Polyester or Epoxy

A bit more specific please...How extensive of a repair? Does the boat have a gel coat? What is your objective - a long term restoration or just a patch?

Matt
 
Yes, it has gel coat on it. I am just digging into the project, so I am not sure how extensive the repairs will be. Lets say that I was going to reskin the hull with 12 oz biaxle.
 
Just curious as to what your objective was. I have patched small areas, used gel coat, and preserved the original look gloss (pain in the butt). Or sand aggressively, patch weak/damaged areas, epoxy, glass, and then paint the complete bottom. I have done both depending on preference of the boat owner. I used to work in a boat shop as a part time job specializing in repairing fiberglass boats and other items.

I assume this is a boat with out a wood or plywood core.

Matt
 
When you prep the boat by sanding it is important to have "toothie" or rough enough surface that is clean (use acetone) to increase the strength of the bond between the old and new. I would be fairly aggressive in sanding.

Matt
 
Epoxy only.... Why - most glass hulls are poly or vynelester materials, which are "usually/sometimes" compatible with poly resin materials. Epoxy based materials (boat hull) may accept poly resin (not for the long run), but it is a crap shot. Epoxy is the way to go with any repairs for a sure match of strength and adhesive to the repair.
 
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Poly fix on poly = Fine
Poly fix on Vynelester = Fine
Poly fix on epoxy = not a good idea
epoxy fix on poly = great
epoxy fix on vynelester = great
 
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My wife interuped me and I pressed send too soon. Alot of guys on this forum have boats made of glass over wood and in that case epoxy is a must. If you want a detailed answer to your question then give as much information as posible. Unless the entire bottom is bad then glassing the whole bottom wouls be a waste of time and money. Fix what needs to be fixed and enjoy. Now I'm done.
 
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