We have made Patreon ( www.patreon.com/FishBumpTv ) available for members who are interested in consultations on their projects. Thank you for your support!
This information is absolute gold. There are tons of boat repair videos on TH-cam but none presented so clearly and comprehensively. There will be people referencing these videos prior to attempting a repair for years.
Solid comment brother. Couldn't agree more. Such a down to earth no nonsense guy full of experience and knowledge. Can't buy this stuff. Very glad we've all found it. Amazing. So though and so much experience.
Capt. Joe, don't worry about the videos being too long. This is a very useful video that can apply to every boat owner making minor repairs to his own boat if they need too. Even though I know most of what you showed here, I enjoyed watching this one as well. You content is very good and we're enjoying it very much!
I hope you get this comment.. I have since the 1980s worked with all this and what you have showed and told was to me so amazing!... I want to say it is so good to hear someone that is Well spoken,Well capable of task at hand and willing to be patient
Don't you dare stop with the amazing videos. I wish we had teachers like you at school. Another excellent and very illustrative video session. THANK YOU! 👍
You are very welcome! Glad to help you out any way I can! We will be posting more vids related to the kind of work you are doing on Twiggy, so stay tuned.
I've watched every single glass ing video you've ever made , and followed along the way of the 2900 , your technique and explanations have improved my own skill tremendously, and has taught me to slow down and take my time and it really shows in the final product, love this channel!
I appreciate you taking the time to make the videos as they are thorough and well planned. Thanks for giving multiple options depending on the situation.
You are absolutely the best at what you do in the way you describe everything makes it easy for anyone with any common sense to get it done and save us a lot of money. Really appreciate you keep it going.
Really enjoy your channel. My father was a Naval Chief, his job was hull technician. At five years old he had me in a navy base wood shop he ran at night for the base. Today he would have been looked at as the ultimate maker. God rest his sole. I am about to make a 29.9 feet trawler to travel the loop or part of it. You should consider a new title. Professor! lol. Take care. He taught me all about wood and making with wood but left out the stuff about resin and sheet metal. Well, I learned sheet metal in the HVAC business for 20 years and later learned resin on my own. Thank you for the complete explanation format. I have an old picture of dad standing inside of a mold where he made PT 50 foot fiberglass hulls in Vietnam back in the 60's.
Wow, very interesting! Thanks so much for sharing! Sounds like a very interesting project you have planned. We see a lot of loopers come through the intra coastal waterway in our part of the Gulf coast. Looks like it would be a very enjoyable thing to do. Best of luck with your project, and thanks for watching!
Joe, I can’t express to you how awesome your teaching and knowledge has been. I am thankful for you, as you are to us as watchers! However, I can speak for some of us and say, your safety and ppe is more important. If it means you take longer or voice over when editing in post, that is completely fine. Your experience, teaching and knowledge will continue to be a tremendous value to the community, so long as you’re with us! 👍🏼
Joe is making a library of boat repair videos, not just the fixes, but clear explanations of why. I like the learning process on how to fix things the right way.
Thank so much for the “fluff free” discussion! After a weekend of you tube learning, I want to hear “just the facts.” Excellent delivery style, good camera work as well.
Capt Joe and fish bump family you make it look easy but when doing this material it really takes some where with all timing is everything and a BIG thumbs 👍 on more videos really appreciate your time !
I'm going to be repairing cracks in my hull. I have watched a ton of videos. I have watched your videos and you are my choice of teacher's. I will be following your instructions for my repairs. Thank you so much for sharing your incredible knowledge and expertise. I hope I can do as well as you making it look great.
I'm back Joe!😂 I chose to use a product from FGCI to fill in the cracks after grinding them down and properly sanding and cleaning. I absolutely love this this product it's their Gelcoat paste and it's designed for above and below water line. I had some cracks that went into the fiberglass but not through it just surface cracks I was able to grind out with a dye grinder and conical bur 1/4" at the tip to 3/4" at the base. I called FGCI whose support is awesome and asked if I should bother doing glass work or could I just fill the whole patch with the paste. They said no need to glass the product was designed to repair this type of damage. It comes in base white and can be pigmented wich I suck at! Or neutral clear and you color it with the dye of your choice. I'm going to be painting over the top of the repairs using Total Boat white gelcoat paint unwaxed first to build up some depth then waxed final coat. I'll be rolling it out so there's going to be orange peel and tip marks. I'm not sure what grit sand paper I want to start out with and how long I should use each grit before changing to a lighter grit. Like what grit should I use to knock down any orange peel? I'm thinking like 800 grit but I'm always to cautious then I'm sanding more than I need to😂.
My favorite tools for filler work tools are a waxed melamine board for mixing, a 4" dry wall knife, a drywall cheese grater for removing "b staged" excess, and cake icing spatulas for fillet shaping. If you have deep pockets Freeman Supply makes amazing fillet shaping tools. Great info as always!
Yes, all good suggestions! I actually have some tools from freeman, and some others that are very good. Maybe I will make another vid on fairing and shaping fillers in the future and use some of those tools! Thanks for watching
Your videos are some of the best info out there on the subject. If you get some time could you do a video on applying, mixing, and repairing gel coat for spider cracks on the hull. Keep up the good work.
Ild like to see a bass boat transom redo. I know you specifically do sea/inlet boats but maybe an older 80’s-90’s. Also long hull scratches or wider flatter spot like 4-6 inches or more in size.
Thanks for the suggestion. I have a 2 part gelcoat repair video series here on the channel. You will have to scroll back a good bit to find it, but they are 2 of our most popular videos. It shows gelcoat repair on scratches simular to what you are describing. Hope they help
Great job Captain Joe. Keep the videos coming , great info , technique and presentation. I honestly can't believe how fast the time flies by watching and learning. Reinforcing what I already know and filling in gaps in my knowledge or showing me new techniques and tips..Thank you!
Great video ,tips,discussion. Valuable information. Thanks! I’m doing extensive scratch damage repair from hurricane Sally. As well as thru hull work. This is helpful.
Hi Joe , big subjects and one of my favorite issues as so much miss info on fillers and fairing compounds. Despite the great job that West System has done showing how to make your own putties and filler using a ready made poly or epox product is usually way way better. If for no other reason than you get so much better consistency. The additives need time , up to 24 hrs to be fully wet out by the resin so mixing at the last minute just doesn’t give the best long term results. But as you know sometimes you just have to do what ever it takes. Great video Cheers Warren
Thank u so much for taking the time to explain all these things to us. Great content. And much love from Maryland❤❤❤. Im about to start my boat project once the weather breaks. I have to replace the flooring in my 1978 Wellcraft so your videos will def come in handy when i go to do so. I will keep u posted on that project considering i will be starting a youtube channel so we shall see lol. Just wanted to say thanks again
Thanks for the video! I really appreciate the information and the care that you employ in explaining things very well, especially for the novice diy type. I just bought an old champion bass boat that needs some screw holes repaired so this video is timed perfectly for me. Thanks.
Hats off to Logan for keeping up with you Captain! Great video as always. Please don't worry about the length. You have great content and a lot of information to get out there. Please keep up the good work. When are you going to get behind the camera and let Logan show us how he does it?
I started watching fiberglass and boat repair because my Sea Fox got a crack in the deck. I feel confident I would be able to do the repair but my wife is opting to hire a professional service. Thank you for your videos I found them to be very informative and interesting will be able to oversee and understand what gets done on our boat thank you
Glad the videos helped to understand the process of fiberglass and gelcoat repair. Nothing wrong with having the work done professionally. It it good to know when it is more than you may want take on. Thanks for watching and commenting!
The 29 is all isophthalic polyester resin, 1708 and 1808 biaxial glass over gelcoat. Probably 95 percent or more of all fiberglass boats on the market are polyester. Epoxy is still a great material, and I plan on using it in some of our future projects. Thanks for watching!
great stuff thank you. Even though fiberglass is not used on as many things outside of boats it's extremely useful and strong (Not to mention the other fibers available). The way it can be molded is very cool.
Great stuff, Joe!! Everything you put out is absolutely great info. You’re doing an awesome job of making it understandable and applicable. I appreciate that
Great video, thank you! Thank you so much for the side-by-side comparisons and highlighting pro/cons and compatibilities of materials. That's super helpful, and so many videos out there on the topic prescribe a specific product. Your test pieces are a great illustration tool, and I also appreciate your tips on cleanup and tool sourcing/maintenance. I'm still working my way back through your channel, but I'd love to see any tips you have for diagnosing what materials an existing boat in need of repairs has used and what materials might be compatible for the fixes.
Eben here from South Africa, I absolutely love your videos and am a new subscriber. Your videos are clear and concise and there is always a huge lot to learn. Thank you for putting this together. I have by accident ended up using a tomato sauce or mustard sauce squeeze bottle for my acetone, it has the little cap for the spout and seals good enough to not evaporate and they come in different sizes.
Thank you for a good video on using fairing compounds. I am stumbling thru gelcoat repairs (mostly thremal and stress cracking) on my 22 year old Beneteau sailboat. Apparently thickened gelcoat is not the best way to go when you have "demeled" out the cracks and you are trying to fair them back to flush. I guess I messed that up. Good thing I am practicing on a small removeable hatch first. Not the whole boat. This work is very frustrating and a tougher learning curve than I thought. DIYers can do it but not without some trial and error. Don't expect perfect or professional results. I know I have been and will make lots of first timer mistakes. I am hoping to cut out a few of them and avoid making an unrecoverable mess by learing from professionals. I salute those who can do this well. It ain't easy.
Glad you are enjoying the videos! Yes, there is a learning curve for sure. It is always best to practice with some inexpensive or non essential parts first if possible. Remember perfect Is really difficult, sometimes good but done is better.
Yes, I will be helping my brother with his sailboat bottom paint soon. I will try to touch on the process you are looking for soon! Thanks for watching!
The content, tips and demonstrations are very confidence building. As a drywall mudder/taper/finisher and painter by trade, I appreciate the similar techniques but I am learning what actual materials to use for canoe & kayak repairs and restoration. I dream of shop like yours to get going on my own projects. Thank-you for your videos and expertise once again. EPO
Thank you very much for your comment! The skills you have from doing drywall and paint work should make you a natural at fiberglass and gelcoat! Glad you are finding the videos helpful, and best of luck with your projects!
Always super informative!! I've been to paid trade seminars and you're spoiling us with the ease of you tube -thank you- [A request ] could you do a strength and impact test on the different finishing materials over cured lay up... ie. putties ,smoothing coat of resin, gelcoat and whatever your method with a finished great looking exterior gelcoat or paint? My ultimate goal is to make a fiberglass body for a 72 Datsun 510 -in time after a lot of practicing on smaller projects, your teaching is great. thanks Bret
Hi , thanks for your videos , I really appreciate them and watch all. I live in Australia and I am repairing my Yamaha jetski which has a nanoxcel SMC hull , which has cracked , I was going to use west system epoxy and G flex to repair , is that what you would recommend ? Any advice would be appreciated.
Dang man that was a Mouth-full(Spanky)line from Little Rascals. You are making me warm up to Poly. How can folks afford $300 a gallon for filler. I am like I said before, Not a beginner and Not a Pro. But You can make 53 minutes pass quickly and easily. Dont ever feel like you need to short cut these Videos, These are packed with well valued content. You MAY have missed a calling in Teaching. I have made or left several comments on other videos. But I can't convey how refreshing it is to watch quality installs by a Pro.
I love your content. I appreciate the step by step approach. You’re talented. I live very close to gulf shores, right across the Florida State Line. I work in roofing… if you ever need some roof work on that shop just let me know 😊
Awesome! Thank you! Yep, the shop is going to need some pretty serious repairs at some point in the near future. I had to put things off while I was building the 29. Just trying to get all of my ducks in a row before I start anything. I appreciate you watching and commenting!
@ I wasn’t busting your chops btw 😆 I’ve seen others do that to you. I was being sincere. NOTE: I have several osmotic blisters on my pwc that I’m going to dive into this winter. What’s the best process for a newbie to use to repair them?
@TruthAlledgedly24 I appreciate that! Usually with blisters, it's a matter of grinding them out down to solid material. A good solvent wipe, and some drying time, then either a vinyl ester or epoxy based repair and filler. I hope this helps and I appreciate you watching!
I don't have a video exactly on that topic, but I would imagine you could you some of the info in the filler selection video to help you. I will try to make a video on this topic soon for you guys. Thanks for Watching!
Hi captain. Thanks for helping me so much with diy on my boat. I have watched other Chanel’s and found them to technical which put me off trying. So thanks again. I do have a question for you I would like to bring my hull back to the original gel coat. But there is multi coats of anti foul. Do you have any tips as to removing the old anti foul. I now thank god I have found your Chanel. Keep up the great work.
Wow, thanks for the kind words! Glad the channel has been helpful to you! I will try to touch on the bottom paint removal methods for you the next time I have an opportunity in a video. The basics though would be to carefully remove the old bottom paint with the correct paint remover or by carefully sanding it off with a vacuum assist sander or grinder. If the gelcoat underneath is in good condition, and is thick enough it can be wet sanded, buffed and polished back to a shine. If it is in poor condition, or to thin, you would have to add more coats of gelcoat, then wet sand, buff and polish it out. I hope this helps and I wish you the best with your future boat projects!
love the videos! Idea for the future would love to see some gel coat (white or black) with a glitter over not all glitter just a dusting and then I believe it is clear over that. Just a repair section how to would be cool to see.
I'm starting to rebuild a 1975 Reinell. I want to repair and "paint" the hull (exterior) a new color. It's obviously an old gel coat. Can I paint over gel coat? What prep work is required? What type of paint should I use. And, what are the pros and cons. Would love to hear you talk about this topic even if you don't make it a full video. Thanks. Mike.
Yes, you can paint over gelcoat. The surface would need to be thoroughly clean, then sand with 220 grit paper. I like a epoxy based primer like U.S paints Awlgrip 545. Awlgrip makes a very good marine paint system that we have used with good results. I will try to touch more on that subject for you guys soon. Hope this helps, and thanks for watching!
Speaking of sanding/grinding for fiberglass work prep. there is very very little info on TH-cam (that I'm aware of) about sanding/grinding a boat for fiberglass work. meaning the gelcoat, and preparing the fiberglass for a new layer of fiberglass. If you would ever consider such a video these are the questions I have: What is the best way to grind/sand through gelcoat? I have been using a grinder with a 40grit sanding disc and I discovered how important it is to keep the grinder as flat as possible to prevent nicks. What to then do about nicks? Also, there are many difficult to sand areas on a boat. Any tools or suggests for such areas? If you read this thank you very much, I have just heard that sanding and prep is most the work and I think a thorough video about that could be very useful and after much research have not found on TH-cam. thank you
Love the videos. What/how would you fill screw holes that you don't have access to the back? I had to remove rod holders under the gunnel in a skiff. If I put anything in the hole it will just fall into the hull.
Glad you are enjoying the videos! The 3m high strength filler is very good. I also like a product called formula 27. I hope this helps and thanks for watching!
I have a bunch of holes in the gunnels of my center console from an old Bimini top would 50:10 be the correct way of going about filling them all in? Or would the putty be the better option ?
I'm in the process of converting a 1973 SeaCamper from I/O to outboard driven. I'd like to see how a pro would plug the large I/O hole in the 2" thick transom.
Nice work thank you for the lessons. I really look forward to watching your videos. I have a Old Town canoe with bottom scratches i would like to fill and re-gel the canoe. should I prime first ?
Thanks, glad to help! We usually prime when working with wood or new Coosa.I would imagine if your canoe is fiberglass, and it is clean and dry you should be able to start with your filler, or your gelcoat. I hope this helps and best of luck with your project!
Yes, I am a boatbuilder and Captain. My father was also a boatbuilder. He started the business in the 60s, so I literally grew up in a boat shop. The Grey 29 foot center console in the background of our videos is my most recent build, and I have over 20 videos documenting the build process if you are interested. Thanks for watching!
I've seen oriented stranded board (osb) used to build boats. What is your thoughts and recommendations for sealing off the osb to be absolutely water tight bond ? CSM size and woven size ?
I have never used osb on any boat work. I would have to do some research on that on. I don't think I would personally use it vs marine plywood. I wish I had more for you on that one. Thanks for watching
Can you color grade filler if not using a gelcoat? I have a camo Gheenoe Classic, the interior is a tan-brown that has some holes I would like to fill.
You should be able to add some pigment to most fillers. I don't know how close you will be able to get though.I would try to start with a filler that have a tone in the general ballpark if possible. I would do some test batches first to be sure you get proper cure. Hope this helps and thanks for Watching!
You’re videos have been incredibly informational, thank you for all you do! One question here - What resin would you recommend to waterproof plywood for floor decking that will have carpet on it? I initially planned on using polyester to ensure binders in the mat are being broken down, but if there’s no gel coat that’ll be over it, would epoxy be better for it’s water resistant qualities?
Glad you are enjoying the videos! Both resins can work, but there is a third option. Vinyl Ester resins block water like epoxy, but will work with csm. Hope this helps, and thanks for watching!
I have repaired the fiberglass on the bottom of my boat (6" W x 12" L) and feather-edged the gel coat around the repair. Can I use tinted epoxy and colloidal silica to rebuild the gel coat, and if so, will that seal the fiberglass sufficiently, or do I need to come back with a gel-coat finish over the epoxy? Thanks in advance.
Stupid question,let’s say I have trailer rash on my boat that looks like bullet holes thru gelcoat. If I fill in with a putty like you showed and sand flush,when I put a color matched gelcoat on top,I’ll have a raised surface? So after making repair,I need to sand down so gelcoat has a place to be. Then float over? Then sand and polish? Thanks for videos.
We have made Patreon ( www.patreon.com/FishBumpTv ) available for members who are interested in consultations on their projects. Thank you for your support!
This information is absolute gold. There are tons of boat repair videos on TH-cam but none presented so clearly and comprehensively. There will be people referencing these videos prior to attempting a repair for years.
Wow, thank you so much! We hope to do a lot more with the channel as it grows. Everyone's support and encouragement is much appreciated!
Hope you don’t mind I threw up a link to your channel on thehulltruth. I’m sure being in the boating industry you are familiar with the site!
Solid comment brother. Couldn't agree more. Such a down to earth no nonsense guy full of experience and knowledge. Can't buy this stuff. Very glad we've all found it. Amazing. So though and so much experience.
this channel is like South Main Auto for boat repair lol (if you don’t know who that is and are into car repair I highly recommend it)
@@Art-jw8ho Thanks! I will have to check them out.
Capt. Joe, don't worry about the videos being too long. This is a very useful video that can apply to every boat owner making minor repairs to his own boat if they need too. Even though I know most of what you showed here, I enjoyed watching this one as well. You content is very good and we're enjoying it very much!
Thanks so much, and I am glad you are enjoying the videos!
I hope you get this comment.. I have since the 1980s worked with all this and what you have showed and told was to me so amazing!... I want to say it is so good to hear someone that is Well spoken,Well capable of task at hand and willing to be patient
Don't you dare stop with the amazing videos. I wish we had teachers like you at school. Another excellent and very illustrative video session. THANK YOU! 👍
Wow, thank you! More videos coming soon.
Hello! Thanks for the shout-out 😀😀 And the info about filling the holes is, as you said, *exactly* what I need. You are most kind 👏👏
You are very welcome! Glad to help you out any way I can! We will be posting more vids related to the kind of work you are doing on Twiggy, so stay tuned.
You are finding your sweet spot on these videos.
Glad you like them! Thanks for watching
Yep, agree fully
I've watched every single glass ing video you've ever made , and followed along the way of the 2900 , your technique and explanations have improved my own skill tremendously, and has taught me to slow down and take my time and it really shows in the final product, love this channel!
That's awesome, thanks so much for watching! Glad the videos are helping you with your projects!
I know guys is generic, and you intend the phrase as “viewers”, but, it was nice to hear you mention the gals too. A thoughtful touch!👍🏻
Thanks! Glad you caught that! I hope everyone feels welcome to the channel.
I appreciate you taking the time to make the videos as they are thorough and well planned. Thanks for giving multiple options depending on the situation.
Glad you like them! Thanks for watching!
You are absolutely the best at what you do in the way you describe everything makes it easy for anyone with any common sense to get it done and save us a lot of money. Really appreciate you keep it going.
Wow, thanks so much! Glad you are enjoying the videos!
Really enjoy your channel. My father was a Naval Chief, his job was hull technician. At five years old he had me in a navy base wood shop he ran at night for the base. Today he would have been looked at as the ultimate maker. God rest his sole. I am about to make a 29.9 feet trawler to travel the loop or part of it. You should consider a new title. Professor! lol. Take care. He taught me all about wood and making with wood but left out the stuff about resin and sheet metal. Well, I learned sheet metal in the HVAC business for 20 years and later learned resin on my own. Thank you for the complete explanation format. I have an old picture of dad standing inside of a mold where he made PT 50 foot fiberglass hulls in Vietnam back in the 60's.
Wow, very interesting! Thanks so much for sharing! Sounds like a very interesting project you have planned. We see a lot of loopers come through the intra coastal waterway in our part of the Gulf coast. Looks like it would be a very enjoyable thing to do. Best of luck with your project, and thanks for watching!
The material of your board is called coreplast used for cheap outdoor signs
Joe, I can’t express to you how awesome your teaching and knowledge has been. I am thankful for you, as you are to us as watchers! However, I can speak for some of us and say, your safety and ppe is more important. If it means you take longer or voice over when editing in post, that is completely fine. Your experience, teaching and knowledge will continue to be a tremendous value to the community, so long as you’re with us! 👍🏼
Wow, thank you! I appreciate your thoughts!
Joe is making a library of boat repair videos, not just the fixes, but clear explanations of why.
I like the learning process on how to fix things the right way.
We are working on it! Glad you are enjoying the videos!
Thank so much for the “fluff free” discussion! After a weekend of you tube learning, I want to hear “just the facts.” Excellent delivery style, good camera work as well.
Glad you are enjoying the videos. Thanks
Another great video. You have a skill that needs to be shared and a hell of a teacher.keep them coming Capt.
Wow, thank you very much!
Love seeing what you suggest for below the waterline vs not!Great video Joe
Awesome, thanks for the feedback!
Capt Joe and fish bump family you make it look easy but when doing this material it really takes some where with all timing is everything and a BIG thumbs 👍 on more videos really appreciate your time !
Thanks 👍I appreciate you watching and commenting!
I'm going to be repairing cracks in my hull. I have watched a ton of videos. I have watched your videos and you are my choice of teacher's. I will be following your instructions for my repairs. Thank you so much for sharing your incredible knowledge and expertise. I hope I can do as well as you making it look great.
Thanks, and best of luck with your project!
Your content is GREAT and much appreciated! This stuff can be so confusing and your videos offer clarity. So thank you!
Thanks, glad you are enjoying the videos!
I'm back Joe!😂 I chose to use a product from FGCI to fill in the cracks after grinding them down and properly sanding and cleaning. I absolutely love this this product it's their Gelcoat paste and it's designed for above and below water line. I had some cracks that went into the fiberglass but not through it just surface cracks I was able to grind out with a dye grinder and conical bur 1/4" at the tip to 3/4" at the base. I called FGCI whose support is awesome and asked if I should bother doing glass work or could I just fill the whole patch with the paste. They said no need to glass the product was designed to repair this type of damage. It comes in base white and can be pigmented wich I suck at! Or neutral clear and you color it with the dye of your choice. I'm going to be painting over the top of the repairs using Total Boat white gelcoat paint unwaxed first to build up some depth then waxed final coat. I'll be rolling it out so there's going to be orange peel and tip marks. I'm not sure what grit sand paper I want to start out with and how long I should use each grit before changing to a lighter grit. Like what grit should I use to knock down any orange peel? I'm thinking like 800 grit but I'm always to cautious then I'm sanding more than I need to😂.
Thank for commenting! I just posted a 3 part gelcoat series that should answer some of your questions. I hope this helps and thanks for watching!
My favorite tools for filler work tools are a waxed melamine board for mixing, a 4" dry wall knife, a drywall cheese grater for removing "b staged" excess, and cake icing spatulas for fillet shaping. If you have deep pockets Freeman Supply makes amazing fillet shaping tools. Great info as always!
Yes, all good suggestions! I actually have some tools from freeman, and some others that are very good. Maybe I will make another vid on fairing and shaping fillers in the future and use some of those tools! Thanks for watching
Your videos are some of the best info out there on the subject. If you get some time could you do a video on applying, mixing, and repairing gel coat for spider cracks on the hull. Keep up the good work.
Thanks so much, that's a great suggestion. I will try to make that happen for you guys!
Great vid and info Cheers from a DIYer in the UK!
Fantastic! Thanks for watching all of the way from the UK 🇬🇧!!
Ty for the advice you gave me about my boat it’s all white and has a 6 inch blue ring around the top of it
You are welcome, glad to help!
Been sanding/grinding the gelcoat off my inside hull and WOW is that stuff tuff! Prep really is a huge portion of the work.
Yes! Gelcoat is pretty tough stuff! Thanks for watching
Ild like to see a bass boat transom redo. I know you specifically do sea/inlet boats but maybe an older 80’s-90’s.
Also long hull scratches or wider flatter spot like 4-6 inches or more in size.
Thanks for the suggestion. I have a 2 part gelcoat repair video series here on the channel. You will have to scroll back a good bit to find it, but they are 2 of our most popular videos. It shows gelcoat repair on scratches simular to what you are describing. Hope they help
Great job Captain Joe. Keep the videos coming , great info , technique and presentation. I honestly can't believe how fast the time flies by watching and learning. Reinforcing what I already know and filling in gaps in my knowledge or showing me new techniques and tips..Thank you!
Thanks 👍 glad you are enjoying the videos!
Awesome video!
I am going to making a custom fiberglass shower pan and cabinet in my camper and I feel confident after watching these videos!
Thank you, and best of luck with your project!
Great video ,tips,discussion. Valuable information. Thanks! I’m doing extensive scratch damage repair from hurricane Sally. As well as thru hull work. This is helpful.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks! I appreciate the information you’ve shared. I have a boat project that’s going on
Awesome, I appreciate the Super thanks!! Glad the content is helping you with your project boat!
Thank you for making an extra long video, I'm a new boat owner and everything is new to me. Subscribed
Welcome aboard! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Thank you for your great and detailed videos 👍
My pleasure! Glad you are enjoying the videos!
Another great video from Captain Joe. would love to see a video on how to fix spider cracking on gel coat. Thanks!
Great suggestion! Thanks for watching!
Everything you’re doing just keeping up man
Thanks so much!
I truly enjoy the videos and getting tons of value information!
Please keep it coming
Thanks, will do! I appreciate the comment
Absolutely love your videos Capt. Joe, I find them very useful and educational please keep em coming!!!
That's awesome! Glad the videos are helpful!
Another great video. Thanks.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Hi Joe , big subjects and one of my favorite issues as so much miss info on fillers and fairing compounds.
Despite the great job that West System has done showing how to make your own putties and filler using a ready made poly or epox product is usually way way better. If for no other reason than you get so much better consistency. The additives need time , up to 24 hrs to be fully wet out by the resin so mixing at the last minute just doesn’t give the best long term results. But as you know sometimes you just have to do what ever it takes.
Great video
Cheers Warren
Yes, all good points! Thanks for watching and commenting on the videos. I really appreciate it
Thank u so much for taking the time to explain all these things to us. Great content. And much love from Maryland❤❤❤. Im about to start my boat project once the weather breaks. I have to replace the flooring in my 1978 Wellcraft so your videos will def come in handy when i go to do so. I will keep u posted on that project considering i will be starting a youtube channel so we shall see lol. Just wanted to say thanks again
You are very welcome! Glad you are enjoying the videos. Wish you the best of luck with your Wellcraft!
I really appreciate your help, its a lot but we always have a video for reference later if we missed or forgot anything. Keep up the good work.
Thanks, glad to help!
Thanks for the video! I really appreciate the information and the care that you employ in explaining things very well, especially for the novice diy type. I just bought an old champion bass boat that needs some screw holes repaired so this video is timed perfectly for me. Thanks.
Glad to help, we just posted another video that you might find helpful. Thanks for watching!
Hats off to Logan for keeping up with you Captain! Great video as always. Please don't worry about the length. You have great content and a lot of information to get out there. Please keep up the good work. When are you going to get behind the camera and let Logan show us how he does it?
I appreciate that! I will tell him you said so, but I think he likes being behind the camera pretty good.
I started watching fiberglass and boat repair because my Sea Fox got a crack in the deck. I feel confident I would be able to do the repair but my wife is opting to hire a professional service. Thank you for your videos I found them to be very informative and interesting will be able to oversee and understand what gets done on our boat thank you
Glad the videos helped to understand the process of fiberglass and gelcoat repair. Nothing wrong with having the work done professionally. It it good to know when it is more than you may want take on. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Hi Joe did you use epoxy on your 29 or all polyester with gelcoat to cover
The 29 is all isophthalic polyester resin, 1708 and 1808 biaxial glass over gelcoat. Probably 95 percent or more of all fiberglass boats on the market are polyester. Epoxy is still a great material, and I plan on using it in some of our future projects. Thanks for watching!
great stuff thank you. Even though fiberglass is not used on as many things outside of boats it's extremely useful and strong (Not to mention the other fibers available). The way it can be molded is very cool.
Glad you are enjoying the videos and thanks for watching!
Great stuff, Joe!! Everything you put out is absolutely great info. You’re doing an awesome job of making it understandable and applicable. I appreciate that
Wow, thanks so much! Glad you are enjoying the videos!
Great video, thank you! Thank you so much for the side-by-side comparisons and highlighting pro/cons and compatibilities of materials. That's super helpful, and so many videos out there on the topic prescribe a specific product. Your test pieces are a great illustration tool, and I also appreciate your tips on cleanup and tool sourcing/maintenance.
I'm still working my way back through your channel, but I'd love to see any tips you have for diagnosing what materials an existing boat in need of repairs has used and what materials might be compatible for the fixes.
Thanks Joe great info
Glad to help, and thanks for watching!
Screw hole through the deck repair answered, thank you.
Glad you got it figured out! Thanks for watching!
Eben here from South Africa, I absolutely love your videos and am a new subscriber. Your videos are clear and concise and there is always a huge lot to learn. Thank you for putting this together. I have by accident ended up using a tomato sauce or mustard sauce squeeze bottle for my acetone, it has the little cap for the spout and seals good enough to not evaporate and they come in different sizes.
Wow, thank you and welcome to the channel! I think you might be the first comment we have gotten from South Africa, it is much appreciated!
Thank you for a good video on using fairing compounds. I am stumbling thru gelcoat repairs (mostly thremal and stress cracking) on my 22 year old Beneteau sailboat. Apparently thickened gelcoat is not the best way to go when you have "demeled" out the cracks and you are trying to fair them back to flush. I guess I messed that up. Good thing I am practicing on a small removeable hatch first. Not the whole boat. This work is very frustrating and a tougher learning curve than I thought. DIYers can do it but not without some trial and error. Don't expect perfect or professional results. I know I have been and will make lots of first timer mistakes. I am hoping to cut out a few of them and avoid making an unrecoverable mess by learing from professionals. I salute those who can do this well. It ain't easy.
Glad you are enjoying the videos! Yes, there is a learning curve for sure. It is always best to practice with some inexpensive or non essential parts first if possible. Remember perfect Is really difficult, sometimes good but done is better.
Great content videos of boat repairs
Thanks, glad you like the videos!
Excellent lesson for us to learn!!! Thanks for that video!!!
Thank you so much, I appreciate the comment!
Outstanding demonstration! Clear and concise.🙂👍👍
Thanks so much, glad it was helpful!
Thank you for providing these videos. Great service.
Glad you like them! Thank you for watching and commenting
Thank You for the awesome information !! this is going to save me a lot of time come Spring when things thaw out here in Northern Pa. !!
Glad it was helpful! I appreciate you watching
Great stuff. I just found your channel and I’m glad I did!
Awesome, thank you! Welcome to the channel
Ceramic tile or glass makes a great sturdy mixing surface, this is easy to clean.
Great tip! Thanks for watching!
Hello Capt. Joe, great videos! Can you provide some guidance on removing bottom paint and making repairs below waterline?
Yes, I will be helping my brother with his sailboat bottom paint soon. I will try to touch on the process you are looking for soon! Thanks for watching!
The content, tips and demonstrations are very confidence building. As a drywall mudder/taper/finisher and painter by trade, I appreciate the similar techniques but I am learning what actual materials to use for canoe & kayak repairs and restoration. I dream of shop like yours to get going on my own projects. Thank-you for your videos and expertise once again. EPO
Thank you very much for your comment! The skills you have from doing drywall and paint work should make you a natural at fiberglass and gelcoat! Glad you are finding the videos helpful, and best of luck with your projects!
New need this info great timing thank you
Glad to help!
Always super informative!! I've been to paid trade seminars and you're spoiling us with the ease of you tube -thank you- [A request ] could you do a strength and impact test on the different finishing materials over cured lay up... ie. putties ,smoothing coat of resin, gelcoat and whatever your method with a finished great looking exterior gelcoat or paint? My ultimate goal is to make a fiberglass body for a 72 Datsun 510 -in time after a lot of practicing on smaller projects, your teaching is great. thanks Bret
Thanks so much! I will try to get some more testing out for you guys. The Datsun project sounds like a cool one!
Hi , thanks for your videos , I really appreciate them and watch all.
I live in Australia and I am repairing my Yamaha jetski which has a nanoxcel SMC hull , which has cracked , I was going to use west system epoxy and G flex to repair , is that what you would recommend ?
Any advice would be appreciated.
Thank you for all your videos. I am learning a lot. Which filler is best to use on an aluminum stern drive?
Glad you are enjoying the videos! I would recommend epoxy for aluminum stern drive repair. Thanks for watching
Great information. I’m learning a lot!
Glad it was helpful!
Dang man that was a Mouth-full(Spanky)line from Little Rascals.
You are making me warm up to Poly.
How can folks afford $300 a gallon for filler.
I am like I said before, Not a beginner and Not a Pro.
But You can make 53 minutes pass quickly and easily.
Dont ever feel like you need to short cut these Videos, These are packed with well valued content.
You MAY have missed a calling in Teaching.
I have made or left several comments on other videos.
But I can't convey how refreshing it is to watch quality installs by a Pro.
Haha! I used to watch those guys when I was a kid, good stuff man! Thanks for watching and commenting!
found the 3m premium on amazon for $197.
I love your content. I appreciate the step by step approach. You’re talented. I live very close to gulf shores, right across the Florida State Line. I work in roofing… if you ever need some roof work on that shop just let me know 😊
Awesome! Thank you! Yep, the shop is going to need some pretty serious repairs at some point in the near future. I had to put things off while I was building the 29. Just trying to get all of my ducks in a row before I start anything. I appreciate you watching and commenting!
@ absolutely!
@ I wasn’t busting your chops btw 😆 I’ve seen others do that to you. I was being sincere.
NOTE: I have several osmotic blisters on my pwc that I’m going to dive into this winter. What’s the best process for a newbie to use to repair them?
@TruthAlledgedly24 I appreciate that! Usually with blisters, it's a matter of grinding them out down to solid material. A good solvent wipe, and some drying time, then either a vinyl ester or epoxy based repair and filler. I hope this helps and I appreciate you watching!
Do you have any videos About Deck screws coming loose and filling them. And replacing screws back in.
I don't have a video exactly on that topic, but I would imagine you could you some of the info in the filler selection video to help you. I will try to make a video on this topic soon for you guys. Thanks for Watching!
only My second or third vid I have seen of yours...excellently done sir.,,and exactly what I needed TY !!
Thanks for watching! Glad to help!
Hi captain. Thanks for helping me so much with diy on my boat. I have watched other Chanel’s and found them to technical which put me off trying.
So thanks again.
I do have a question for you I would like to bring my hull back to the original gel coat. But there is multi coats of anti foul. Do you have any tips as to removing the old anti foul.
I now thank god I have found your Chanel. Keep up the great work.
Wow, thanks for the kind words! Glad the channel has been helpful to you! I will try to touch on the bottom paint removal methods for you the next time I have an opportunity in a video. The basics though would be to carefully remove the old bottom paint with the correct paint remover or by carefully sanding it off with a vacuum assist sander or grinder. If the gelcoat underneath is in good condition, and is thick enough it can be wet sanded, buffed and polished back to a shine. If it is in poor condition, or to thin, you would have to add more coats of gelcoat, then wet sand, buff and polish it out. I hope this helps and I wish you the best with your future boat projects!
Good Info takes time to deliver so videos need to be sufficent length to impart this knowledge
Glad you think so! I appreciate the comment!
Thanks so much for making these videos, you do a great job with this channel!
Glad you are enjoying the videos, and I really appreciate your comment!
love the videos! Idea for the future would love to see some gel coat (white or black) with a glitter over not all glitter just a dusting and then I believe it is clear over that. Just a repair section how to would be cool to see.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Great info once again.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hi great video, what is the blue paste hardener and where can i get it thanks
I'm starting to rebuild a 1975 Reinell. I want to repair and "paint" the hull (exterior) a new color. It's obviously an old gel coat. Can I paint over gel coat? What prep work is required? What type of paint should I use. And, what are the pros and cons. Would love to hear you talk about this topic even if you don't make it a full video. Thanks. Mike.
Yes, you can paint over gelcoat. The surface would need to be thoroughly clean, then sand with 220 grit paper. I like a epoxy based primer like U.S paints Awlgrip 545. Awlgrip makes a very good marine paint system that we have used with good results. I will try to touch more on that subject for you guys soon. Hope this helps, and thanks for watching!
Thank you. I'll look for your additional comments on your video(s).
Great content again. Keep up the good work.
Thanks, will do!
I greatly appreciate all of this information. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!thanks for watching!
Speaking of sanding/grinding for fiberglass work prep. there is very very little info on TH-cam (that I'm aware of) about sanding/grinding a boat for fiberglass work. meaning the gelcoat, and preparing the fiberglass for a new layer of fiberglass. If you would ever consider such a video these are the questions I have: What is the best way to grind/sand through gelcoat? I have been using a grinder with a 40grit sanding disc and I discovered how important it is to keep the grinder as flat as possible to prevent nicks. What to then do about nicks? Also, there are many difficult to sand areas on a boat. Any tools or suggests for such areas? If you read this thank you very much, I have just heard that sanding and prep is most the work and I think a thorough video about that could be very useful and after much research have not found on TH-cam. thank you
Thanks for the video suggestion! I with try to do something on the topic of gelcoat sanding and grinding as well as general surface prep.
Perfect keep the videos coming. Good teacher. Thank you captain.
Thanks, will do!
Love the videos. What/how would you fill screw holes that you don't have access to the back? I had to remove rod holders under the gunnel in a skiff. If I put anything in the hole it will just fall into the hull.
Glad you are enjoying the videos! The 3m high strength filler is very good. I also like a product called formula 27. I hope this helps and thanks for watching!
I have a bunch of holes in the gunnels of my center console from an old Bimini top would 50:10 be the correct way of going about filling them all in? Or would the putty be the better option ?
Another awesome video, very much appreciated 👍🇦🇺
Glad you enjoyed it!Thanks for watching from Australia 🇦🇺!
Great info you can rely on. Hi from California
Thanks so much, we appreciate you watching from California!
I've used pro strand.. a good product
I agree, thanks for watching!
I'm in the process of converting a 1973 SeaCamper from I/O to outboard driven. I'd like to see how a pro would plug the large I/O hole in the 2" thick transom.
Thanks for the suggestion!
Nice work thank you for the lessons. I really look forward to watching your videos. I have a Old Town canoe with bottom scratches i would like to fill and re-gel the canoe. should I prime first ?
Thanks, glad to help! We usually prime when working with wood or new Coosa.I would imagine if your canoe is fiberglass, and it is clean and dry you should be able to start with your filler, or your gelcoat. I hope this helps and best of luck with your project!
Thanks for the tips. So you build your own boats?
Yes, I am a boatbuilder and Captain. My father was also a boatbuilder. He started the business in the 60s, so I literally grew up in a boat shop. The Grey 29 foot center console in the background of our videos is my most recent build, and I have over 20 videos documenting the build process if you are interested. Thanks for watching!
I've seen oriented stranded board (osb) used to build boats. What is your thoughts and recommendations for sealing off the osb to be absolutely water tight bond ? CSM size and woven size ?
I have never used osb on any boat work. I would have to do some research on that on. I don't think I would personally use it vs marine plywood. I wish I had more for you on that one. Thanks for watching
Can you color grade filler if not using a gelcoat? I have a camo Gheenoe Classic, the interior is a tan-brown that has some holes I would like to fill.
You should be able to add some pigment to most fillers. I don't know how close you will be able to get though.I would try to start with a filler that have a tone in the general ballpark if possible. I would do some test batches first to be sure you get proper cure. Hope this helps and thanks for Watching!
Another great video capt Joe. thanks.
Glad you enjoyed it!
A video on how to fix "spider web" looking cracks in the gelcoat would be great
Thanks for the suggestion!
Thanks learning a lot the long videos are great.
Glad you like them, and I appreciate you watching!
Thank you for this, this is so helpful.
Glad to help! Thanks for watching!
can you add pro strand to the WS epoxy resin for a decent peanut butter? (for use on running stringers)
No, pro strand is polyester resin based. Polyester resins and epoxy resins cannot be mixed. Hope this helps and thanks for watching!
You’re videos have been incredibly informational, thank you for all you do! One question here - What resin would you recommend to waterproof plywood for floor decking that will have carpet on it? I initially planned on using polyester to ensure binders in the mat are being broken down, but if there’s no gel coat that’ll be over it, would epoxy be better for it’s water resistant qualities?
Glad you are enjoying the videos! Both resins can work, but there is a third option. Vinyl Ester resins block water like epoxy, but will work with csm. Hope this helps, and thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing all this info. So much good stuff.
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watching and commenting!
I have repaired the fiberglass on the bottom of my boat (6" W x 12" L) and feather-edged the gel coat around the repair. Can I use tinted epoxy and colloidal silica to rebuild the gel coat, and if so, will that seal the fiberglass sufficiently, or do I need to come back with a gel-coat finish over the epoxy? Thanks in advance.
Stupid question,let’s say I have trailer rash on my boat that looks like bullet holes thru gelcoat. If I fill in with a putty like you showed and sand flush,when I put a color matched gelcoat on top,I’ll have a raised surface? So after making repair,I need to sand down so gelcoat has a place to be. Then float over? Then sand and polish? Thanks for videos.