gel coat or epoxy?

[remus]

I have some rotten wood on my 84 sportcraft and am planning on replacing it with plywood. The areas that are rotten are mostly cosmetic (side panels of cockpit, panel covering bilge/transom area). The original wood is some sort of laminated plywood but is in bad shape. I would like to repalce it with something more weather proof. Would it be best/easiest to coat it with epoxy resin and then paint or gel coat it. It's just a fishing boat so nothing fancy is necessary, just looking for a easy/cheap but effective answer. Thanks for any suggestions.

 

[Omega-1]

Re: gel coat or epoxy?

Remus,<br />I would suggest that you get a piece of marine grade plywood, cut it to shape and sand it, then coat it with epoxy resin on all sides and edges. Let it cure, recoat any areas which need touch up and let cure. Then paint it to the color desired using marine grade topside paint. Where ever you plan to drill holes to mount the board, place marine grade silacone or polyurethane in the hole and on the screw threads, mount it, wipe away the excess sealant. If you plan to paint the screws, then do not use silacone sealant but use polyurethane sealant which can be sanded and painted once cured. This should give you a repair with several years of good service. Good luck, be safe!

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: gel coat or epoxy?

Dont use gelcoat.If you use extra thinners in the epoxy it will soak in better.Epoxy is the way to go.Charlie

 

[remus]

Re: gel coat or epoxy?

Thank you gentlemen, I'll be picking up some epoxy today.