- Precise Gelcoat Color Matching
Attention to Detail in Color Matching
Achieving a precise gelcoat color match is a complex endeavor, and at Foster’s Yacht Services, precision is our foremost priority. With years of extensive experience, we recognize the critical significance of achieving a flawless color match for seamless fiberglass boat touch-ups.
Numerous variables come into play to attain this level of precision:
- Application Timing: The time of day during gelcoat application can influence its appearance.
- Temperature: Application temperature impacts the gelcoat’s final color.
- Gelcoat Batch Variability: Slight pigment differences in gelcoat batches contribute to color variation.
- Age of the Boat: As boats age, gelcoat fades, even with factory-sourced gelcoat, making a perfect color match challenging.
Understanding Gelcoat and Its Challenges
Gelcoat is a resin infused with a high pigment concentration, imparting color to the boat’s surface. While it boasts remarkable durability, gelcoat is susceptible to damage over time due to aging, wear and tear, and docking accidents.
The Art of Matching Gelcoats with Pigments
- Surface Preparation: Begin with thorough cleaning to ensure an accurate color match.
- Adequate Lighting: Optimal lighting conditions, preferably natural light, are essential for precise color mixing.
- Color Mixing: Start with a base-colored gelcoat (e.g., white) and gradually introduce the desired pigment (e.g., dark blue) for the closest color approximation. Periodically assess progress with small samples.
- Verification: Confirm the color match by mixing a small batch with a catalyst and applying it to a scrap piece for assessment.
- Application: Apply the mixed gelcoat to the repair area, slightly raised above the surrounding surface for sanding.
- Curing Process: Spray the gelcoat with a PVA curing agent and peel off the PVA when cured.
- Wet Sanding: Employ 320-grit wet/dry paper on a soft sanding block, focusing on the repair area. Progress to 600-grit paper for near-evenness.
- Finishing Touch: Conclude wet-sanding with 1,000-grit paper, followed by buffing with rubbing compound and sealing with a wax coat.
Trust the Experts for Gelcoat Color Matching
Foster’s Yacht Services is equipped to expertly manage the complexities of gelcoat color matching, ensuring a flawless result that seamlessly blends with your boat’s surface. Count on our meticulous approach to preserve your vessel’s pristine appearance.
- WHAT OUR CUSTOMERs SAY ABOUT US
TESTIMONIALS
Phillip Pyatt2023-08-11These guys do very good work. They repaired some fiber glass and an anchor plate along with adding a coat of paint to the hull.Yacht Pro USA2022-12-23We have used Fosters for years and its definitely the best company out there for fiberglass, paint and refits. Dennis is always professional and we highly recommend them for any needs in our yacht industry.John Marshall2022-11-21Fosters Yacht Service is my preferred company to use for yard maintenance while in Ft. Lauderdale. Dennis, Erick, and Mark know the industry and how to get things done. Fosters keeps to their word and deadline. Highly recommended.Evan Davis2022-10-11We started with Foster’s to repair some structural hull issues. They exceeded expectations with the repairs. We also had them do multiple repairs throughout the vessel from exterior paint to interior carpentry. The fit and finish have been amazing.scott adams2022-09-21As a marine industy professional it has been my direct experience to have this Group (Foster's Y/S) care for and upgrade my families Hardin 45 ketch. Everyone at Foster is a team member at Your disposal if required. We have found that Foster's high quality work in conjunction with Great customer service are the foundations found here. "Trade Winds" will be back next year for some further upgrades. Thank You for helping us sail away...Russell Gross2022-08-19Dennis Foster and his shop are amazing. My boat had extensive fiberglass damage which was made worse by another repair shop. Dennis came to the rescue. Boat came back brand new and faster than promised. If you need any fiberglass work done, don’t go anywhere else! Thank you Dennis and team!David Torchin2021-10-19I brought my 2018 Formula to Dennis Foster to make my arch collapsible and make the boat able to sneak under low bridges by my house. Dennis and his team way exceeded my expectations!!! With the press of a button, my bridge clearance is now just over 6'. His work is flawless, and his team is friendly and professional. Thank you Dennis and team for the amazing results!!
