Your boat’s gel coat isn’t merely an aesthetic layer. It provides a defensive layer for the underlying components of the vessel against the elements of the marine environment. It is resistant to corrosion caused by saltwater, UV radiation, and oxidation. Gel coat stops moisture from penetrating the fiberglass composite in the hull of the boat. Gel coat is critical to the longevity of the marine vessel, and many boat owners don’t realise this until they can see cracks or unwanted signs of discoloration and chalking.

## Gel Coat and Boat Protection

Gel coat is critical on a boat. When the protective barrier of the gel coat is breached due to gel coat damage and UV light degradation, water vapor can penetrate and cause swelling, delamination, blisters, and costly structural damage. Gel coat also helps maintain resale value of a boat.

## UV Radiation and Oxidation

Your boat’s gel coat is attacked by UV light. The sun causes oxidation of the gel coat, which creates a surface layer of powder that deteriorates the integrity of the protective barrier. A gel coat that is not well maintained will diminish the aesthetics of the boat while simultaneously allowing further damage to occur.

Boats experience more than normal land vehicles due to the environment they operate in. Reflected sunlight builds up UV exposure on your boat’s hull. Combine that with spray from saltwater, changes in temperature, mechanical stress from waves and wind, and you have a recurring environmental attack on the gel coat. UV rays can penetrate indoors if a boat is not covered from windows and skylights, even if your boat is somewhat sheltered.

## UV Protection Methods

### Invest in UV Blocking Sealers and Wax

The most effective solution for hull protection is to have a proactive approach for blocking sun rays. Quality UV blocking wax and sealers provide a way to absorb or reflect UV rays to protect the underlying gel coat. These types of automotive wax sealers can last six to twelve months, which is longer than standard car wax. This is because of long-term exposure to salt water and the additional stresses associated with being submerged.

### Use Physical Protective Blocks

For moored boats, a fitted boat cover is a good idea for sun protection. Nowadays, marine covers are designed with ventilation so they do not trap water and mold. Using a cover is a good idea for extended, off-season storage. At a minimum, a tarp is better than no protection. The best protection is a fitted cover.

### Clean Scratch Free

If your boat comes in contact with salt water, it is important to clean your boat. Salt water initiates the breakdown of the gel coat. Be sure to use mild soap and rinse thoroughly.

Most gel coat failure is due to lack of basic protection from the sun. The goal of your sun protection wax sealant is to not allow UV rays to dig into the bottom of your boat.

Gel Coat Damage Facts

All gel coat yachts are susceptible to the effects of environmental exposure. Gel coat damages should be addressed quickly. Cracks and small chips allow moisture to penetrate and begin deterioration of the hull in a matter of months. Hairline cracks and other small imperfections should be repaired with a gel coat touch up kit that can be purchased from marine supply stores. These kits contain color matched resin and hardener with instructions on how to use the kit. Follow the instructions to remove the top coat, apply the resin, allow to cure, sand smooth, apply topcoat paint or wax.

Professional repair is necessary for larger areas where the gel coat has deteriorated significantly or if damage is from deeply embedded chalking and/or extremely large cracks. A marine surveyor or repair professional will decide if failures require structural repairs or are just cosmetic.

Seasonal Impact

The peak gel coat protection season is summer, but winter protection is just as important. Gel coat protection during the summer can be enhanced with frequent hull waxing. Winter protection is achieved by thorough washing and covering the yacht to prevent corrosive salt water during storage. Spring protection includes thorough washing and allowing the hull to be exposed to the sun to remove any moisture that is trapped from the protective covering during winter storage.

Pro Restoration

Vessels will begin to deteriorate, especially those suffering from significant issues with the gel coat. Professional refinishing will restore the vessel’s original finish. Sanding and polishing to restore the gel coat or applying a new gel coat over damaged areas is possible with these services.

Though restorations are cost prohibitive to do on a regular basis, they are the only way to protect and extend the life of the vessel.

## Creating a Long-Term Maintenance Schedule

Regularly performing the same actions helps develop good habits. Follow this schedule to maintain your gelcoat: waxing every quarter, rinsing after every salt water outing, regular visual checks, and professional checks every two to three years. Although these are relatively small financial investments, they will help maintain the value of your craft for years to come.

Gelcoat is the skin of your investment. Understanding the effects of UV light and developing good guard against these effects and addressing issues in a timely manner will help you keep your vessel looking good and maintain its structural integrity. Gelcoat maintenance is essential, whether you are a weekend cruiser or a serious sailor. Pride in ownership is clearly reflected in a craft that has a graceful patina as opposed to a craft that shows obvious neglect over the years.