products I used in the video:
Acetone: I used an Evercoat product, linked here, but any acetone would be fine.
www.evercoat.com/product-detai...
Pretaped Masking Plastic: 3M brand, readily available at Home Depot. You can also find it in Sherwin Williams stores and some West Marine stores have it.
www.homedepot.com/p/3M-Scotch...
Dremel rotary tool:
www.dremel.com/en_US/products...
Dremel bit: Silicon carbide grinding bit in a bullet or cone shape
www.dremel.com/us/en/p/84922-...
OR tungsten carbide bit (bullet or cone), but be very careful not to grind too deep.
Premixed gelcoat for almost any boat color:
www.iboats.com/shop/paint-and...
NOTE: The catalyst is included when you buy the gelcoat.
Syringes: cheapest I've found from Walmart
www.walmart.com/ip/Monoject-C...
Colloidal silica: For thickening the gelcoat
www.westmarine.com/buy/west-s...
Plastic mixing sticks: West System
www.westmarine.com/buy/west-s...
Respirator: Available at home improvement stores
Wet/dry sandpaper: (available at home improvement stores)
www.westmarine.com/buy/3m--we...
Polishing compound:
www.mirka.com/Polarshine-45-P...
Buffing machine: The one I have is no longer available but this is the equivalent
www.dewalt.com/products/power...
Polishing pad:
www.westmarine.com/buy/3m--do...
Polish/Glaze:
www.3m.com/3M/en_US/company-u...
www.westmarine.com/buy/3m--fi...
Collinite Wax:
www.westmarine.com/buy/collin...
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#boatus #gelcoat #boat
0:00 Introduction
0:23 Wash area & wipe with acetone
0:40 Mask off work area
1:01 Open up cracks
1:40 Stir gelcoat well
2:04 Decant gelcoat into cup
2:46 Mix well
3:08 Thicken gelcoat with colloidal silica
3:31 Apply thickened gelcoat
3:57 Scrape off excess gelcoat
4:12 Let dry overnight
5:01 Remove tape
5:15 Wet sand with 220 grit paper around block
5:56 Wet sand with 400 grit paper around wood block A Boatus
6:18 Wipe with clean rag
6:35 Apply rubbing compound with rag
6:52 Buff with polisher
7:15 Apply glaze
7:31 Buff #2
7:47 Apply wax with applicator pad
8:08 Buff #3 with clean pad

Пікірлер: 414

@1StudMuff1n 3 жыл бұрын

Very informative, right to the point without annoying music intro and extensive blah, blah, blah! I always appreciate videos like this, especially by those with a British accent.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Keith. Glad you found it helpful! We try to keep them to the point. And, yes, Mark's British accent apparently does make the info in the videos even more useful if the number of comments we get about it are any indication 😂

@legaseasportfishing5372 4 жыл бұрын

Wow, perfect timing for sharing this video and I've been searching for quite a while and this is, by far, the best video for small stress crack repair!!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, and glad we could help! Good luck with your project and let us know how it goes.

@judeshriner1132 3 жыл бұрын

Very clear an concise demonstration and procedural explanation of the process and materials needed. One of the very best videos which is why I always subscribe to BoatUS for all my HOW-TOs!

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, Judith! We're thrilled you found the video helpful, and we hope to keep the good content coming--both in video and print.

@BellavistaPEI 4 жыл бұрын

Probably the BEST information video for this type of repair! Excellent job Mark...THANKS!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Tom!

@garyhsk8 4 жыл бұрын

agreed, simple and straight to the point with good tips

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

@@garyhsk8 Thanks for watching, Gary!

@andrewernst3884 2 жыл бұрын

This video helped me alot, im a young guy in my early 20s and its hard to find knowledgeable people. Thanks to you I was able to restore my 1975 motorhome to a like new finish and your video helped with the cracking thank you for the demonstration and knowledge!

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

We're so thrilled to hear that, Andrew! Good for you for tackling that job, and we're glad you were able to apply the info we used on a boat to a motor home. Here's to many happy, safe miles (and adventures) ahead!

@kaneaikua955 2 жыл бұрын

It’s apparent Mark knows his craft just his prep work alone show he has learned how to handle material and finishes with amazing results.Thanks for the video.

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, Kane! Yes, Mark is extremely thorough with his prep, which is 3/4 of the project.

@ibcrypto6139 Жыл бұрын

Clearly knows what he is doing and does an exceptions job of transferring knowledge for DIY'er with no extra distractions.... Much thanks!

@boatus Жыл бұрын

Thanks, crypto!

@MurphysLemonadeStand 4 жыл бұрын

This was a GREAT tutorial! I have (under a Shipwright) restored two boats. At the same time Gel coat was never really a issue I worked on personally. Now that I am restoring my 3rd and my hopefully last live aboard. I really love the close up. The detail and the detail list. When I do get off to actually posting our renovations I will make sure to credit your video for the help I got.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Aw, shucks! Thanks so much for watching, and we're glad you found this video useful. Be sure to check out our two other gelcoat videos, which include repairing gelcoat on flat and vertical surfaces. You'll find a couple different techniques that you may find useful depending on the application. Wishing you all the best with your restoration. If you take photos during the process, feel free to send them to us at BoatUS Magazine (magazine@boatus.com) to consider for our occasional makeover articles.

@dirkvanulden2329 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you Mark, very well explained and good references to required materials.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Dirk!

@burtwest2424 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you so much, your videos are very well done. And gives me the confidence to tackle a scrap from a dock screw we encountered. Thanks again.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Burt! Hope your project goes smoothly, and let us know how it goes.

@bobdidymus5769 3 жыл бұрын

Great stuff! Step by step guide for everybody to easily understand. Many thanks.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Bob! Glad you found it helpful.

@chunkyfather29 2 ай бұрын

This guy takes the title of ( Quick, knowledgeable, constructive, helpful) outstanding work 👏

@boatus 2 ай бұрын

Thanks so much, Chunky! Glad you found it helpful!

@davidmartins6566 3 жыл бұрын

That was very well done, very informative! Thank you! Great help!

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, David!

@petersmaling2989 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the advice and video. Following your instructions, my repairs worked a treat

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the update, Peter! We're so thrilled it worked well for you. Not too difficult, right?

@stevemeleleu926 4 жыл бұрын

Great instructions and the key seems to be take your time and have the right tools ready to make this look like a professional job.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching, Steve! Glad it was helpful. Yup, you've got it! Lots of steps, but the results (and the savings) are worth it.

@zacharynicholas4569 4 жыл бұрын

Very informative video, didn't know you were able to repair spider cracks, here goes another boating project!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Zachary, and good luck tackling the project! We just added a list of products and tools used to the description with links for convenience. Let us know how it goes!

@Cruisingthesouth 4 жыл бұрын

Awesome video! I have to do some repairs my self I’ll be making videos about the out come. Thanks for the info

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@Fireship1 4 жыл бұрын

I worked with resins, gel coats, micro bubbles (silica) and fiberglass mat in FAA aircraft mechanic school years ago. So I had an idea on how to mix gelcoat and apply. However, it’s been years since I’ve done it. This video was just what I needed to make an almost perfect repair in my transom. (Log bumped it last year and put a bunch of radial cracks as big as my hand.) I followed this video to the letter and got results I’m proud of. Best advice I could give is don’t be afraid to grind those cracks wide. I ground next to one and not directly in it as I was being gun shy. I could see the crack when I look for it, but from a few feet away it’s invisible. I figure if it opens up again next year I’ll just give it a do over. Thanks Mark for making this video and passing on all your professional knowledge!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for your wonderful feedback, Fireship! We're thrilled you found this so helpful, particularly with your skill level. We also appreciate you sharing your advice and experience with those looking to tackle this project. There are a lot of steps, but it's not nearly as difficult or scary as we fear. Here's hoping the repair lasts for years to come.

@julianr1862 3 жыл бұрын

Wow! An excellent tutorial. Well done BoatUS. Subscribed.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Julian! Glad you found it helpful, and welcome aboard!

@olegnovikov8885 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for your great video!!! I'm doing repar on Lotus Elise front end gel coat spder cracks. Would you recommend to follow your procedure or use different techniques as it will be painted anyway.

@kerny7678 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark. Needed this video. Was recently looking at some cracks and did not know how to fix them.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! Glad you found it helpful. Good luck with your project, and make sure to check out our other gelcoat repair videos for additional tips and techniques depending on the type and location of the repairs. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/irB4nptixNSvgn0.html

@DavidSmith-zw8bg 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you. I love the detail and recommendations.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

You are so welcome! Thanks for watching!

@BrettHoustonTube 2 жыл бұрын

Exceptional attention to detail! Great clip, thanks!

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Brett!

@user-dz6wj8zz9f 8 ай бұрын

Good demo! And just what I needed to make a old boat look a lot better.

@boatus 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for watching, and glad you found it helpful! You may want to check out our playlist of gelcoat repair videos because there are some other techniques that might be better depending on where the repairs are. And there are some additional tips. kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@vonkelly2436 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent demo from Mark!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching, Von!

@joelaszlo4725 Жыл бұрын

great video and great job sir! I learned a lot and please keep these very informative videos coming. much appreciated all your expert advice.thank you

@boatus Жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching, Joe! We will certainly keep the videos coming.

@pwelch5944 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the detailed instruction ... took the fear out of repairing spider cracks.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, pwelch! It's really not that difficult. Yes, there are a lot of steps, but if you follow the process, you'll have a great result for a lot less money than paying a pro -- or the annoyance of looking at them all the time! Good luck with the project and let us know how it goes.

@domenicvenuto6618 4 жыл бұрын

Good summary of the steps and process. Thanks!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much, Domenic!

@tonywulk2710 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this Mark. There are so many videos on KZfaq with some many different ways to do things. As a new to me first time boat owner, I want to do it right. But, you don’t know who to trust. However, you know you can trust advise from BoatUS.

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

BoatUS Thank you so much for your trust, Tony! That means a lot! Do check out some of our other gelcoat repair vids for additional tips and techniques you might find useful: kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@nateriordan2677 4 жыл бұрын

Great explanations. Lots of steps, but quality repair always has that.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Nate!

@harveyhauschildt1152 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent video. I am going to try this on some small cracks and see if I have the confidence to take on larger cracks.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Love to hear that, Harvey! Glad this gave you confidence to give it a go. Let us know how it turns out! (It's truly not difficult to do for the basic to average DIYer.)

@greggkathy1892 Жыл бұрын

Nice, clear demonstration! Thank you!

@boatus Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Gregg! Glad you found it helpful. If you haven't done so already, be sure to watch all of our other gelcoat repair and maintenance videos for additional tips and techniques depending on where the repairs are located: kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@motorv8N 4 жыл бұрын

Fabulous demo - got a few of those I need to deal with....liked and subbed!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for all, motor! Hope the project goes smoothly.

@joezappo7626 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks a lot I now have confidence to tackle some problem areas.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Joe. Glad you found this helpful. Good luck with your repair(s), and let us know how it goes!

@ibrhm_ackgz Жыл бұрын

Mark, it was a very useful content, you are great.

@boatus Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and glad you found it helpful. Be sure to check out our gelcoat repair playlist for additional tips and techniques!

@lakepowellfishing 6 ай бұрын

Excellent and thank you.

@boatus 6 ай бұрын

You're welcome and thank you for watching!

@valeriewilliams5165 4 жыл бұрын

Wow that was a great video. I have some bothersome cracks I may try to repair. Thanks!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching, Valerie! Good luck with your project, and let us know how it goes.

@pierredecotret481 2 жыл бұрын

Great video with a wealth of information! Challenge is finding the matching grade of white for the boat. Will definitely try this !

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Pierre. Yes, color matching is probably the hardest part if you don't have gelcoat that matches your boat. Thankfully several companies make premixed gelcoat to match most standard boat colors. If necessary, you can also try matching it yourself using white gelcoat and a tinting kit, though that takes a bit more finesse and practice. And some companies can create a custom match if you can bring something to match from. Good luck with your repair.

@pashkoskoda3862 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent video! Thank you for sharing.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

You are quite welcome Pashko! Do check out our other two gelcoat repair videos for additional repair tips and techniques for different applications.

@kirkbrode 4 жыл бұрын

Extremely helpful! Thank you!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

You're welcome, Kirk. Thanks so much for watching!!

@moejrbig 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent Video. I have ordered all my supplies from Jamestown. I just paid $2,900.00 to have a bunch repaired on my 2009 Beneteau. It is time I learned and your video was very informative.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, moe! We're glad you found it useful. Let us know how your project goes. It's not hard to do this yourself--you just have to follow the steps. You might want to watch some of our other gelcoat repair videos, too, because we discuss slightly different techniques you might find helpful depending on location and depth: kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@markfennah4322 2 жыл бұрын

Nice work and exposition - thanks you !

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Mark!

@ralphslade9558 3 жыл бұрын

Very informative and to the point. Thanks!

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Ralph. Glad you found it helpful.

@mariuzangoncalves6138 3 жыл бұрын

Congratulations, very well explained!

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Mariuzan!

@sg15 4 жыл бұрын

Just did the same process to repair scratches on my black gel coat hull, minus the dremel tool grinding. For anyone wondering if you need a polisher, I learned that you really do in order to get the shine back. Great simply stated video. Thanks BoatUS

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, and thanks for your helpful advice!

@Dragon-Slay3r Жыл бұрын

This the automatic car?

@williamhallman2101 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent info on repair to fiberglass.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

@richardolson8120 4 жыл бұрын

Great job. Now to go and do it!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

You got this! Thanks for watching and good luck. Let us know how it goes.

@glenng8594 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks. Great video for the DIY.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Glenn!

@Goinin 3 жыл бұрын

WOW this guy is very good 👍👍👍 Thank you for your professional help !!!

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Douglas! We're glad you found it helpful. Depending on your gelcoat repair needs, we have a couple other videos you may want to watch. Each one has a little different technique that you might find helpful.

@annyarbrough9636 4 жыл бұрын

Great video. Amazing results. Thank you.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Ann!

@RichardHall-rj5rw 3 ай бұрын

Thanks for the vedio its a great start to my repair.

@boatus 3 ай бұрын

Glad you found it helpful, Richard! Be sure to check out our playlist of more gelcoat-repair vids because there are several different techniques shown depending on where the repair is located. There are also extra tips, tricks, and explanations you might find helpful. Bottom line: Repairing gelcoat is not difficult, but you do need to follow the steps for a good result. Good luck with your repair, and let us know how it goes!

@grahamatsea3575 Жыл бұрын

Some great tips in this video, thanks

@boatus Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Graham! Glad you found it helpful. If you haven't already seen them, check out our other gelcoat repair vids for additional tips and techniques: kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@hitgucvkj Жыл бұрын

Very informative. Thank you for sharing

@boatus Жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@joegreco8599 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the tutorial!!

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Joe! If you haven't done so already, check out our other gelcoat repair videos. There are some additional techniques and info that you might find useful depending on the location, size, and severity of the repair. kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@johnlynch7655 4 жыл бұрын

good simple repair . Well presented

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! 👍

@robertbrown8371 4 жыл бұрын

Very Informative. Thank you.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching Robert!

@kerryknight900 3 жыл бұрын

Good job simple to follow instructions

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Kerry. Glad you found it helpful

@alecharper515 Ай бұрын

Excellent. Thanks!

@boatus Ай бұрын

You're very welcome. Glad you found it helpful!

@cruepprich 4 жыл бұрын

Very good instruction. Thanks!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Christoph!

@michaelhines6561 4 жыл бұрын

New boat owner- THANK YOU!!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

You are welcome, Michael! Congrats on the new boat. Here's to much fun and great memories ahead.

@bigrich6750 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent! Subscribed.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and subscribing!

@tsmith9825 4 жыл бұрын

very good information. Thanks

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for watching! Glad you found it helpful.

@davidsmith-oq8xw 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark I just purchased a 1994 and it has some top cabin cracks. perfect training.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Congrats on the new boat, David! Thanks for watching and good luck with the projects.

@robertcain3426 10 ай бұрын

Mark. There are two reasons for getting spider cracks (three, if you include a collision). One, is the gelcoat has been incorrectly applied too thick. Two, the laminate is too thin and flexing. Or a combination of both. Gelcoat doesn't like to flex, so the thicker it is applied the less it will flex and if there is movement in the laminate, spider cracks will appear again. Cheers

@billcook6886 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the great series of gelcoat repair videos! Do you see any benefit to using a flexible epoxy after grinding out gelcoat stress cracks, followed by the gelcoat per your instructions? I've heard that a gelcoat-only repair may crack after a couple of years.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the question, Bill. I would caution against using any sort of flexible substrate under the gelcoat. The gelcoat is essentially a stiff coating and anything underlying gelcoat that is flexible will definitely lead to cracking. Providing the gelcoat repair is done in the way that I show in the video, all will be well. The only time that I would not use my method would be when there is extensive cracking covering the entire deck, which I have seen on some boats. In this case the only sure-fire remedy is to fill and fair the cracks with an epoxy filler and then paint the surface.

@MrRshawn320 3 жыл бұрын

Great informative video.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks so much for watching, MrRshawn! Glad you found it helpful.

@bradlefton7796 4 жыл бұрын

excellent. very helpful.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Brad!

@Burritosarebetterthantacos 3 жыл бұрын

when he pulled out that AARP card I almost died.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

You gotta do what you gotta do! Thanks for watching, Skip

@jeffh5388 3 ай бұрын

Thank you so much.

@boatus 3 ай бұрын

You are very welcome! Thanks for watching.

@walterherbst6414 4 жыл бұрын

outstanding video.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Walter!

@Captdal 4 жыл бұрын

Wow great tips

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Dal!

@fintryendrickwildlife1619 9 ай бұрын

Many thanks Easy to watch and understand …

@boatus 9 ай бұрын

Thanks so much for watching, Allan! Glad you found it helpful.

@tykotz1610 4 жыл бұрын

excellent video.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks, Ty!

@jillkreutzer1701 4 жыл бұрын

GOOD DEMO. should work for cracks on my camper, I hope. Bill K. South Dakota

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Bill. Yes, the process should be similar. Good luck, and let us know how it goes!

@jonathanscott708 4 жыл бұрын

Very helpful thank you

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@homeycheese1 4 жыл бұрын

Nice video! The issue I find is the that cracks generally form in not so easy locations such as the one in the video. I have some repairs needed on inside corners/edges

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the question, David. You're right -- cracks do not always happen to be in the most accessible/convenient places. However, if you are careful when filling the crack, it is usually possible to sand down the repaired gelcoat so that it is flush with its surroundings by wrapping the paper around a shaped block of wood. Alternatively, I suggest checking out another video we have done on repairing vertical surfaces where we discuss a technique that requires using a sheet of mylar - something that might work well for your situation: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/a6uRo7ab39ClqYU.html

@joedoug3647 11 ай бұрын

Outstanding!

@boatus 11 ай бұрын

Appreciate that! Thanks for watching, Joe

@jeffs9530 4 жыл бұрын

I like to tape much closer to the repair and when I spread with the card it leaves a tape thin layer over the repair. I like the puffing products you used and will be adding to my favorites on Amazon. Thanks!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for sharing, Jeff! Glad you found it helpful.

@tamaravolovik9423 5 ай бұрын

Good job Richard

@boatus 5 ай бұрын

I think you mean Mark? Thanks for watching, Tamara! Glad you found it useful.

@stevenvachon9745 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for this. What product/technique would I use to build up the worn through bottom ridges on my Hobie cat? It's just the gelcoat in small areas that's worn through from dragging on the sand. Thanks

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your question, Steven. Repairing the gelcoat on the bottom of the Hobie is certainly possible and you can find out more about the recommended technique for this at kzfaq.info/get/bejne/irB4nptixNSvgn0.html. To be successful, you really need to flip the boat over, which means removing the rig, but the results will be worth it. Trying to work upside down is difficult as you will be fighting gravity and working in awkward positions. Best of luck, and we would love to know how this turns out!

@edwardmcmanus1265 4 жыл бұрын

Great informational vid. Not sure how to match exact color on my Pursuit.

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Edward. There are two ways to get the correct color: You can buy pretinted color for nearly any boat (see the description for a link) or have it matched similar to buying paint at a store. Or you can buy tints and tint it yourself, which is a much trickier job. We are looking into doing a gelcoat tinting video sometime in the future.

@waterboy8999 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for posting your videos, I've got quite a few of these little blighters on my Sigma, now I know what to do.

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Glad we could help you out, Waterboy. There are a lot of steps, but it's not difficult, and the results are worth it. Once you get into the swing of it, you should be able to knock a bunch out quickly. Thanks for watching! (And let us know how it goes)

@waterboy8999 2 жыл бұрын

@@boatus thank you.

@Cdelosreyes12 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the video. Great info! What type of bit is best to open up the cracks?

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Luis! This is similar to the one I use (which is currently unavailable): www.amazon.com/HOMEIDOL-Tungsten-Wood-working-Polishing-Engraving/dp/B076D4Z8LX?ref_=fsclp_pl_dp_9

@Devast8r34 Жыл бұрын

Thank you

@boatus Жыл бұрын

You're welcome! Be sure to check out our library of gelcoat repair videos. There are some other techniques you might find useful depending on where the repairs are located and what types of repairs they are: kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@johnnyfavre1800 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks you have help me a lot

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Johnny! Good luck with your repair.

@Tylerdesignforcomposites 3 жыл бұрын

Nice succinct video thankyou

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Tyler!

@makingcookingfixing 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for this video. I have a question: my dad has a wooden boat and like on this same exact spot and others around the boat, last summer we repaired cracks with body filler and repainted with marine top gloss paint, but months later, everywhere where we repaired, around he filler it's all cracked again. We basically have to do everything over again. What would you suggest to use this time over? Many were holes under the surface from regular rusted screws that we removed and filled it. We did a great finishing job, but heartbreaking to see the cracks again.

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for your question, MCF. I don't have a definite answer for you, especially since we can't see the boat in person, but you probably need to start by figuring out the cause of the cracks before you can decide the best way to fix them. I came across this really useful PDF from West Systems, which may have the answers you're looking for. I believe epoxy is a better choice than body filler, which is typically a polyester or vinyl resin. A quick search turns up that epoxy actually binds to the wood and creates a much longer-lasting bond. Here's a link to the West document. Hope you find it helpful. If not, let us know, and I can reach out to some of our experts to ask. Mark, who was our resident boat repair expert, has since retired. www.westsystem.com/wp-content/uploads/0617-Wooden-Boat-Manual.pdf

@garyhsk8 4 жыл бұрын

amazing tutorial, it reduced my fear of messing around with Gelcoat, now I can finally make some repairs on my boats!! I would LOVe if you did a video on how to color match your own custom gel coat to match the aging and possible discoloration of an older boat. Cheers!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching and thanks for your suggestion! A color-match/tinting vid is on our list. Gelcoat repair really isn't that difficult. It's all about taking the time and following the steps. Good luck with your project!

@stephendudka6192 4 жыл бұрын

Excellent video...I have spider cracks around snap holes and other places. Is the same technique used around the snap hole or should I fill the hole completely,fix the spider cracks and re drill?

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Hi, Steve, and thanks for the great question! You need to remove the snaps, repair the cracks as shown, and then screw the snaps back on. You should not have to fill and redrill the holes, but do put a little mastic polysulphide sealant, such as the Boatlife products available at West Marine and other retailers (www.westmarine.com/buy/boatlife--life-calk-sealant--P004_127_003_003?recordNum=2), on the threads of the screws before you reattach them.

@lucianmarius2003 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the tutorials you posted. Please explain to me why in one case you used colloidal silica as a thickening agent for gelcoat, and in another you used only simple gelcoat. For me, the depth of the gelcoat's defects was similar.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

That's a great question, Lucian! If you're working on a flat/horizontal surface, there's no problem using straight gelcoat for the repair. You're not fighting gravity, and it's going to stay where you put it. If, on the other hand, you are working on a vertical surface, you've got to have a way to keep the gelcoat where you put it. And it also depends on depth of the repair. If you go to our vertical gelcoat repair video (kzfaq.info/get/bejne/a6uRo7ab39ClqYU.html), we had some deep holes that needed filling, which we used filler to do, essentially bringing the surface flush with the surrounding gelcoat. We just needed to brush on some gelcoat, like you would paint, to cover those repairs, and the mylar plastic gives you a smoother finish (not as much sanding required) and keeps the gelcoat from running. In the case of repairing spider cracks, you're grinding out the cracks somewhat, so there's a bit more area to fill, hence the use of the colloidal silica for thickening. Hope this helps, and thanks for watching!

@bwvideo0905 2 ай бұрын

I have a very challenging project ahead with an almost 50 year old 14 foot open cockpit fiberglass sailboat. Exterior of hull had been refinished before i purchased and structurally all is fine but cockpit probably has 50+ spots that need gelcoat repair nevermind a lot of spider cracks. I have watched at least a dozen instructional videos so far and this is by far the best. Extremely well done sir. I'll take all the advice I can get! Sincere thanks from Upstate SC in the US!!!

@boatus Ай бұрын

Thanks so much, and we're thrilled to hear you found it helpful. Be sure to watch our other gelcoat repair videos. They have some additional techniques that you might find helpful depending on the location and depth of the repairs. kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq Good luck with your project, and be sure to document it -- or parts of it -- to share with BoatUS Magazine for consideration as part of a future Makeover article. Before/during/after pics are always great!

@bwvideo0905 Ай бұрын

@@boatus Will do! Thanks again!

@bryanst.martin7134 7 күн бұрын

Pay attention to whether it is Gelcoat crazing or laminate fractures. Laminate fractures are from a strike to the hull. Gelcoat cracking is Solar induced shrinkage.

@bwvideo0905 7 күн бұрын

Thanks much but mine is all age/exposure. No impacts. But good advice. @bryanst.martin7134

@UncleScratchnSniff Күн бұрын

@@bryanst.martin7134 would these be different repairs? Also, how do you identify which is which?

@nelsonfernandez7473 3 жыл бұрын

Clean very good quality repair

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Nelson!

@tristanschaper281 2 жыл бұрын

Great video! I'm doing some repairs on my 2006 Boston Whaler, and all of the spots are not on flat areas. They are on the inside and outside of curves, and a couple spots are overlapping nonskid. I guess I picked a real challenge for my first time! Question: Do you recommend wax paper, thin plastic or saran wrap, for placing over the top to get it flat? And how long should I leave the wax paper/plastic on?

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Tristan! We like using Mylar film, often sold at stationery stores. Sometimes called acetate, I believe. It's clear, flexible, and helps smooth out the repair as well as keeping it in place. I recommend viewing our other gelcoat repair videos, especially the one on repairing vertical surfaces, for additional tips and techniques you might find helpful for your specific repair. You'll leave the sheet in place for the recommended drying time -- usually 8-12 hours ("overnight"). kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq Good luck with your project and let us know how it goes!

@thedirtyfecker 3 жыл бұрын

Amazing stuff! Do you know how to remove the black rubber marks left by the wheels of bunk roller trailers on the hull? I can't find a product that can remove these?

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching! Regarding the black marks, try using some WD-40. Here's an article that contains that tip if you want to read more about it: www.boatus.com/expert-advice/expert-advice-archive/2018/october/time-saving-tips-for-your-boat You can also try some Barkeepers Friend. Keeping your boat hull waxed will help minimize future stains -- or make them easier to remove. Good luck and let us know if it works!

@davidtunnicliff5442 3 жыл бұрын

nice video..........thanks. will certainly help me to do some of my own repairs.

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, David. It's not difficult--you just need to follow the steps. Let us know how your repairs go!

@davidtunnicliff5442 3 жыл бұрын

@@boatus will do.

@obiwanfisher537 3 жыл бұрын

With the left over materials I could open my own chandlery

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, obiwanfisher. You're correct that there are quite a few materials needed for this, but the savings of doing gelcoat repairs yourself can be substantial. Hopefully you never need to do any repairs, but the investment is worthwhile if you do.

@lornejanes6001 8 ай бұрын

Mark , excellent video , conscise, to the point. Clean and clear.. well done !! Thank you

@TheTharenoom 4 жыл бұрын

Great!

@boatus 4 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching!

@boashna 3 жыл бұрын

good job

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, Fix!

@amandashaughness2180 11 ай бұрын

Hello Mark - Thanks for your instruction. I'm new to this process. Wondering what you can use in lieu of silica to create the paste? or would you have filled the spider crack with 3M platinum filler? If silica is the best way to go, then great; I just want to make sure I know the options. Thank you for your knowledge and instruction!

@boatus 10 ай бұрын

Thanks for the question, Amanda. There are likely other acceptable ways to repair spider cracks in boat gelcoat, however, this is the method that Mark prefers. The silica is necessary to thicken the gelcoat enough that it fills the repair and doesn't run out. Depending on the size and location, you might be able to use mylar plastic instead. You can learn more here: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/a6uRo7ab39ClqYU.htmlsi=bpGHmhU0RQEd8v5g

@nonameneededsailing 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks.

@boatus 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for watching, NoName! Be sure to look for our full playlist of gelcoat repair videos for more tips and techniques depending on the area you need to repair. kzfaq.info/sun/PLSrVa8gUFaPwF4oz5H4JmSEkdlTwkCrYq

@mikebacevich6665 3 жыл бұрын

Great video! Thank you. How much Colloidal Silica should be added? Can you use too much or too little? Also, for non waxed, what is best to use to once the gel coat is applied, PVA or something else? Thanks

@boatus 3 жыл бұрын

Awesome questions, Mike. I'd call it about a tablespoon per syringeful of gelcoat. You can always start with a little and add more if needed until you get it to the consistency you want. (Don't forget to wear a respirator while handling the silica!) Too little, and the gelcoat will run out of the repair. Too much and it will become super thick. For nonwaxed gelcoat, you can use PVA or cover it with something like a mylar sheet. We talk about that a bit in this video, more so to keep the gelcoat from running, but it can also be used for nonwaxed gelcoat: kzfaq.info/get/bejne/a6uRo7ab39ClqYU.html (You might find some other useful gelcoat repair tips depending on where the repair is and how deep.) Thanks for watching!

@mikebacevich6665 3 жыл бұрын

@@boatus Great info! Thank you!