Hull restoration and paintwork
Restoring the hull makes sense when the gelcoat has cracks, discolouration, a dull surface or damage that has to be told apart from problems in the laminate. The scope is set once the substrate and the aim of the work are known — from a local repair to renewing the whole coating.
Work on the hull can include cleaning, repairing damage, preparing the substrate, choosing a coating or polishing. Before a method is chosen, it must be established whether the defect is superficial or connected with moisture, a crack or an earlier repair.
When the scope of work is justified
Isolated scratches or local chips may call for a different approach than widespread dulling, blisters or crazing. If osmosis or damage to the laminate is suspected, the cause needs diagnosing first; renewing the outer layer should not mask it.
What to prepare for the assessment
- photos of the whole topsides in daylight and close-ups of the damage,
- information about previous painting, repairs or polishing, if known,
- the dimensions of the area and whether the boat is ashore and available for inspection.
What affects the initial quote
What matters most is the area, the type of substrate and coating, the number of places needing repair, access to the hull and any work that has to come before painting. An initial quote based on photos is only indicative and may need correcting once the substrate has been assessed.