Gelcoat vs paint reddit. Gel coat is fairly thick; not like paint.

Gelcoat vs paint reddit In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about hull paint vs. And removes like a standard nail polish) So I'm starting my gel nail journey, and I'm slightly confused. The mohair and similar products leave subtle stipple, and gives the next best type of finish, when not involving a machine to apply paint. Feb 23, 2025 · There are plenty of good value compounds/polishes marketed at ‘correcting’ car paint with descriptions of what ‘hardness’ paint they are suitable for. The previous owner used some kind of nasty white roll on paint that just looked horrible so for the past two days I've been sanding it back down to the original gel coat color. If you use epoxy in a mold, you have to wax it perfectly, because the tiniest spot of epoxy touching will stick like crazy. My question is do I need a primer for the regular base coat? I ordered the Venalisa one. 3rd round, removed the Orly Glosser round 2 and reapplied paint. I know there is a regular gel base coat and then there are bases like rubber and builder. You can paint over gelcoat but I think to gelcoat you'll want to remove the paint. What is the canoe made of? Neither composite nor ABS/Royalex canoes should really be painted - you won't ever get good adhesion and the paint will flake/scratch off. Gel coat is actually a two-part tintable resin. Gelcoat is cheaper (any polyester base is cheaper), but also there are differences in application. The boat has been buffed before to no avail. There are some spots where I sanded too much and I've exposed what you can see as part of the fiberglass. That’s the fiberglass resin. My recommendation would be to paint it. I've been researching and it comes down to two options: Fill the deep cracks, sand with 220, prime, sand lightly, spray with Interlux Topside or Interlux Ok, for the sake of argument let's say I don't give a hoot what my boat looks like & I can live with chalky rub-off. What brands do you go to? Especially for builder gels and base and top coats. To my experience the foam works orders of magnitude better. If they are deeper than that, fill them with polyester putty first, let it cure, then add the gelcoat. Reply reply r/Nerf 2nd round, removed the Orly Glosser and reapplied paint - this time not allowing it to fully dry and instead be slightly wet like the Seche Vite. Make an informed choice for your vessel’s finish and lift its style on the Canadian waters. Can two part paints be sprayed? I also like the idea of rolling on. This is a reddit forum to discuss different Chemical Guys products, how to’s and general vehicle detailing questions. Using a marine rubbing compound and foam allowed to take off in one pass what took me 2-3 with a wool bonnet. You will have to do at least 3 coats (sanding in 120g [if needed] and 220g in between coats) because you will have burn throughs/ not enough thickness. I’m no expert at all but as I understand it, “gel” refers to any nail medium that requires curing under led/iv light. Gelcoat and boat paint are two of the most used coatings for boats, but what are their differences? Which one should you use? In this blog post, we’ll explore and compare the features of gelcoat and boat paint to help you make an informed Goof Off (original) is a petroleum distillate, based on terpene which is similar to turpentine. If you do acrylic or soft gel, you might like hard gel better. Gel coat is a lot of work out of the mold. I know some of these are just higher or lower viscosity, but what are the others for? Jan 19, 2020 · Hello, I want to restore a bass boat that has a very faded color within the gel coat. . But it got me thinking, are these two products the same? Almost no UV gel nail products I see list the ingredients within, but one overseas website lists resin as the only ingredient in their UV no wipe top coats. Dec 19, 2023 · When it comes to boat repair and maintenance, choosing the right kind of coating is crucial to ensure the longevity and overall aesthetics of your vessel. cleansing isn’t really a big deal and I prefer the results of super shiny regular top coats so I Jun 20, 2024 · I saw a lot of boats with bad paint jobs where paint is flaking off after a while and i believe that gelcoat bond much better to gelcoat that paint does. Im just getting started and I have a few questions for people using separate application brushes to do their liquid base coats, gel colors and top coats (as opposed to using the brush that is built into the bottle). If you really don't have the budget or it's a total beater of a canoe you don't care about then Superdeck makes oil based transparent and semi transparent stains as well as hybrid oil/latex solid stains (clean up with water) as well as elastomeric deck and dock paint which is what OP mentioned first. I use the foam pads from 3M or comparable. My preference is to start using Gel X. Jul 28, 2025 · Choosing between gelcoat and boat paint isn’t a decision you should take lightly—it affects your boat’s longevity, performance, and even its resale value. -The Gelcoat is a more involved process especially with big patches. Speed setter, gel setter, or good to go? I’m really bad at waiting for my nails to dry, and actually hated painting them until I discovered Seche Vite. Keep your fiberglass sealed from moisture ingress. It was a game changer! But the shrinkage drives me crazy. But spraying gelcoat needs a lot of experience, particularly the mixing with the wax to avoid a horrible sticky mess so i absolutely don't recommend that for a non expert in gelcoat use. Doing large areas of gel coat is going to be extremely labor intensive. You can prevent this by using a fender when docked. Give it a thorough scuff sand with 120-220 so you have a mechanical bond between the paint and the resin/glass. How to paint over my gel coat? I've been working on my boat. My main question is, whether anyone could share tips, tricks, rules, and so on about their experience with Gel X? My small questions are: Does Gel X damage your nails? What products do you recommend? Can I do In my experience, I rolled with a 4” foam roller and it leaves a lot of air bubbles, which is a big problem with dark colors with a high sheen. gelcoat, including their properties, applications, maintenance requirements, and which one is better for your Paint with Sherwin Williams Emarald Urethrane Trim Enamel (Semi-Gloss vs Satin) (or any other paint recommendations?) -Plan to use various Zibra paint brushes or are there better methods? -Plan to do at least 3 coats (should I sand with 220 grit sanding sponge inbetween coats?) What do you guys think? Nov 27, 2023 · Learn about the different types of paint for gelcoat surfaces, including epoxy, polyurethane, and acrylic paint, and how to choose the right one for your project. If the We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. It’s not ideal but it’s fine. The "paint" on a fiberglass boat is actually gel coat. What to you guys think I noticed after using both they smell pretty much identical, but UV gel for nails doesn't smell as strong, I'd guess due to thinner application. Gel coat!!!! Bottom paint just keeps marine life off. In this article, we will dive into the details between gelcoat vs paint, compare the two, and ultimately which one you should choose, especially when it comes to things like water slides, pools and boats where the surface is constantly exposed to water and friction. I’m general I’m not a fan of stain work, but they look so fake in my opinion. I don’t think you’d want a no cleanse base coat because the color coat can stick to the inhibition layer and then it will cure with the color. There is also plexigel (like hard gel in a polish bottle but a bit softer) and polygel (cross between gel and acrylic). Epoxy will stick to gelcoat, but gelcoat will not stick to epoxy. Are there any reasons why I should restore or strip and replace my gelcoat and hull paint? I'm relatively new to composites, but am slowly learning the basics. I’m pretty sure I need a high yielding primer that also has a protectant to it. I buy at a auto paint store. It doesn’t look to be structurally compromised, so you’re probably ok to recoat it however you see fit. Gel coat is fairly thick; not like paint. I’ve had very poor performance from wool bonnets on gel coat. You’re going to miss out on the chemical bond between the gelcoat and the resin. Jun 20, 2024 · Has anyone here been happy with having paint on your GW instead of a gel coat? At this point anything will look better, but I also have reservations with using paint since I don't know anyone firsthand who has paint on their boat. Theres regular expoxy, "tabletop" epoxy, laminating epoxy, "coating" epoxy, clear coats, gel coats, vacuum infusion epoxy, etc. Considering wet sanding and gel coating/ painting our new boat… any recommendations or online guides you would suggest? These are pics of the crazing damage we have. But like I said, it looks like a repair was already made there, so it Gelcoat vs. Whether you’re looking for durability, ease of maintenance, or cost-effectiveness, understanding the differences between boat hull paint and gelcoat will help you make the best choice. Finishes like gel coats have a reputation for their performance; however, can you add another layer of a different finish to them? Like, can you paint over gelcoat? In this post, I’ll answer the question of whether you can paint over gelcoat and why you should paint it; please keep reading for more… Gelcoat is the most popular surface coating for fiberglass-reinforced products. Oct 13, 2011 · Paint verse Gel coat Gel coat is certianlly more durable. Reply reply r/Nerf I want to tell you all the reasons why hard gel is my favorite thing to put on my nails. My understanding is that if you don't have a structural issue with the fiberglass - no cracks, bubbles, or visible breaking down of the fiberglass itself, you just need to replace the gel coat. How do you get the liquid gel polish from the bottle and onto your nail? Especially if it's a wider brush and a small bottle, it isn't just going to dip in there What do you use to Oct 31, 2023 · Discover the nuances of boat aesthetics with our guide on Gel Coat and Marine Paint. ? Tips, tricks, and info about Ohora semi-cured gel nail kits. (At least that’s what it looks like) The gelcoat is what’s worn away. Are two part paints epoxy based (or compatible with epoxy)? I thought I read that some two part paints (polyester?) can’t be applied over epoxy. These just set like a normal polish but a bit faster. Because gel coat isn't glue, it works well sprayed into a mold, because it can be separated later easily. I will have a professional helping me however I am unsure of using gel coat or topside paint. You need it if you’re going to use chrome powders. gelcoat, including their properties, applications, maintenance requirements, and which one is better for your specific boating needs. Waited for fully dry nails and used OPI Top coat. My goal: Either a slate blue or grey paint or a more neutral walnut stain. When shot out of the mold it has to be color sanded to acheive that smooth finish. You can indeed use gel as I'm looking for advice on whether I should paint or gel stain my dated, cherry-red, builder's grade (at least partially laminate) kitchen cabinets. What are the pros and cons of Gelcoat vs topside paint? Which one will hold up to many years of Gel coat is formulated to remain tacky after cure for chemical bonding to the resin/fiberglass layer. Some factors: -Will a gel stain work on this already med/dark wood? I see the General Finishes Java gel stain on every post about this and it looks way too dark for me. *This is not an official group and we are not affiliated with Vanity Table/Ohora. If the Mar 31, 2007 · Doug is right about the no stick The reason is that gelcoat is polyester and marine tex is epoxy. The wax in solution rises to the surface of the gel as it exotherms so it takes on a dull non sticky surface appearance. This morning I made the big-headed decision that I'm going to start doing my own nails when they regrow and strengthen (acrylics messed them up). Hard to say what you should do as it looks like a repair has already been made there. Jan 20, 2020 · paint is intended to go over something, gelcoat was intended as a mold release , however many many folks have sprayed rolled brushed gelcoat to redo their boats, best imho is 2 part urethanes called single stage paints , i also use raptor liner tons on stuff , if its gonna get beat up go with raptor liner if it's gonna be a show boat go with 2k urethanes personal favorite is delfleet from ppg I use base coat on my natural nails then use Mylee's 5 in 1 builder gel to glue clear tips on then paint as normal and they last sooo much longer than normal glue! I'm looking for advice on whether I should paint or gel stain my dated, cherry-red, builder's grade (at least partially laminate) kitchen cabinets. One thing thats really thrown me off is the random difference you see in epoxys. marine paint, for their boats since both options have their advantages and downsides. The grits I mentioned take very little off. I’d like to try something new and I see all of these Essie ones recommended. The hull has completely faded from years of outside storage and has more scratches than clear spots. If you get new fiberglass, you will be getting a new gel coat as well - your choice isn't gel or fiberglass, it is gel only or fiberglass and gel. If they are the same, then isn't this The no wipe top coat formulas don’t leave behind an inhibition layer that needs to be cleansed. Most boat owners have a dilemma about a better choice, gel-coat vs. Keep a small stream of water running to keep the paper from clogging up. ? I’ve faired some areas but there are very tiny holes in the fiberglass in many areas and I don’t think you’re supposed to fair the whole thing. Go with gelcoat as long as the gouges are no deeper than the cloth or matt. I think I misunderstood what gel coat was and thought any two part paint was gel coat. Or eventually it’ll delaminate and that’ll be a bad day. I use a X pattern with early grits, transition to straight strokes and finish with circular, but the Finesse-it takes it to a polished finish. it will soften paint and dissolve many types of plastics such as vinyl/PVC. Gel was designed to cure against the side of a mold thus giving you a nice smooth surface. Lots of work! I've applied this exact product to bare wood and to GF gel coat finish. I am aware of Madam Glam but it always helps to have a variety since Oct 28, 2022 · If the gelcoat can't be saved, do you replace the gelcoat? Or do you opt for painting? Here's all you need to know about replacing or painting over gelcoat! I have a Porter Cable random orbital. I get a lot of customers wanting water based stains like minwax wood finish, but I feel like they always come out looking bad. Topside Paint? It's time to so something about my 25 year old kevlar canoe. The umbrella that is “gel” includes gel polish (colours), base gel (used for overlays) and hard gel (used for extensions). I am only painting the sides of the boat plus the inside of the boat walls. Paint is much easier to apply but less durable. Which is your favorite? Have trouble making up your mind about gelcoat vs marine paint? Read this to gain a clearer perspective. Filler with gelcoat works well but won't get as smooth so you often need to do a thin top coat of gelcoat after which is why alot of pros just use thickened resin to fill the deep scratches. I’ve used mohair covers and have had great results, but it won’t look identical to a spray finish. While it That whole Gel Couture line is absolutely wonderful (Edit for anyone who hasn’t used it: their Gel Couture Top Coat and polishes are not like the salon gel that needs a UV light to dry and are a pain in the ass to get off. It still warped after a few hours post application. Mar 31, 2007 · Doug is right about the no stick The reason is that gelcoat is polyester and marine tex is epoxy. Thank you. The projects are about 1 year old, but they haven't had any issues. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between gelcoat and boat paint, their pros and cons, and guide you through making the best choice for your vessel. Discussion/Question Share Add a Comment Sort by: Top Open comment sort options Best Top New Controversial Old Q&A blue-jay-walker •• Edited That’s not the gelcoat. I recently found out I've developed an allergy to HEMA in nail products. ABS should be a solid color throughout the skin material, and composite boats are either plain resin or (usually) a polyester gelcoat. Their pricing was less than 1/2 a specialty marine I decided I wasn’t going to use gel coat, I was told to use oil based paint. So the question arises how does the hardness of car paint compare to gelcoat??? Is gelcoat harder or softer than your average car paint? Mar 20, 2024 · Although most new boats come with gel-coating, you have two options when it comes to repairing your vessel, re-painting or re-applying gel coat. Show off your nails, share your experiences, and commiserate about your bank account.