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BoatSmartz

Gel Coat Repair Kit

Gel Coat Repair Kit

Regular price $29.99 CAD
Regular price Sale price $29.99 CAD
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Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit quickly and easily fills hairline and spider cracks without the need to sand. Cracks can be filled in minutes, using everyday equipment and supplies. Curing takes 24 hours, after which your boat is ready for use.

Only Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit delivers superior adhesion to your fiberglass and gel coat, unlike any other product on the market. This creates a hard finish that cannot be washed off, stands up to pressure washing just 24 hours later, and resists yellowing (UV resistance) from sun. Our crack filling system is based on a 2-step "seal and fill process" utilizing nano-particles that are able to completely fill the hairline crack.

Benefits

  • True adhesion that can resist pressure washing 24-hours after application
  • No sanding or dremeling of existing cracks is required
  • No fancy equipment, only everyday tools and supplies are needed
  • White finish that matches majority of boats with white gel coat
  • Non-yellowing and UV Resistant
  • Can fill cracks above and below the water line (boat needs to be out of water when filling cracks below the water line)
  • Mini Kit fills approximately 2-3 medium hairline cracks on gelcoat
  • Maxi Kit fill approximately 5-6 medium hairline cracks
  • Product does not dry out quickly so you have plenty of time to work it into the crack before it starts to dry or cure
  • After curing for 24 hours your filled gelcoat cracks are ready for any elements and the cracks can be pressure washed directly

Application

  • 2-step sealing and filling process which takes minutes
  • Only everyday tools and supplies are required
  • Just 24 hours needed to fully cure (at 12-40 Celsius)
  • Complete application instructions, including video, are included in your kit


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FAQ

Your Guide to Gel Coat Repair Kits for Boats

What causes boat Gel Coat to crack?

Your vessel is exposed to harsh marine environments. Saltwater, UV rays, and daily wear and tear can lead to chips, hairline cracks, spider cracks, and crazing in the boat’s gel coat finish. These imperfections not only affect the aesthetics but can also lead to long-term structural damage if left unchecked. This is where gel coat repair kits come into play, offering a simple, DIY solution to restore the beauty and durability of your boat. And the good news is, with Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kits, you can address hairline and spider cracks without resorting to the traditional and labor-intensive methods of drilling and sanding.

What is Gel Coat?

Before diving into the details of repair kits, it’s essential to understand what a gel coat is and why it’s so important for boats. Gel coat is a protective layer applied to the surface of fiberglass boats, offering a smooth, glossy finish that also acts as a shield against moisture and environmental damage. This outer layer is crucial for protecting the underlying fiberglass from water intrusion, UV rays, and other environmental factors that can lead to long-term damage.

Over time, exposure to sunlight, saltwater, and impact can cause the gel coat to degrade, resulting in chips, cracks, or fading. This not only compromises the appearance of your boat but also its structural integrity. Regular maintenance and timely repairs with a gel coat repair kit are essential for preserving the longevity of your vessel.

Why do you need a Gel Coat Repair Kit?

A gel coat repair kit is an essential investment for boat owners because it allows for quick, cost-effective repairs that can extend the life of the boat’s finish. Here are some reasons why every boat owner should consider having a gel coat repair kit on hand:

  1. Cost-Effective: Hiring a professional to repair minor gel coat damage can be expensive. A DIY gel coat repair kit provides all the materials and instructions needed to handle the job yourself, saving you significant labour costs.
  2. Quick Fixes for Minor Damage: Boats can sustain small cracks from everyday use. With a repair kit, you can address these issues as soon as they occur, preventing further damage.
  3. Prevention of Further Damage: Unrepaired gel coat damage can allow water to penetrate the fiberglass beneath, leading to more severe problems like osmosis or structural weakening. A repair kit helps stop the issue before it worsens.
  4. Maintain Aesthetics: A well-maintained gel coat gives your boat a sleek, polished look. With a repair kit, you can restore your boat’s original shine, enhancing both its appearance and resale value.
  5. Extend Boat Life: Regular maintenance, including timely repairs to the gel coat, helps to extend the overall lifespan of your boat, ensuring it remains in good condition for years to come.

What equipment do you need to use a Gel Coat Repair Kit?

  • Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit: Purchase a Boatsmartz Gel Coat Crack Filler Mini or Maxi kit depending on how many cracks you have to fill.
  • Dish Soap: Regular dish soap is all you need to clean the area before you start. This will remove grease and dirt.
  • Pressure Washer: After washing with dish soap, you will pressure wash away all of the soap and dirt. You'll also use a pressure washer the next day to pressure wash over the cracks and ensure your Boatsmartz repair is stuck in there for good.
  • Hair Dryer or Heat Gun: If you want to fill the crack right away after cleaning the area, you'll need a hair dryer or heat gun to dry the crack out before you use the Gel Coat Repair Kit.
  • Disposable Gloves, Paper Towel, Cotton Swabs (Q-tips) and Gauze: Other than the above, the rest you’ll need can be purchased from your local dollar store or pharmacy (if it’s not already in your cupboards). You'll want to wear disposable gloves and will use gauze and Q-tips to apply and wipe down the sealant. Paper towel is also great to have on hand, just in case you need it.

What is the process to use a Gel Coat Repair Kit?

  1. Clean the Damaged Area: Start by cleaning the hairline and spider cracks with dish soap and a pressure washer. This ensures a clean working surface.
  2. Dry the Area: Either wait a day for the area to dry fully, or use a hair dryer or heat gun to dry the crack out completely.
  3. Apply the Gel Coat Crack Sealant: Following the written and video instructions you received with your gel coat repair kit apply the sealant with the included brush, Q-tips and gauze into the crack. Boatsmartz' unique formula allows you plenty of time to do this, the sealant will not dry before you're done and you do not need to rush.
  4. Apply the Gel Coat Crack Filler: After you've applied the liquid sealant into the cracks you'll now apply the crack filler powder. This white nano material will adhere to the liquid sealant, making your cracks invisible or barely visible when done. Follow the simple instructions included with your kit.
  5. Allow to Cure: Grab a beer or glass of wine, because for the next 24 hours all you have to do is let the magic happen. If rain or moisture is expected, cover the area with a tarp.
  6. Pressure Wash Test: After 24 hours the Boatsmartz Crack Filler is cured and you can test its strength. Feel free to pressure wash the crack to make sure it's stuck in there for good, and then go enjoy your day on the water!

What are best practices for Gel Coat Maintenance?

While gel coat repair kits are excellent for fixing damage, regular maintenance can help prevent issues from arising in the first place. Here are some tips for keeping your boat’s gel coat in top condition:

  • Clean Regularly: Regularly clean your boat’s surface to remove salt, dirt, and other contaminants that can degrade the gel coat over time.
  • Waxing: Applying a high-quality marine wax helps protect the gel coat from UV damage and oxidation, keeping the finish glossy and smooth.
  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use boat-safe cleaning products that won’t strip the gel coat or cause premature wear.
  • Inspect Frequently: Regularly inspect your boat for any signs of gel coat damage, especially after rough trips or heavy use. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming more significant.

Is Boatsmartz’ Gel Coat Repair Kit right for your boat?

When deciding on a gel coat repair kit, consider the following factors:

  • Type of Damage: For hairline and spider cracks, Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit is the perfect product for the job. For larger cracks or deep damage, you will need a more comprehensive boat fiberglass repair kit with additional tools.
  • Color Matching: Boatsmartz offers a white Gel Coat Repair Kit that blends seamlessly with virtually all white and off-white gel coat on boats.
  • Ease of Use: In addition to clear written and video instructions, Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit is designed as a simple 2-step process using equipment you likely already own. The formula is specially made so it doesn’t dry too quickly, allowing you lots of time to seal and fill your crack before it starts to cure.
  • Lasting Repair: If you’re tired of filling the same cracks over and over, look no further. Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit is so tough, you can even fill hairline cracks BELOW the waterline. Unlike others, our formula does not contain epoxy or silica.

Customer Reviews

Based on 4 reviews
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Doug M
It's what they say

It's on the boat and seems to have done the trick. There's not a ton of it, but I don't think I'll need much more than I've used.

D
David T.
Boatsmartz gelcoat repair

I bought this and found it easy to use and the results were very good. Would buy it again and will certainly continue using it on any hairline cracks that I find.

D
D. Proulx
Good product

Very good product for micro cracks on gelcoat. I need to sand the repair after with a 360, 600, 800 and 1500 + compound + wax.

S
Simone Halliwell
My hubby loves this product!

This has been the best hairline crack filler for our boat. My husband has tried another filler, but it just washes off. He applied Boatsmartz crack filler a few months ago. It was quick and easy to use on some large hairline and stress cracks and the cracks are now barely visible. So far it's holding up to pressure washing and Vancouver's west coast elements. We are very pleased with this product!

Repairing hairline and spider cracks in your boat's gel coat doesn't have to be a daunting task involving drilling and extensive sanding. With Boatsmartz Gel Coat Repair Kit and a few everyday supplies, you can restore the beauty of your vessel with ease. Regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly will not only keep your boat looking great but also extend its lifespan on the open waters.


At Boatsmartz our mission is to give fellow boat lovers more time enjoying boating—and less time (and money) maintaining their boat. If you love our products, or wish you could find a product that would make your life easier, please email us to let us know at hello@boatsmartz.com.