Search results for: 'base resin'

Polyester vs Vinyl Ester Resin: Understanding the Differences Choosing the correct resin is one of the most important decisions in fiberglass lamination. Polyester and vinyl ester resins are both widely used in open molding, hand lay-up, and spray-up applications, but they offer different performance, durability, and cost characteristics. Understanding how these resin systems differ will help you select the right material for your project, environment, and performance requirements. ...

Open Molding & Lamination Technical Support Open molding and hand lay-up remain some of the most widely used fiberglass manufacturing methods in marine, industrial, and composite fabrication. Successful lamination depends on selecting the correct laminating resin and understanding how resin formulation, processing behavior, and cure characteristics affect the finished composite part. What Are Laminating Resins? Laminating resins are polyes...

Boat Restoration Technical Support Guide Last updated: February 2026 Boat restoration is the process of repairing, rebuilding, and refinishing fiberglass boats to restore structural integrity, appearance, and long-term performance. This technical support guide serves as a master reference for understanding materials, repair methods, and best practices used in modern fiberglass boat restoration. This page is designed as a living knowledge base. Each section below will continue ...

Fiberglass Florida – Core Material Comparison Chart Compare our most popular core materials including Coosa, Divinycell, AirCell, and Honeycomb foam. Use this chart to choose the right material for your application based on strength, weight, water resistance, and compatibility with resin systems. Material Density (lb/ft³) Water Absorption Screw Retention Best Used For Resin Compatibility Coosa Bluewater 20–32 Very Low Excellent Transoms, stringe...

Fiberglass & Gelcoat Technical Support Fiberglass and gelcoat work demands the right materials, proper technique, and an understanding of how each layer in the system works together. Whether you’re making repairs, building a mold, or producing parts, Fiberglass Florida provides technical guidance built on real-world experience. Our team supports professionals and serious DIY builders working with polyester, vinyl ester, and epoxy systems. We help you select compatible products, apply them corre...

Fiberglass Fillers Guide: Aerosil, Q Cell, Fairing & Structural Fillers Explained What Are Fiberglass Fillers? Fiberglass fillers are powders, fibers, or pre-mixed compounds used with polyester resin or epoxy resin to create custom mixtures for marine, repair, and composite applications. They are commonly used in: Fiberglass boat repair Marine fairing and surface preparation Composite construction Surfboard building --- Types of Fiberglass Fillers (What to Use and W...

Technical Support & Expert Guidance Working with fiberglass, gelcoat, and marine coatings requires the right materials, correct procedures, and real-world experience. At Fiberglass Florida, technical support is part of what we do every day. Our team works directly with boat builders, repair yards, manufacturers, and serious DIY builders to solve real-world problems using proven materials and practical methods. Call Technical Support Send Us a Message ...

Awlgrip Yacht Paint Application Guide Complete professional guide to surface preparation, priming, fairing, and applying Awlgrip marine coatings. Built for boat builders, professional painters, and first-time users who want a flawless finish. Guide Contents Overview of Awlgrip Coating Systems Surface Preparation Fundamentals Preparing Fiberglass & Gelcoat Preparing Aluminum Preparing Steel Preparing Wood Fairing Compounds & Surface Correction...

MEKP Catalyst Calculator & Mixing Guide (oz, mL, cc) MEKP Catalyst (Methyl Ethyl Ketone Peroxide) is used to cure polyester resin, vinyl ester resin, and gelcoat. The correct mix ratio is critical to ensure proper curing, strength, and finish quality. Standard mix: 1.5% MEKP (about 2 oz per gallon of resin). Important Mixing Notes This information is based on MEKP 925 and tested at 77°F (25°C) . These are estimates and may vary depending on the resin system, shop conditions, and ap...

MEKP Catalyst Calculator Calculate exactly how much MEKP catalyst you need for polyester resin, vinyl ester, or gelcoat. Input Resin Amount (oz) MEKP % 1% 1.5% (Standard) 2% Standard mix is 1.5% at ~70–75°F. Adjust as needed. Result 0.24 oz 7.1 mL / cc Quick Tip: Perfect for small batches and repairs. Quick Mix Examples 8 oz Resin ~3.5 mL (0.12 oz)...