Gelcoat: What It Is, How It’s Used, and How to Repair It Gelcoat is the outermost protective and cosmetic layer used on fiberglass parts. Understanding how gelcoat works — and how to apply or repair it correctly — is critical to achieving long-lasting performance and professional results. What Is Gelcoat? Gelcoat is a pigmented polyester or vinyl ester resin applied to the surface of fiberglass parts. It creates a smooth, high-gloss finish while protecting the underlying laminate from wat...
Preparing Gelcoat for Awlgrip Paint Systems When applying Awlgrip or Awlcraft coatings over fiberglass boats, proper preparation of existing or new gelcoat is critical for long-term adhesion and finish quality. Most adhesion failures in marine paint systems occur because of poor surface preparation rather than product failure. Why Gelcoat Preparation Matters Before applying Awlgrip systems the gelcoat surface must be: Free of wax and contamination Properly sanded to ...
Awlgrip 545 Epoxy Primer Guide 545 Epoxy Primer is the industry standard undercoat primer used in Awlgrip coating systems. It seals surfacing primers and prepares substrates for Awlgrip or Awlcraft topcoats while providing excellent adhesion and corrosion protection. View Full Awlgrip Application Guide Shop Awlgrip Primers Product Overview Key Features Outstanding adhesion to fiberglass, steel, aluminum and wood Corrosion resistant epoxy primer Used above or...
Preparing Previously Painted Surfaces for Awlgrip Many boat refinishing projects involve applying new coatings over previously painted surfaces. Proper inspection, cleaning, and sanding of existing paint systems is critical to ensure long-term adhesion and professional finish quality. The condition of the existing coating determines whether it can be recoated directly or if removal and full surface preparation are required. Evaluate the Existing Paint System Before beginning...
Steel Surface Preparation Guide Correct surface preparation of steel is critical for long-term coating performance. Removing mill scale, rust, shop primers and contaminants ensures strong adhesion and corrosion protection when applying Awlgrip coating systems. Select Your Steel Surface Scenario Steel (No Fairing Required) Standard steel surfaces where fairing compounds are not required. View System Steel (Fairing Required) ...
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