Hunter 27 Paint Or Gel Coat Repair

[jcc5169]

I have my boat! It is out of the water and at a boat yard awaiting some badly needed TLC. I have a question which I hope will elicit some discussion. The boat I have purchased needs signficant repair to the gelcoat on one side. The boat shop has proposed that I consider painting rather than gel coat with a marine paint such as awlgrip. I would like some technical input about the alternatives of gel coat repair vs top coat painting from anyone who has experienced it.

Thanks,
Chris Combs

 

[sandpiper10471]

Small repairs use gelcoat. Large areas, use paint. Gelcoat requires the same amount of prep time and an enormous amount of sanding buffing and polishing afterwards, even if sprayed. Modern paints are amazing and will last for years. However, some paints, like Awlgrip and Interthane Plus, are very difficult to blend if you ever need to do a repair. Imron, PPG and Epiphanes are two part paints that can be retouched, blended and buffed.

 

[fifedog]

Since you got your 27 at such a good price, I'd treat yourself to the awlgrip.

(If you can, post some pics - before, during and after...)

 

[Dennis Kitchen]

Ditto what Sandpiper says. Go to Interlux's web site. Some good info there. http://www.yachtpaint.com/usa/