Introduction
If you are planning to give your boat or any other fiberglass structure a new lease of life, gel coat is the perfect solution. Gel coat is a protective coating that gives your boat a shiny, smooth finish. It is available with or without wax, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will look at both options and help you decide which one is best for your needs.
What is Gel Coat?
Gel coat is a type of resin that is used to coat fiberglass structures. It is a thick, viscous substance that is applied to the surface of the fiberglass using a spray gun or brush. Gel coat is available in a range of colors and finishes, including glossy and matte.
Gel Coat with Wax
Gel coat with wax is the most commonly used type of gel coat. Wax is added to the gel coat to help it cure and harden. The wax forms a barrier on the surface of the gel coat, preventing it from coming into contact with air and curing too quickly. This ensures that the gel coat has sufficient time to cure properly.
Advantages of Gel Coat with Wax
One of the biggest advantages of gel coat with wax is that it is easy to apply. It can be applied using a spray gun or brush, and it dries quickly. Gel coat with wax also provides excellent UV protection, which helps to prevent fading and damage caused by the sun.
Disadvantages of Gel Coat with Wax
One of the biggest disadvantages of gel coat with wax is that it can be difficult to sand and polish. The wax forms a barrier on the surface of the gel coat, which can make it difficult to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. Gel coat with wax also tends to attract dirt and grime, which can make it difficult to keep clean.
Gel Coat without Wax
Gel coat without wax is a newer type of gel coat that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This type of gel coat does not contain wax, which means that it cures differently than gel coat with wax.
Advantages of Gel Coat without Wax
One of the biggest advantages of gel coat without wax is that it is easier to sand and polish. Because it does not contain wax, it does not form a barrier on the surface of the gel coat, which means that it can be sanded and polished more easily. Gel coat without wax also tends to be more durable than gel coat with wax, which means that it can last longer.
Disadvantages of Gel Coat without Wax
One of the biggest disadvantages of gel coat without wax is that it can be more difficult to apply. It requires a different curing process than gel coat with wax, which means that it can take longer to cure. Gel coat without wax also tends to be more expensive than gel coat with wax.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both gel coat with wax and gel coat without wax have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are looking for a gel coat that is easy to apply and provides excellent UV protection, then gel coat with wax is the way to go. However, if you are looking for a gel coat that is easier to sand and polish and tends to be more durable, then gel coat without wax is the better option. Ultimately, the choice between gel coat with wax and gel coat without wax comes down to your personal preference and the needs of your fiberglass structure.