Gel coat is the outer layer of fiberglass. Its structural value is not significant. However, it gives the product its shine and color. In addition, it offers protection to the hull. Read on to know more on how to restore faded fiberglass.
Exposure and time usually erode the outer layer. This makes the item look chalky and dull. However, you do not have to worry about this because it is a problem which can be fixed easily. The initial phase is to clean the product. Lukewarm water is preferred. If possible, use some detergent and a sponge. Nevertheless, you ought to don on some gloves to protect your hands.
If mildew is present, bleach will have to be utilized in the cleaning process. Additionally, concentrated cleaning formulation should be used when stubborn stains are present. The surface should be rinsed with clean water so that all the detergent present is washed away. Thereafter, allow the item to dry off. If you are in a hurry, you can dry it manually.
Any oil present should be wiped off completely. Cleaning detergents cannot achieve this effectively. Thus, you must purchase MEK or acetone. You will have to get several cleaning clothes. Shy away from applying these formulations directly on the item. After this, you should wax the fiberglass. This is crucial because it preserves the fiberglass so that it can serve you for long.
The procedure of applying wax differs depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, you have to read the instructions given. Nevertheless, a foam pad or cloth is used in applying the wax. Proceed in circular motions. After the wax has dried, you should buff the excess using a soft piece of cloth.
Polishing follows waxing. Abrasives are needed for this task. Fine sandpaper is recommended. All pitted spots will be made smooth. Coating alone cannot achieve this. Dividing the surface in sections and tackling each at a time is advisable. Ensure you move in circles all the time. You ought to only stop when you can see your own image on the particular surface. Remember to apply a fresh coat of wax afterwards. Some polish preparations have wax.
Sometimes the product is worn significantly. In such a case, even polishing will not give back its shine. You will have to use a very strong abrasive during the scrubbing. You should remove any remaining wax on the surface before you begin polishing it. It can make the compound appear uneven. While clearing the wax, do not move up and down but rather on a straight line. Toluene or a de-waxing solution should be utilized.
The last step is application of a restorer. There are so many brands in the market. However, they mode of action is not different from that of wax. However, you do not have to buff the item after applying the restorer. The results are stunning. However, remember that the product flakes off leading to discoloration over time. Thus, you will have to do this more often.
Exposure and time usually erode the outer layer. This makes the item look chalky and dull. However, you do not have to worry about this because it is a problem which can be fixed easily. The initial phase is to clean the product. Lukewarm water is preferred. If possible, use some detergent and a sponge. Nevertheless, you ought to don on some gloves to protect your hands.
If mildew is present, bleach will have to be utilized in the cleaning process. Additionally, concentrated cleaning formulation should be used when stubborn stains are present. The surface should be rinsed with clean water so that all the detergent present is washed away. Thereafter, allow the item to dry off. If you are in a hurry, you can dry it manually.
Any oil present should be wiped off completely. Cleaning detergents cannot achieve this effectively. Thus, you must purchase MEK or acetone. You will have to get several cleaning clothes. Shy away from applying these formulations directly on the item. After this, you should wax the fiberglass. This is crucial because it preserves the fiberglass so that it can serve you for long.
The procedure of applying wax differs depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, you have to read the instructions given. Nevertheless, a foam pad or cloth is used in applying the wax. Proceed in circular motions. After the wax has dried, you should buff the excess using a soft piece of cloth.
Polishing follows waxing. Abrasives are needed for this task. Fine sandpaper is recommended. All pitted spots will be made smooth. Coating alone cannot achieve this. Dividing the surface in sections and tackling each at a time is advisable. Ensure you move in circles all the time. You ought to only stop when you can see your own image on the particular surface. Remember to apply a fresh coat of wax afterwards. Some polish preparations have wax.
Sometimes the product is worn significantly. In such a case, even polishing will not give back its shine. You will have to use a very strong abrasive during the scrubbing. You should remove any remaining wax on the surface before you begin polishing it. It can make the compound appear uneven. While clearing the wax, do not move up and down but rather on a straight line. Toluene or a de-waxing solution should be utilized.
The last step is application of a restorer. There are so many brands in the market. However, they mode of action is not different from that of wax. However, you do not have to buff the item after applying the restorer. The results are stunning. However, remember that the product flakes off leading to discoloration over time. Thus, you will have to do this more often.