After you’ve applied a sufficient amount of wax, it is recommended that you use polish to remove the pitted surface of wax. Use a soft cloth to apply polish and rub in a circular motion as you did with the wax. The end result should be a glass-like finish. Apply another coat of wax to protect this surface. If you find your fiberglass extremely weathered and polish unable to restore its luster, try using stronger abrasives to remove the dirt and grease from the surface.

For those looking to save time and perform more regular maintenance on their fiberglass gelcoat, there are tools such as an electric buffer that will cut the time of waxing and polishing in half. There is also what is called restorers which claim to streamline the process of restoring fiberglass gelcoats. Although these do work to a certain extent, different brands have been known to flake and wear off. Some have even been known to discolor on occasion. There are different variations of restorers, but many recommend the same process as listed above.

For those looking to protect their boat from the elements for years to come and maintain the shine of a well maintained boat, protecting the gel coat is absolutely essential. By repeating this process weekly, monthly, or whenever you start to see your gelcoat fading, it is possible to extend the life of the fiberglass gelcoat, and potentially the life of your boat.

Most boats you see will have a gel coat on the outside giving them the shine and protection from elements that boats need so badly. The ultra high glossy effect that most boats have is the result of a highly polished gel coat, and with the right treatment, you can keep items with fiberglass gel coat looking brand new all of the time.

Time and exposure will begin breaking down the protective barrier of the coat, leaving it dull and flakey. However, the beauty of fiberglass gelcoat aside from its ability to protect is the fact that it’s easily restored using simple to follow steps. The first step to restoration for fiberglass gel coat is similar to the first step of any restoration-cleaning. Add a cup of detergent to a gallon of warm water and use a sponge to thoroughly clean the entire surface. It’s also important to repair any cracks or inconsistencies in the coat for it to retain its integrity and keep from falling apart.

Secondly, it’s important to strip the gel coat of harmful grease and other substances that can break it down or cause it to appear dull. Also for waxing process, it’s important to remove any grease that may result in uneven distribution of the wax. Completely degreasing the surface of the gel coat will make it much easier to complete the next steps. Wipe the surface with a rag soaked in MEK or acetone, remembering to replace it when you run out of clean areas. During both of these processes it’s important that you protect your hands by wearing rubber gloves.