Spider cracks in gel coat are pretty much cosmetic, but they do indicate thatthe spot has been under strain or subject to impact at that point, Very often the strain comes from the gel coat itself. If it is applied too thickly, expansion and contraction of the hull due to temp will cause gel coat cracking. Spider cracks are a form of fiberglass damage that occurs from minor flexing or impacts. They can occur in any form of fiberglass, including cars, boats and swimming pools.
Small cracks form in the outer surface of the fiberglass, spreading out from a central point like a spiderweb. These cracks do not affect the structural integrity of the fiberglass, but are an aesthetic issue.
Fortunately, spider cracks are not difficult to repair. Sand the damaged area with grit sandpaper to roughen the surface.
You can sand by hand or with an electric sander. Pull all of the loose bristles out of a cheap paint brush. Loose bristles may become embedded in the gelcoat. Measure a small amount of gelcoat, which is a thick form of fiberglass resin, into a paper bucket. Sand the damaged area with grit sandpaper to roughen the surface. You can sand by hand or with an electric sander. Mask off the area around the cracks with masking tape and plaster to protect against drips. Pull all of the loose bristles out of a cheap paint brush.
Loose bristles may become embedded in the gelcoat. Measure a small amount of gelcoat, which is a thick form of fiberglass resin, into a paper bucket.
If the fiberglass will be exposed to water, the gelcoat should be marine grade. Mix catalyst into the gelcoat following the instructions on the container. Precision is important: if you add too much catalyst the gelcoat will cure faster than it can be used, but if you add too little it won't cure at all.
Brush a thin layer of gelcoat onto the sanded area, feathering it out a bit onto the surrounding fiberglass surface. Allow the gelcoat to sit for three hours, then spray it lightly with Polyvinal Alcohol to help it fully cure.
Sand the area with grit sandpaper to begin smoothing it. They tend to happen on most boats. Why not find out if Sea-doo covers them for new products. If not I wouldn't pay a damn thing. Yep, the hull is flexing causing the spider cracks in the gel coat. TheFisher , Jul 27, You must log in or sign up to reply here. Show Ignored Content. Similar Threads. Replies: 8 Views: Jeff in Boston Jan 11, at PM. Replies: 32 Views: Rumars Nov 22, Replies: 53 Views: 1, Replies: 17 Views: 1, First Boat May 6, Replies: 8 Views: 1, Mr Efficiency Apr 11,
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