Tips For Repairing Your Fiberglass Boat: What You Should Know
As a fiberglass boat owner, it's important that you understand the proper techniques for assessment of damage and the right repair steps, too. Fiberglass boats need proper attention, especially if they're damaged, because any kind of water penetration can put the boat at risk of sinking. You need to be sure that your boat is in good condition at all times to keep it seaworthy. Here are some of the things that you need to understand before you dismiss that fiberglass body damage as no big deal.
Know The Severity Of The Damage
The first thing that you need to think about is objectively how severe the damage is. Fiberglass boats can suffer damage of various degrees, including surface cracking that's just cosmetic or deeper, structural cracks that are far more serious.
You need to assess the cracks that you are dealing with and be practical about determining how severe that damage is. This is important to determine because it will also help you to select the proper repair and treatment path.
Consider Professional Repair
Whether you're dealing with surface cracking or even structural crack issues, you should consider reaching out to a local boat repair contractor instead of trying to do it yourself. Professional repairs can make all the difference in the quality of the bond and the structural integrity of the fiberglass.
You'll have to be sure that the damaged area is properly prepared, including adequate cleaning and sanding to ensure bonding. This is best left to a professional unless you have some training and know what to look for in terms of the surface condition.
Opt For Larger Area Repairs When Possible
Even when you're dealing with small cracks, it's important for you to consider possibly doing the repairs on a larger scale. The more surface area that you have involved in the repair, the stronger the bond is likely to be on the fiberglass filler. That means a better chance at success long-term with the repair, which prolongs your boat's usable life.
Ask About Quality Repair Materials
Whether you're buying materials to do the job yourself or you're hiring a repair technician, the quality of the repair materials is equally important. Make sure that you choose a resin material and a fiberglass filler product that are the highest possible quality. Remember that taking the most affordable route isn't always the best solution. Instead, be willing to spend extra to get the products that will seal the damage properly the first time.
These are some of the things that you should know ahead of time before you deal with boat fiberglass repair. Talk with a repair contractor today for more help.
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