I ordered the gelcoat to repair the minor damage on the bottom of my boat and have been watching a few DIY Youtube videos on the subject. Some of them used a Dremel to clean out and feather spider cracks and holes. Some used a grinder to take gelcoat down to glass and added a layer of 1-1/2 oz mat. All of them had a mix of conflicting comments claiming not enough was done, too much was done, and good job!
What I didn’t find was a trick that someone told me years ago about using clear overhead projector sheets of a particular kind to put over the repair area while curing. Once cured the sheet could be peeled off and little to no sanding was required. Especially on the bottom of the hull.
Aww the internet. Folks love to hate. Get on some of the trade posts and you’ll see all kinds hate. It’s beyond pathetic.
Some are warranted, but most is just ridiculous.
Unfortunately I don’t have anything to offer though. I haven’t done much Gel Coat repair work.
I’ve never heard about that particular tip. I know boat repair/building requires a ton of sanding and anything you can do to mitigate that is much appreciated. I’d find something to do a test on before the real deal. Good luck and let us know how it turns out if works or not.
I have only done a handful of minor gel coat repairs. The kit I have used is made by evercoat. Comes with a clear film to cover/smooth area while it hardens. Film comes off easily. If you get it right, minimal to no sanding needed. Although I think this particular formula has an ingredient to keep film from sticking. Wax maybe?
I don’t see why the projector film wouldn’t work similarly.
Might try 3” packing tape. I’ve been using it when I fill holes with epoxy when I want them flat to adjacent areas. The issue is you probably want it proud (high) so you can sand it flush prior to buffing. I’ve used peel ply as well but leaves a textured surface.