Small scratches and chips in the gelcoat are worth repairing right away, before moisture reaches the fiberglass underneath.
When a repair is needed
A surface scratch, star crack or small chip usually doesn't affect the hull's structural strength, but an open spot lets moisture into the laminate, which can lead to osmosis damage over time. Deeper damage that reaches the laminate always needs a more careful repair and a proper drying time.
Surface scratches vs. deeper damage
Surface scratches and small dings are usually repaired with a gelcoat repair kit, which includes gel, hardener and the tools you need. Deeper damage reaching the fiberglass is first built up with polyester resin and only finished with gelcoat afterwards.
Matching the colour
Gelcoat surfaces fade over time in the sun, so tint a new repair to match the surrounding surface using repair fillers and pigments. Even a slight colour mismatch shows easily on a glossy surface.
Finishing with polish
Sand the cured repair smooth with progressively finer sandpaper and finish with boat waxes and polishes so the repair blends into the surrounding surface. See also our guide to painting your hull and bottom if the hull needs more extensive work.
Summary
• Repair even small scratches promptly so moisture doesn't reach the laminate.
• Deep damage is built up with polyester resin first, surface damage goes straight to a gelcoat kit.
• Match the repair colour carefully and finish with polishing.
