Interested in your opinion of Gel Coat Labs

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Mark

Are you familiar with this product - how does it compare to the science behind your products. Hoping to make a decision in the near future for restoration of my C36. A health care system for gel coat finishes. We really like this product because it's a holistic approach to total gel coat care. Most gel coat compounds are thinly disguised automotive products not specifically designed for gel coats. Gel Coat Color Restorer/Fiberglass Compound was designed from the ground up as a gel coat product. It was formulated specifically for the unique characteristics of gel coats. Unlike paint, gel coat is porous. Seen under a microscope, the smooth, glassy finish on your boat is millions of tiny holes or pores. The walls of these pores gradually breakdown from exposure to ozone and ultraviolet light, filling with oxidized resin molecules called "chalk". This chalk eventually turns the entire outer surface a dull, opaque color. Micro-debris, marine scum and salt residues also collect in the pores accelerating the oxidation process. Traditional compounds primarily address the effects of oxidation (chalky finish) not the cause of oxidation ( resin residues and micro-debris in the pores). While compounding temporarily restores gloss, oxidation is still continuing under the surface. Gel Coat Color Restorer/Fiberglass Compound contains a fine jewelers rouge to restore the gel coat's original gloss and vitality. It effectively pulls dead, oxidized resins off the surface revealing a healthy, fresh resin layer. During application, proprietary cleansing oils penetrate the newly revealed layer thoroughly cleansing surface pores. These oils aid in surface lubrication during buffing and soothe the finish in the same manner as a hand lotion on chapped skin. Everything except pads are included. Each package contains: 16 oz. of Gel Coat Color Restorer/Fiberglass Compound. This is enough to treat a 25 ft boat above the waterline. A Microfiber applicator pad A Microfiber buffing cloth Instructions Application Instructions: Personal watercraft (jet skis, etc.) can be compounded and buffed by hand. Small to medium size craft with light oxidation can be restored using a dual-action polisher like the Porter Cable 7424 using an 6-1/2 inch, Gel Coat Compounding Pad (not included in the package). For best results, especially on larger craft or vessels with moderate to heavy oxidation, apply Gel Coat Color Restorer/Fiberglass Compound using a circular polisher and an 8-1/2 inch, Gel Coat Compounding Pad (not included in the package). Wipe Gel Coat Color Restorer/Fiberglass Compound over a 3 sq. ft. area using the Microfiber applicator pad. If using the Porter Cable 7424 polisher, set the speed control to 4. If using a circular polisher, set the speed to 1500 rpm. Place the Gel Coat Compounding Pad on the surface and turn the machine on. Move the machine over the surface in an up and down, back and forth, figure-8 motion until gloss is restored. Buff off residues by hand using the Microfiber buffing cloth. Wipe compound over a 3 sq. ft. area. Compound at 1500 rpm. For detailed application instructions, click on Gel Coat Lab's Application Guide. After treatment, the gel coat will have the same, glassy finish it had when it was originally removed form the mold. It is now ready for sealing. Finish with a coat of Gel Coat Lab's Gel Coat/Fiberglass Micro-polish and Sealant. Buff off residues by hand. Note: Part # GCL-POL includes compound, a Microfiber applicator, a Microfiber buffing cloth and full instructions. Larger vessels may require additional compound. Part #GCC-16 is additional compound only (16 oz.). This additional compound does not come with an applicator, buffing cloth or any instructions.
 
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Jim Willis

Where can I get a sample to try? .....

is there a website? I am always trying comparisons, Even did one with an Australian product that claimed wonders. All I have seen are acrylics. IG System is designed to replace regular waxing and is NOT an acrylic. They sometimes may be used together, however. I know of no product that claims it can be wiped on to protect new boats, except our Mirror Hard Superglaze. Hope to write a non-garbled comparison with regards to compatability between products, versatility, pros and cons etc. We have a movie that should be available on the web by the weekend. Only thing missing is the complete narration and a new IG model! Are you coming to the Sail Expo in Oakland? If so try to bring a sample and we can do some tests. I hope to be there (Svendsen's booth #420) provided that my wife's health does not deteriorate again. I will have some little pieces of gelcoat, painted surfaces, metal etc for testing. Thanks Jim W
 
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Bill O'Donovan

Sounds like Island Girl

Of which there's a current post vs. Poly Glow, and very much in the Archives. I've used IG and while it's labor-intensive and frustrating it clearly closes up the pores and provides beading better than anything else. However, the finish needs repeated work.
 
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Mark

properboatcare.com

Here is the web site that I was given regarding the cleaning product Roll-Off which sounded like it cleaned similar to Pink but it is water activated. I discovered the Gel-Coat Labs products on their site. http://properboatcare.com/gelcoatlabs1.html
 
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