Author Topic:   paint & glass RAB Member posted September 28, 2003 08:49 AM             I'm considering making some cosmetic improvements to my boat. Top side definitely needs paint (faded and ugly). I'm wondering if I should touck the hull. There are some chunks and gouges in the gelcoat. Can I fill these with fiberglass resin? Is there a particular paint I should use? Can I do more harm than good by attempting this? The alternative is just to power wash and wax the hull. Thanks RAB Tom D CL16 Member posted September 28, 2003 04:52 PM             For the topside before painting etc. I would try to use a cleaner and a boat polish. West Marine and all marine stores carry a cleaner and a polish. Try this first. It has done wonders for many an old boat that looks sick. For the hull several options are available. If the scratches and gouges are few and minor try to use a gelcoat repair. It requires a little more work the epoxy but does not need painting. Gelcoat needs a covering to help it set, small areas can be covered with saran wrap type material or there is a liquid cover available at marine stores. Thickened epoxy fills gouges very well and can be sanded to a smooth finish. HOWEVER epoxy has very little UV protection and must be covered with paint or varnish. I have done the epoxy trick on my boat. I had many deep gouges and scratches. I also had to rebuild up a lot of the keel due to prior owners beaching it on gravel or rocky beaches. Good Luck and great sailing Tom D.

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