Gelcoat Cleaning
Gelcoat cleaning on a car, boat or other machine is a necessity to keep it looking new and shiny. All gelcoats will eventually fade and collect dirt and grease. These elements can collect inside the pores of the gelcoat and over time it creates a dull haze that is tarnished and dull looking. To restore life into your gelcoat, there are several methods to follow.
Normal Washing
Washing of gelcoat is recommended to remove the daily dirt that collects on your boat or car. Wash with a mild, low-acid detergent. Just apply the wash to the gelcoat directly and then rub with a cloth, sponge or towel. Rinse the gelcoat after a washing. Continue to do this every few weeks or as needed to keep the gelcoat shiny and new.
Oxidized Gelcoats
Gelcoats oxidize just like car paint and top coats. The top most layer of the coating breaks down organically in the sunlight and collects contaminants and other dirt. This entire layer needs to be removed in order to restore shine. The treatment is only effective, however, if the oxidization has not worked completely through the gelcoating. Use an oil-based gelcoat wax cleaner to remove this oxidized layer. It should not be abrasive as that will cause additional swirling on the gelcoat. A towel or buffer should be used with this type of cleaner.
Glazing and Waxing
Another product that can restore and clean gelcoat is glaze and wax paste. The paste is mixed with water and, after cleaning the boat with soap and detergent, can be applied with a towel or cloth in small sections. The glaze is worked into the boat to help restore shine. It is a little more labor-intensive but it will help revitalize the most oxidized surfaces.
Gelcoat cleaning on a car, boat or other machine is a necessity to keep it looking new and shiny. All gelcoats will eventually fade and collect dirt and grease. These elements can collect inside the pores of the gelcoat and over time it creates a dull haze that is tarnished and dull looking. To restore life into your gelcoat, there are several methods to follow.
Normal Washing
Washing of gelcoat is recommended to remove the daily dirt that collects on your boat or car. Wash with a mild, low-acid detergent. Just apply the wash to the gelcoat directly and then rub with a cloth, sponge or towel. Rinse the gelcoat after a washing. Continue to do this every few weeks or as needed to keep the gelcoat shiny and new.
Oxidized Gelcoats
Gelcoats oxidize just like car paint and top coats. The top most layer of the coating breaks down organically in the sunlight and collects contaminants and other dirt. This entire layer needs to be removed in order to restore shine. The treatment is only effective, however, if the oxidization has not worked completely through the gelcoating. Use an oil-based gelcoat wax cleaner to remove this oxidized layer. It should not be abrasive as that will cause additional swirling on the gelcoat. A towel or buffer should be used with this type of cleaner.
Glazing and Waxing
Another product that can restore and clean gelcoat is glaze and wax paste. The paste is mixed with water and, after cleaning the boat with soap and detergent, can be applied with a towel or cloth in small sections. The glaze is worked into the boat to help restore shine. It is a little more labor-intensive but it will help revitalize the most oxidized surfaces.