Frequently Asked Questions | Fiberglass Florida
FAQ Section
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we receive about resins, fiberglass, gelcoat, surfboard building, and marine repair. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, head over to our Technical Support page for step-by-step guides and deeper technical resources.
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General FAQ – Fiberglass Florida
What are your store hours?
We are open Monday through Friday, from 8am to 4pm.
What types of fiberglass products do you offer?
We offer a wide range of fiberglass products including resin systems, fiberglass cloth, core materials, additives, and tools for all your composite needs.
Can you help with technical support for my fiberglass project?
Yes. Fiberglass Florida provides technical guidance and product recommendations for fiberglass, resin, gelcoat, and composite projects.
Do you offer shipping? (Hazardous Material-focused)
We can ship them UPS ground with a hazmat fee or we can send them freight.
How does Fiberglass Florida Ship materials?
At Fiberglass Florida, we ship materials via reliable carriers to ensure safe and secure delivery. We offer a variety of shipping options, but please note that hazardous materials and liquids cannot be expedited due to shipping regulations. All orders are carefully packaged to protect your materials during transit.
How do I get the best technical help for my fiberglass project?
To get the best technical help from Fiberglass Florida, provide clear details about your project, materials, and conditions—photos help a lot.
Do you offer wholesale or contractor pricing?
Yes. If you're a boatyard, fabricator, or contractor, contact us for volume pricing and account setup options.
Are you open on the weekends?
No. Fiberglass Florida is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM at both our Rockledge and Stuart locations. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays.
Expanding Foam / Pour Foam
How much does 2# foam expand?
A 2-pound density polyurethane pour foam expands to roughly 9 cubic feet per mixed gallon set (1 gallon of Part A + 1 gallon of Part B).
How Much Does 4-Pound Pour Foam Expand and What Volume Will It Fill?
A 4-pound density pour foam expands to roughly 4.5 cubic feet per mixed gallon set (1 gallon Part A + 1 gallon Part B).
What Are the Mix Ratios for Marine Pour Foam and How Does Expanding Foam Work?
Marine pour foam is a two-part expanding polyurethane foam mixed 1:1 by volume (equal parts Part A and Part B). Fiberglass Florida carries 2 lb and 4 lb density foams.
Marine Core Materials – Coosa, Divinycell & Aircell Foam
What is Divinycell, and what are its primary applications?
Divinycell is a high-density PVC core material widely used in marine, wind energy, and aerospace applications due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and thermal insulation properties.
What’s the difference between Coosa Bluewater and Coosa Nautical?
Coosa Bluewater and Coosa Nautical are both high-performance composite core materials, but they differ in stiffness, resin compatibility, and primary marine applications — with Bluewater engineered for lightweight strength and Nautical tuned for balance of stiffness and cost in boatbuilding and marine structures.
What is Aircell 6lb green foam?
Closed cell polyester foam core, it is an economical alternative to other core materials.
What is Coosa Nautical Series and how is it used?
What is Coosa Nautical Series and how is it used?
The Coosa Nautical Series is a lightweight, fiberglass-reinforced polyurethane foam panel designed as a durable replacement for marine plywood in non-structural and semi-structural applications like bulkheads, cabinetry, and deck components.
What is Coosa Bluewater and where is it used?
Coosa Bluewater is a high-density, fiberglass-reinforced polyurethane foam panel used in marine, transportation, and construction applications. It's a direct replacement for plywood in transoms, stringers, decks, and bulkheads.
What core material should I use for a transom or stringer?
What core material should I use for a transom or stringer?
For transoms and stringers, Coosa Bluewater is the top choice for its strength and durability. Divinycell H and AirCell T are lightweight alternatives suitable for some applications depending on load requirements and resin system compatibility.
Surfboard Building Supplies & Materials
How much fiberglass cloth do I need for my surfboard?
For a standard 6'1" shortboard with a 6/4 oz deck and 4 oz bottom lamination, plan for approximately 3 yards of 6 oz cloth and 6 yards of 4 oz cloth, including waste.
Which epoxy should I use for my surfboard?
Resin Research 2000CE is the top choice for surfboard building and repair. It’s a 2:1 mix epoxy system designed for clarity, strength, and UV resistance—ideal for both lamination and hot coats. Fiberglass Florida is your #1 source for Resin Research epoxy and surfboard building supplies.
Silmar 249A & 249-B Polyester Surfboard Resin FAQ
Silmar 249A & 249-B Polyester Surfboard Resin is a premium surfboard laminating resin widely used by professional board builders. It offers excellent clarity, UV stability, and reliable cure performance when mixed with MEKP catalyst. Silmar 249A is the standard clear laminating resin. Silmar 249-B contains a UV inhibitor for improved color stability and reduced yellowing over time. Both are ideal for fiberglass surfboard lamination and are compatible with traditional surfboard construction methods.
How Do I Do a Hot Coat on a Surfboard Using Silmar 249A or 249-B?
How Do I Do a Hot Coat on a Surfboard Using Silmar 249A or 249-B? A surfboard hot coat, sometimes called sand resin, is the final resin layer applied before sanding and polishing. It’s made by mixing Silmar 249A or 249-B
What’s the Difference Between a Lamination Coat and a Hot Coat on a Surfboard?
A lamination coat bonds fiberglass cloth to the blank, while a hot coat (sand resin) fills the weave, hardens the surface, and creates a smooth finish ready for sanding and polishing.
What is Reichhold Gloss Resin used for?
Reichhold Gloss Resin is used as a surfboard gloss coat resin to create a hard, tack-free, high-gloss finish over laminated polyester surfboards and fiberglass marine surfaces.
Fiberglass Fillers, Fairing Compounds & Additives
What is Aerosil used for?
Aerosil is typically used as a thixotropic agent and reinforcement in resin or epoxy systems.
What is Q-Cell used for?
Q-Cell, or microballoons, are hollow glass or phenolic microspheres that are lightweight and add volume to the resin or epoxy mixture.
What are Milled Fibers used for?
Milled fibers are short strands of reinforcing fibers, such as fiberglass or carbon fibers, that are finely chopped into small lengths.
Which Adtech (now Sika) filler should I use—P-11 (AP112), P-14, P-17, or P-77?
P-14 – Best all-around marine filler and top seller; fast set, easy sanding, bonds to fiberglass, metals, and more. P-11 / AP112 – Fiber-filled bond & fill; strong adhesion for deep repairs before fairing. P-17 – High-heat filler; handles up to ~446°F for tooling or engine areas. P-77 / AP077 – Styrene-free, easy-sanding filler; heat resistant to ~392°F.
How do I catalyze and use F206 LF/LM Fairing Compound, and what’s the working time?
Catalyze F 206 LF/LM with MEKP at about 1% at 77°F (25°C) (keep within 1–2%). Expect gel time of 3–6 min for LF and 8–12 min for LM (100 g mass). Adjust MEKP for temperature (slightly more in cooler temps, less when warmer). Do not use below 65°F (18°C). The LM version has a color indicator to confirm a thorough mix. Apply with a spatula/trowel; allow to cure fully before sanding. Use PPE and good ventilation.
Awlgrip Marine Topcoats & Finishing Systems
What are the mix ratios for Awlgrip rolling and tipping?
2 parts paint, 1 part H3002, reduce 10-33%
What is the mix ratio for spraying Awlgrip?
1 part paint, 1 part G3010, reduce 0-25% with T0003
Gelcoat vs. Awlgrip: A Comprehensive Comparison for Marine Finishes
Gelcoat is a resin-based coating that is typically used as the outer layer of fiberglass composite structures. It provides a smooth, durable, and glossy finish. Awlgrip is a brand of polyurethane paint designed for marine applications. It is used as a topcoat to provide a durable, long-lasting finish.
How to Use Awlgrip 545 Epoxy Primer: A Comprehensive Guide
Awlgrip 545 Epoxy Primer is a high-performance primer used to prepare surfaces for painting. It offers excellent adhesion and corrosion protection. To use it, clean and sand the surface, apply the primer in even coats, and allow it to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions before topcoating.
What is Awlgrip Fairing Compound used for?
Short answer: Awlgrip fairing compound is used to smooth and shape surfaces before priming and painting.
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