A fiberglass boat is a great investment. They are durable and can last for years with proper care. But like anything else, they are not indestructible and will eventually need to be repaired. One of the most common repairs is patching a hole in the hull. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy repair that can be done by anyone with basic fiberglass repair skills.
The first step is to clean the area around the hole. This will remove any dirt or debris that could prevent the patch from adhering properly. Next, cut a piece of fiberglass cloth that is slightly larger than the hole. Apply a generous amount of fiberglass resin to the cloth and then place it over the hole. Use a roller or brush to smooth out the cloth and remove any air bubbles. Allow the resin to cure for 24 hours before sanding down the area and painting over it. With a little time and effort, you can have your fiberglass boat looking like new again.
A major fiberglass repair, such as patching a hole, can be a daunting task. Watching a professional do the job can help you get on the right track and be confident in doing the repair yourself. This step-by-step video tutorial produced by Sea Hawk Paints will show exactly what needs to be done when patching a hole in your fiberglass boat.
Note: Before attempting a repair by yourself, get a professional opinion. Always wears Personal Protective Equipment when sanding or working with chemical compounds! Respirator, safety glasses and gloves are always recommended.
Here is a list of products you will need for the repair:
- Hawk Epoxy Resin Kit – It contains the epoxy resin, catalyst and filler for the job.
- F5 Light Density Filler
- Biaxial Fiberglass matting
- 50 grit, 80 grit, and 100 grit sandpaper or grinding pads
Hawk Epoxy Video Tutorial
For more information see these other How To Articles:
How Do I Choose Hawk Epoxy Catalyst and Fillers?
How to Mix Hawk Epoxy Resin Properly