Gelcoat non-skid is nenver that "non-skid" when coated with layers of drying salt water on an ocean trip (seem to remember)but waxing it would make it lethal! However,non-skid does oxidize and when oxidation starts (like rust on metal) to penetrate and form microcrevices, it is easily stained and then mildew starts up (at least in FLorida and Pac N.W.) You cannot buff out the oxidation because it lose its roughness - you have to chemically remove the chalk. In the past this could be done with oxalic acid and similar harsh chemicals. I scrub with Island Girl Pink (that selectivley dissolved oxidation) on my own boat followed by water rinsing. When dry it has great grip. Chemically removing chalk can also remove remove stains too (its actually the chalk that gets stained not the polyester). How to prevent it oxidizing again? The notion of using a non-wax floor treatment could work if the coating is very light. In fact there is one company (Aurora) that sells such a product. What I prefer to use a little of one of the ISLAND GIRL Cleanser conditioners to impregnate the surface with oxidation & mildew inhibitors, then add a little water and scrub, followed by towelling dry with an old bath towel (this is after the scrubbing with Pink) If SEA GLOW is used for this on white decking- the effects are dramatic - snow-blindness could result! On beige/cream etc use the CRYSTAL clear product. Of course smooth gelcoat should receive a wax sealant as you will not be walking on it except where those little glued on carborundum tape pieces are placed. As for visible cracks on gelcoat - as one person suggested color matched repairs are possible. I have some surface cracks too on my Gulf 32. I thought that getting some same-color gelcoat or epoxy down into the cracks might be best - but have to try it yet. Be glad to hear feedback on all of this! Jim W. of IGP