Gelcoat repair

[Capt’nKarl]

I got a 1” ding in the gelcoat that needs to be repaired. I ordered and received a 1/2 pint of gelcoat from FM to match the original color. No guarantee it will be an exact match but should be close enough. No hardener came with the order. Do I need to add liquid hardener to this mixture when I’m ready to apply the gelcoat? Any and all suggestions welcome.

 

[BB marine]

Yes you need to use a hardener. Use a liquid hardener for polyester surfacing resin. (gel coat)

 

[JamesC28]

It's been a while, but I remember adding Waxol to gel-coat when doing repairs. Helps with the surface curing. Maybe that's old school now.

 

[nzfisher]

They cannot ship catalyst for some reason. Isolating the final coat from ambient moisture will aid curing the Surface to enable easier finish work. If it will not distort your finish coat into a hollow, wax paper or Syran wrap will Work. By doing this to You might avoid the sticky uncurled surface. If you can get dyed epoxy it’s is a better choice for a ding that large. Much less shrinkage.