At this point it is worth while pointing out the essential differences between a cutting or compounding solution and a polishing solution. Bear in mind over the passing of time there have been all manner of descriptions applied to add to the confusion surrounding these solutions. Fast Cut, Single Cut, One Step, Finishing Glaze or Extreme Cut, which one do you use and what do they all mean?
Cutting Solutions:
Cutting solutions are design to take out small imperfections in your gelcoat that have been left after the sanding process. As a general rule these cutting solutions from each manufacturer will range from a fairly course grit (often you can feel the “grit” between your fingers) down to a much smoother formula (more aligned to tooth paste). Taking the ROAR Products as an example you would be looking to find a range that covers the following.
ROAR 900 Extreme Cut Compound:
Designed to remove P800 (800 grit) Scatches on the surface of the gelcoat. This would be a very course solution with larger particles design to be fairly aggressive on the surface of the gelcoat. It would easily remove the dull matt finish left at the end of your sanding process.
ROAR 910 Extreme Single Step Compound:
Designed to remove P1000 (1000 grit) Scratches on the surface of the gelcoat. This would be less course than a very aggressive solution and used where your last sanding grit strength was P1000 (1000 grit). Again it would remove the matt finish left by a slightly finer sanded finish and will leave a slight gloss finish.
ROAR 920 Extreme Multi Use Compound:
Designed to remove much finer P1500 (1500 grit) scratches on the surface of the gelcoat. This solution moves towards a polishing solution and lies in the middle of cutting and polishing. If you have a much finer sanded finish of P1500 then this solution will remove the matt finish left by the sanding process and return your gelcoat to a gloss finish in a single step. This provides good middle ground if the hull of your boat has some UV Damage and needs to be brought back to its orginal gloss finish and has no deep scratches which need to be removed.
Polishing Solutions:
ROAR 950 Extreme Finishing Glaze
As the name suggest this Polishing Compound is designed to deliver a High Gloss Finish and perfect to use after the more aggressive ROAR 900 and ROAR 910 Compounding solutions. The two step process combining a cutting and polishing solution will deliver an exceptional finish to your substrate.
ROAR 980 Extreme UV Wax:
The suns UV Rays will work into the shine and lustre of any Gelcoat, especially when magnified by the reflective surface of water. A UV Wax is designed to protect against the damaging UV rays and returns the boat hull to near showroom shine! Used frequently throughout a summer UV Wax will protect and extend the gloss look to the gelcoat of a hull and often save the need for an aggressive initial cut at the start of the following season.
All manufacturers products will be a variation on the theme above. Each product will tell you what the cutting grade is of each formula so you can make the right choice. If in any doubt call your supplier who will be able to give advice on what you need.
Materials and Tools:
Compounding (Cutting) Solution:
Inspect your Hull and make sure to choose a product suitable for the condition of your boat's gelcoat. Read the descriptions above whi will help you choose the correct compound that will allign with your project.
Buffer or Rotary Polisher:
A machine buffer or polisher is highly recommended for the best results. It will make the process faster and more effective. If you don't have one, you can try hand compounding, but it will be more labor-intensive.
Buffing pads:
You'll need appropriate buffing pads for your polisher. Wool pads are commonly used for the initial compounding stage, followed by finer foam pads for polishing.
Microfiber towels or clean, soft cloths:
These are used to wipe off the residue and polish the gelcoat.
PPE:
Wear safety glasses, gloves, and protective clothing to shield yourself from splashes and chemicals.
Compounding:
Prepare the Surface: Ensure your surface is clean and free of loose dirt or debris. If you are working on the hull of your boat, wash the hull thoroughly with a boat-specific cleaner and water, and then let it dry. Inspect the Gelcoat: Look for areas with oxidation, staining, or surface imperfections. Mark these areas for focused attention during the compounding process. Protect Surrounding Areas: Use masking tape to protect adjacent surfaces that you don't want the compounding solution to come into contact with, like non-gelcoat areas, decals, and trim.
Apply the Compounding Solution: Apply the compounding solution to a small section of the hull. Start with a small amount and spread it evenly over the area to be compounded.
Machine Buffing (or Hand Compounding):
If you have a buffer or polisher, use the machine to work the compound into the gelcoat. Use a coarse foam or wool pad for the initial compounding stage. Apply moderate pressure and work in overlapping circular or linear motions. The machine should be set to a medium to slow speed and you should not push with excessive force. Care should be taken at this stage to make sure you do not heat the gelcoat up and burn the surface. Keeping the surface wet using a spray will often help the performance of the compounding solution and reduce heat transfer.
If you're hand compounding, use a clean, soft cloth to rub the compound into the gelcoat in the same circular or linear motions. This will require more effort and time compared to using a machine.
Check Progress: Periodically stop and wipe off a small area with a microfiber towel to check your progress. You'll see the oxidation and imperfections disappear as you work. You can Repeat the process as Needed. If the oxidation or imperfections are still visible after the first pass, you may need to repeat the compounding process.
Polishing
Polishing: After compounding, switch to a finer foam pad on your buffer and apply a marine-specific polishing compound to further enhance the shine and remove any fine scratches left by the coarse compound. Buff the hull again using the same techniques as above. Once you're satisfied with the results, thoroughly clean the hull to remove any residue from the compounding and polishing process. Apply a quality UV Wax to protect the gelcoat and maintain its shine.
Regular Maintenance.
To keep your boat's gelcoat in good condition, regularly wash and wax it, and store the boat out of direct sunlight when not in use. Using a compounding solution on a gelcoat hull can significantly improve the appearance of your boat, but it requires patience and care. If you're unsure or uncomfortable with the process, please give us a call so that we can provide the correct advice for you.