gelcoat question

[triton 496]

Greetings to everyone in this forum,
I have a question about an article posted in Good Old Boat issue of October 2007. The author Brian Cleverly describes the use of gellcoat over epoxy deck repair using a System Three product that would allow the bonding of a gelcoat to an epoxy deck repair. Here is the question, would gelcoat be a better long lasting surface than a two part epoxy paint, any thoughts on this idea?

[Triton 185]

would gelcoat be a better long lasting surface than a two part epoxy paint, any thoughts on this idea?

I just had a conversation with a glass guy who is going to spray my topsides for me. He said that he prefers to use gel coat on the deck instead of other products because he says it will wear better.

I would like to hear more about the gellcoat over the expoxy.

[triton 496]

Grettings Triton 185,
In the article written by Brian Cleverly he states that System Three manufactures a special epoxy (SB-112) that acts as a bond between normal epoxy and polester. This makes it possible to use gelcoat over an epoxy repair. Also in his article he mentions the use of a textured paint roller to give a proper non-skid surface that will outlast two part epoxy paints. Overall this seems like the best long term option for deck repair, I was just looking for some feedback to see if the idea rings true.

[Tim]

Paint is not perfect; gelcoat is not perfect. Each system has legitimate reasons for considering it; each system has pitfalls associated with it, and each has its own unique application characteristics and techniques that have to factor into your decision as well. Ultimately the choice is not as cut-and-dried as basic longevity or similar factors. Make your choice based on a collection of sound information, whichever way you end up going.

In any event, here's more information on the SB-112 resin.

Link: Technical Data Sheet for SB-112 Epoxy Resin