Frank Langer
1984 Ericson 30+, Nanaimo, BC
Is annual "cut and polish" a good idea to maintain the gelcoat on Ericsons, or is there a risk that one might "cut" through the gelcoat over a few years? How thick is the gelcoat on 1980s boats? Is there a better alternative to maintain the gelcoat, as I don't want to have to paint the boat in a few years if possible.
My understanding is that polish does have some abrasive material in it to remove chalking, whereas wax does not. Is it good enough to rinse and then wax, perhaps twice a year in northern climates, or is the "cut and polish" required?
Also, the gelcoat on the transom on my boat is a bit pitted all over it (no previous history/cause available). It doesn't look great, and it makes it harder to clean off exhaust stains. I'm thinking to sand it down so it's smooth again, and then paint just the transom with a single part polyurethane paint like Interlux Brightsides. Does that sound reasonable, or does someone have a better idea.
Thanks.
Frank.
My understanding is that polish does have some abrasive material in it to remove chalking, whereas wax does not. Is it good enough to rinse and then wax, perhaps twice a year in northern climates, or is the "cut and polish" required?
Also, the gelcoat on the transom on my boat is a bit pitted all over it (no previous history/cause available). It doesn't look great, and it makes it harder to clean off exhaust stains. I'm thinking to sand it down so it's smooth again, and then paint just the transom with a single part polyurethane paint like Interlux Brightsides. Does that sound reasonable, or does someone have a better idea.
Thanks.
Frank.