Step-By-Step: Gelcoat Restoration Process for Beginners

Introduction to Gelcoat Restoration

UV exposure can cause the surface of the shiniest boats to eventually fade due to the oxidation of the gelcoat. That once-lustrous look will gradually fade away due to the oxidation of the gelcoat. However, everything's not lost as long as you know how to repair a boat's gelcoat. Lucky for you, this blog will explain how you can get that showroom shine back on your boat by restoring the gelcoat.

Step 1: Tools and Materials Needed for the Restoration Process

Using gelcoats on your boat requires more effort than cleaning or restoring car coatings due to their thick nature. Specialized tools are needed for high-quality detailing, as automotive products typically lack the polishing power needed for marine-grade treatments. To prevent damage to your boat's gelcoat, equipment should be specifically designed for boat detailing.

You’ll need a whole lot of items to do the job right, including:

• Medium or coarse deck brush
• Microfiber wash mitt
• Boat erasers
• Silicone squeegee
• All-purpose cleaner/degreaser
• Applicators pads
• Compound polish
• Wash buckets
• Rotary buffer and polisher
• Goggles
• Soft handheld brush
• Telescoping extension pole
• Knee pads
• Boat soap
• Stain remover
• Polishing and buffing pads
• Microfiber rags
• Wax sealant
• Boat chamois
• Hose and nozzle

Step 2: Preparing the Surface for Gelcoat Restoration

To restore the look of your boat, first wash and remove any surface filth and debris with cleaning tools and quality microfiber rags. Yellow and rust stains can be removed using elbow grease or a certified rust remover. Use splash-proof goggles and gloves for a safer application. 

Wet/dry sanding may be required in severe circumstances where the gelcoat cannot be revived by compounding due to high oxidation levels. Once you’ve fully cleaned/sanded the surface, you’re ready to apply the restoration product.

Step 3: Applying the Gelcoat Restoration Product

Next, use a high-quality polishing compound containing powerful abrasives, such as a rubbing compound specially formulated for fiberglass. Apply the product, then rub the surface until it is smooth. Stop rubbing once the finish looks shiny. Continue polishing the rest of the boat until the gelcoat reaches a glossy look. If there was significant enough oxidation, the "factory" finish may not be fully restored.

Step 4: Buffing and Polishing the Gelcoat to a High Shine

When you start gelcoat polishing, apply wax to the surface using a rotary buffer and pad. Make sure it covers a significant portion of the boat. You should avoid overapplying, and remove the excess wax with a buffing pad. Allow the wax to haze, then remove it with a polisher.

Step 5. Final Steps and Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Gelcoat Looking New

The last step is maintaining the gelcoat after it has been restored. By performing regular washing and maintenance with the guidance of the following tips, you can help keep the gelcoat of your boat looking new.

• Regularly wash and dry your boat to prevent staining, salt buildup, and mold. This will improve the look and lifespan of your boat’s surface.
• How often you wash it depends on the weather. Hotter climates and excessive sunshine require frequent polishing due to gelcoat degradation.
• Keeping the hull sealed is another way to help minimize oxidation.
• Store your boat in a garage or storage unit, as cooler climates improve longevity and reduce waxing frequency.
• For hotter climates, we recommend keeping your boat in a garage or covered when not in use.
• Use specific soaps for cleaning, especially oxidation-removal marine soap. The gelcoat should be polished every three to six months.
• Use reputable marine-grade products, such as protection wax with durable adhesives and UV fillers, for polishing and protecting gelcoat and paint. Apply these products when detecting a possible oxidation buildup.

Boat Lover’s Towel has superior boat cleaning and detailing supplies, including The Glosser® wash and wax wipes.