Do you paint over gelcoat. It’s about applying a good gelcoat to your boat.
Do you paint over gelcoat Aug 19, 2021 · A gel manicure can be expensive. I have been sanding for weeks, but it seems impossible to get it all down to the old gelcoat. Applying gelcoat to fiberglass is simple if you have the right tools and take care to mix your gelcoat properly. After making your decision, you clean your boat thoroughly with Acetone, preferably. Try compounding and buffing a little bit of it and see if you like it. For one, gelcoat is a lot tougher than regular paint, so it can be tricky to get the new paint to stick. Find out in this article whether can you paint over gelcoat for the best protection. However, gelcoat is porous and, over time, will absorb water, which can cause blisters in the hull. If your gelcoat is in good condition, meaning it does not have significant cracking or crazing, then painting over gelcoat is easy. Gel stain will sit on top of painted surfaces, but it won’t soak in (just like with wood). It’s about applying a good gelcoat to your boat. All you will have to do is to follow a few simple steps: clean and prepare the surface apply a light coat of epoxy primer sand over the primer remove the sanding dust apply the topcoat Like this Aug 8, 2023 · However, with the desire for customization and artistic expression, the question arises: can you paint over gel coat? So, let’s dive into the process of painting over gel coat, the necessary steps, and potential considerations to elevate the appearance of gel coat surfaces. The exterior gelcoat is mostly fine - a bit weathered, but it hasn't been waxed and polished for a while. I really like the robustness of Nov 14, 2006 · Re: Painting over gel coat Also remember that you have to remove all the wax - once before sanding & once after sanding. If an area has become dull and cannot be repaired by buffing and chemical cleaning—a repainting job is in order. Apr 23, 2008 · Hi all, Here's a question which I'm sure may have been asked before: I spent last weekend trying to strip the old layers of bottom paint & barrier coat off my sailboat's 28' hull. Over time, weather fades the paint and it starts to flake and fade. If the surface is already coated with gel coat, or if the surface is a fiberglass or polyester resin, then the process will be a snap. 5mm gun thinned 10% with styrene. So yes, you can paint over gelcoat, but under specific circumstances. Gelcoat is a resin-based material that is highly resistant to water, UV Jan 30, 2007 · Detailing, Painting, & Fiberglass - clear coat vs gel coat - This is just a stupid question, but does clear coat hold up as good as a gel coat will on the boat, considerd that it is maintened properly, what is the life exp of a boat that has been painted and then had a few coats of clear layed over the paint. Mar 20, 2024 · You may have noticed some boats look shiny and new while others look dull and drab, even if the boats are the same age. The gel coat must be cleaned, sanded, and primed to ensure adhesion and a smooth finish. Jan 17, 2021 · In this post, I will give you a few easy steps to follow if you want to paint over gel nails and a quick guide on how to remove gel nails. This article will discuss how to apply the gelcoat with the brush and roller method. What a job! I got to about 1/3 of the hull with a hook scraper when mu arms, shoulders & back ran out of strength Nov 11, 2025 · Gelcoat Not Curing? Causes, Fixes, and Prevention Tips Applying gelcoat can feel intimidating, even for experienced do-it-yourselfers. Choose a shady location or an overcast day Dec 17, 2024 · Gelcoat is a liquid that hardens to form a thick layer that's used to protect fiberglass and give it a shiny, smooth finish. Mar 18, 2024 · Gelcoat, known for its protective properties and glossy finish, is a common choice for boat hulls and recreational vehicles. Gel coat is a durable, protective coating used on fiberglass surfaces, and painting over it is a common practice to update or change the appearance of the surface. Other than the few scratches that go through the paint, she will look great with a coat of clear. Feb 28, 2023 · Boat hull repairs are often crucial, but you also need to paint the boats. You’ll also need to use a marine-grade primer and paint, and make sure you sand down the gelcoat surface before painting. Leave any wax on there & the topcoat will probably be the disaster you're talking about. If you are painting over gel coat, it is recommended to use an epoxy barrier coat primer to prevent osmotic blistering and provide an excellent surface for the paint to bond to. Sep 20, 2019 · I'm going to paint my boat which is currently a gelcoat Its faded and thin in several areas. Then you've got to get the old paint and primer off without ruining the fairness of the original gelcoat underneath - difficult to do. May 27, 2022 · Gel coat has many uses including mold construction, manufactured parts, cosmetic gel coat repairs and yacht/boat construction. You can put regular top coat over cured gel top coat for a couple of reasons. After you got your gel manicure done and your gel polish is not shinny for some reasons, you can put regular top coat over your cured gel polish to make it shine again. It is advisable to use soaps specifically made for boats as dishwashing liquids may be too hard on the wax and lead to its breakdown. Do not work in direct sunlight. Can you paint "CLEARCOAT ONLY" over the existing Gel-coat? 2. It should have no significant cracks or crazing. For a more comprehensive guide on How to Apply Gelcoat, please read this article. Can I reasonably expect the paint to adhere long term and not to fish eye from wax that may remain on the substrate. Jan 27, 2005 · Spraying gelcoat over gelcoat Discussion in ' Fiberglass and Composite Boat Building ' started by alexhiguera, Jan 27, 2005. Apr 10, 2013 · The crappy job is repainting over old paint - especially if you don't know what was used the first time. If you are applying bottom paint over gelcoat, you don't need to use a primer first. Gelcoating also reduces the rate of Oct 19, 2014 · I am putting together an exterior bid, and the ho has stated that she would like their previously gel stained fiberglass front door to be painted with latex. Because of their thick consistency, gelcoats require spray guns during application. May 23, 2024 · Yes, you can paint over gel coat. Sep 8, 2005 · Detailing, Painting, & Fiberglass - base and clear over gelcoat - Can you successfully shoot clear over gelcoat? if you do will the gel fade underneath the clear?? Also, can you shoot base coat to sanded down gelcoat or do you have to prime it first? Yeah you can paint over it with more gel polish. My question is, how do i prep this door for paint? Do i need an oil based primer? Or will a Jul 28, 2025 · Gelcoat is an outer layer applied to the mold of a boat during the manufacturing process, while a topcoat is a layer applied over the gelcoat to enhance its appearance and protect it from environmental damage. However, over time, exposure to sun and weather can take a toll on its appearance, leading many to ask the question: “Can you paint over gelcoat?” This article aims to explore that question in depth, examining the considerations, steps, and potential pitfalls of Feb 15, 2021 · How To Paint Over Gelcoat Firstly, you decide if you would rather a professional do the job or you, with little or no experience. If the surface has paint on it, be sure to remove it before applying the gel coat. Catalyzing Determine the Existing Surface: The first thing you want to do is take a good look at the surface you want the gel coat applied to. Over time, gelcoat’s colors fade. Jun 10, 2017 · I plan to paint over the Gelcoat without the use of epoxy Primer The cosmetics of the paint don't need to be perfect I am just trying to improve the appearance of my below deck areas. We will assume you have already read the article to learn about prepping the surface, sanding, and finishing the gelcoat. Gelcoats are based on a thermoset resin that requires an initiator and proper TotalBoat ISO/NPG neutral and white marine gelcoats compatible with coloring agents. How to Apply Gelcoat to Your Boat To maintain the look and sea-worthiness of your ship, Gelcoat is necessary. Can you put regular nail polish over gel polish to change the color or try to fix it? Aug 25, 2022 · Can you use regular top coat with gel polish? Yes, you can. Oct 28, 2022 · If the gelcoat can't be saved, do you replace the gelcoat? Or do you opt for painting? Here's all you need to know about replacing or painting over gelcoat! Yes, you can paint over gelcoat. Jan 5, 2011 · This is one of the questions Bottom Paint Store is asked the most. Correct application of gelcoat is critical to get the optimum performance from it. Besides sanding and wiping down before application will I run into any type of snags while doing this. Do not paint over waxed gelcoat. Gelcoat isn't just a pretty resin that makes the vessel look nice; it protects the fiberglass surface and acts as a barrier to water absorption. In this case, it may be better to re-gel coat the surface. Sep 25, 2024 · Gelcoat is essential to maintain your boat's look and sea-worthiness. This texture helps the paint adhere better. Key takeaways on how to apply gelcoat: Clean the repair area and all tools with acetone prior to application. Unlike paint, gelcoat involves a precise chemical reaction that requires careful measuring and preparation. Thank you pescaloco, Jun 10, 2017 #1 Joined Jun 10, 2017 · I plan to paint over the Gelcoat without the use of epoxy Primer The cosmetics of the paint don't need to be perfect I am just trying to improve the appearance of my below deck areas. Nov 4, 2025 · You can paint over gel nails with both traditional nail polish and gel polish; both do not harm your nails or the gel coat underneath. Gelcoat’s smooth, non-porous surface makes adhesion challenging, so skipping prep steps will likely lead to peeling or blistering. Details: Gel coat is a formula Sep 15, 2022 · Professional Grade Exterior Gelcoat can be applied either by Spraying, Brushing or Rolling. Gelcoat available with and without wax for boat building and repairs. The Gelcoat is slightly oxidized and I am debating on how and what to paint the decks and cabin with. Nov 13, 2024 · Wondering if you can jazz up your manicure without starting over? This article reveals how to paint over a top coat nail polish safely, ensuring your nails stay stylish and vibrant. I am in the process of refitting an old fiberglass sailboat. It’s like painting on window frames: […] Feb 3, 2010 · Gelcoat is the preferred material for painting fiberglass since it offers good protection. Just make sure that your gel coat is in good condition. Of course the last layer would have wax in it to get the surface to cure. Don’t worry—uncured gelcoat is a In this video I show how to apply the gelcoat over a semi set layer of fiberglass and polyester resin ( of course its totalboat stuff ) Here I use a roller and a cheap chip brush. B ut this isn't always a good way to tell, depending on the Side note: since you’ve used epoxy, you need to put primer over the epoxy in order to get proper adhesion with gelcoat. It's like the paint on window frames. I plan on shooting the new gel out of a 2. Gelcoat is a resin-based material that is highly resistant to water, UV can you paint over gel coat ?Looks like a wet sand and clear prospect. If the surface is scratched, gelcoat will be the same color throughout; paint will show primer or existing paint beneath the surface, and the mil thickness of paint is much thinner than gelcoat. So as long as the gelcoat is successfully revived by the usual steps of sanding, compounding, polishing and waxing, there is no possibility for the oxidation to reappear provided the gelcoat is kept clean and waxed through its service life? Prior to applying gelcoat, the surface can be primed with either TotalBoat TotalProtect epoxy barrier coat primer or TotalBoat 2-Part Epoxy Primer. One way you can try to tell if the existing coating is paint or gelcoat is to look at a scratch in the surface, in an inconspicuous location. If you do have to re-coat, I'd use paint, since re-gelcoating is a huge and uncertain process. I rolled Alexseal on an 80 foot Burger, it looked horrible, my helper and I went home thinking we were going to have to resand and when we came back in the morning it looked like glass. Gelcoats protect boats from ultraviolet damage. Aug 10, 2005 · Detailing, Painting, & Fiberglass - Clear Coat over Gel Coat - On my Aggressor the deck has pruple gel coat graphics that I am playing hell with to keep from chalking. Dec 28, 2023 · Gelcoat is typically composed of a polyester or epoxy resin, pigments (for color), and additives to enhance its performance. Again, do you know someone with a shop? Other wise May 9, 2024 · Yes you can paint over gel coat and it bonds just fine if prepped properly. You will want to buff the "face" of the nail just until the shine is gone so your new gel layer doesn’t chip. Will gelcoat adhere to the paint? Are there any primers for gelcoat? Could a paintable epoxy, something like a bottom barrier coat work as a primer? Apr 21, 2010 · 1. Gelcoat is impossible to get right a decent finish unless you do it for a living, and most of the time that involves sanding and polishing and buffing. Eventually, the rain soaks into the wood and begins to rot the frames. Discover essential tips on applying new polish, selecting the right products, and techniques for a flawless finish. Nov 27, 2023 · Learn about the different types of paint for gelcoat surfaces, including epoxy, polyurethane, and acrylic paint, and how to choose the right one for your project. Feb 16, 2023 · Yes, it is. Gelcoat is not only a nice resin that makes the vessel look nice; it protects the surface of the fiberglass and serves as a barrier to the absorption of water. Jul 3, 2025 · If the gel coat is heavily cracked, it will require additional preparation and labour. The Gelcoat is more like an adhesive that holds the paint in position. Marine wash is a good start to cleaning gelcoat, but you may need an acid-based remover if you have stubborn stains. After drying, sand the gelcoat with 120-grit sandpaper to create a rough texture. The disadvantage of doing it that way are the pors in the gel. Feb 7, 2025 · Hi, I'm looking for advice what to do with the exterior of the boat (see attached picture). With paint: Sand, Prime, Scuff, Paint. It was very difficult to smooth without wearing down the gelcoat. I know the process of cleaning and May 15, 2025 · Yes, you can paint over gelcoat, but proper preparation is crucial for long-lasting results. Doesn't seem like gel-coat will bond with gel-coat?? 3. Dec 24, 2024 · Yes, you can paint over gelcoat, but preparation is essential. or should i try and paint Gel-coat back over the existing Gel-coat? --although I noticed when making some small repairs with gel-coat if you get it in spots where the prep wasn't done it will peel---and peel badly. Mar 21, 2022 · Then it's time to paint. I also used Jul 9, 2012 · I have a new cafe seat I want to paint and my plan was to primer it first, but I need to know if I should sand the gelcoat at all, or can I primer right over it? Aug 9, 2008 · Previous owner painted the boat with regular paint. The application process is slightly different for each use but hopefully this guide will give you a good idea of what needs to be done when working with gel coat. Start by cleaning the surface with soap and water, followed by a thorough rinse. It had a bunch of screw holes (from canvas top snaps) that I repaired with marine tex which was really not the best choice. Gelcoat is a resin system that is filled with colorants and thickening agents and applied to a mold surface to form the cosmetic and weathering coating of a composite part. Gel coating seems to be a big Mystery to many people! It doesn't have to be! I will show you the TIPS and TRICKS, along with gelcoat HACKS that we use in our Boat building and boat repair business Jan 13, 2024 · Conclusion If you’re considering painting over gelcoat on your boat, there are a few things you need to know. If the surface looks good, then painting over a gel coat will be quite easy to do. Thank you pescaloco, Jun 10, 2017 #1 Joined Jul 16, 2025 · If you’re wondering if you can go the other way and apply gel stain over paint, the answer is yes, but with some extra steps. This isn’t just about choosing glossy paint instead of matte. Jul 28, 2025 · Gelcoat is an outer layer applied to the mold of a boat during the manufacturing process, while a topcoat is a layer applied over the gelcoat to enhance its appearance and protect it from environmental damage. Jan 7, 2023 · Gelcoat has an incredible ability to be buffed back to a nice shine even if decades old. Let’s start with explaining that gelcoat is not a paint but a type of resin that is used to provide a protective layer over fiberglass. Once you have fiber glassed over your plywood, you NEED to seal it with gelcoat! Gelcoat not only makes your fiber glass work look better, it seals and creates a water barrier for your raw Fiber Dec 19, 2023 · Gelcoat is a protective layer that’s applied directly to the boat’s fiberglass, while boat paint is a coating that can be applied over gelcoat, or directly to other materials like wood or aluminum. I've never seen a re-gel job that didn't consume countless hours in wet sanding and buffing. Use a good wax remover like DuPont Prep-Sol. Understanding the properties of gelcoat is crucial in determining its suitability for a particular application. Gel coat is typically the first layer of a part to be applied. If you want a good paint job you need to prime preferably with a good epoxy filler primer. Learn more Tired, old, thin and UV damaged gelcoat can be fixed my applying new Gelcoat over the old, here is show you one way to do it on a Contessa 32. Your . When it stays tacky or won’t harden at all, it can be one of the most frustrating issues in fiberglass repair. Oct 8, 2025 · Yes, you can paint directly over a gel coat, but proper surface preparation is essential. Before applying gelcoat, the epoxy primer must be completely cured for at least 48 hours, then sanded with coarse sandpaper to allow the gelcoat to form a strong mechanical bond. Don't want to sand through any of the layers seeing you have many colors and some may be thin. I plan on using Resilience or Emerald. Best get someone who has done it before do it for you, or help through it all. A boat’s gelcoat needs to be in good condition, meaning no cracks, stains or chalky oxidation. Nov 11, 2014 · I have a boat done in white gel, and I would like to apply a different color gel coat over the old gel coat. They can both be used to extend the manicure and refill any gaps that begin to arise.