Gel Coat Repair Kit

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.

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.

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.

• 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.

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!

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.

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.