Gelcoat repairs in April

[HappyHunter]

Gelcoat seems to be the topic of the moment!

I have two very small holes in the gelcoat on the deck, each hole being on a ridged surface. I assume they were caused by being bashed.

I read in a recent magazine article that you need about 20 degrees C for the repair stuff to cure properly. could anyone please tell me what are the options at this time of year to mend the damage, and bearing in mind that neither hole is likely to be exposed to much water, is it dangerous to leave them as they are for a few sweeks until the weather hots up.

Many thanks for any advice.

 

[Guest]

I am currently having my topsides regelcoated, quite large areas involved. All being done in the open air - no problems so far.

 

[Sirus]

Repaired quite a few holes on mine lately with no problems,need about a minimum of 10 degrees for a good cure or can always help it on its way with a hairdryer.

 

[oldsaltoz]

Re: Gelcoat repairs in a box

G’day Happy Hunter.
If you are worried about low temperatures, how about a light box, a simple globe in a box can be left overnight if required. Tip, and old cool box or esky makes a good box.

Avagoodweekend Old Salt Oz.

 

[romany123]

Re: Gelcoat repairs in a box

The temp according to my instructors at the Maritime college, should be 12c but in practice I have gelcaoted ina a lot less. Its a good idea to add a bit more catalist to make it go off quicker but not two much as you will change the color of the gelcoat.....Remembet to either use wax addative or cover the gelcoat with a film to stop the air getting to it or it will not cure in a month of sundays I. spray mould release wax onto it, unlike using wax addative you can rework it without it refusing to stick to the repair you have just carried out.....seems long winded that.....e-mail me if you get confused. Good luck.

Dave