QUESTIONS about Gelcoat                           

• Is the neutral RAYPLEX Gelcoat clear in color?
• Can I use RAYPLEX pigments to color RAYPLEX Gelcoat?
• How do I apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat using a brush/roller?
• What is the shelf life for RAYPLEX Gelcoat and polyester resin products?
• Can I apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat to concrete?
• Applying  RAYPLEX Gelcoat over cured epoxy?
• What chemical to thin RAYPLEX Gelcoat?
• Application Guidelines  RAYPLEX Gelcoat with Wax or without Wax?
• What is the overcoat time when applying RAYPLEX Gelcoat without wax?
• Why is the finish dull and not glossy when RAYPLEX Gelcoat cures? 
• How long do I need to wait for gelcoat to cure before I can sand it?
• How soon should I remove PVA from gelcoat after the gelcoat has cured?
• How much MEKP is needed to catalyze RAYPLEX Polyester Laminating Resin?
• Is Rayplex Gelcoat UV stable?
• Can I apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat to a fiberglass swimming pool?
• Does RAYPLEX Gelcoat require thinning?
• Gelcoat has Wrinkles
• Gelcoat takes long time to cure.
• Sagging Gelcoat
• Gelcoat Sticking to part
• What are the benefits of High Gloss Additive? 

ANSWERS  about Gelcoat

• Is the neutral RAYPLEX Gelcoat clear in color?
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• The neutral RAYPLEX Gelcoatis is not clear, but translucent beige. It's designed to be tinted with Rayplex Pigments in order to create a custom color. Neutral gelcoat is used to create primary colors  such as greens, yellows, reds, blues, and black.

• Can I use RAYPLEX pigments to color RAYPLEX Gelcoat Or Resin?
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• Do not use the RAYPLEX POigments to add color to RAYPLEX RESIN or any other polyester resin products, such as RAYPLEX Polyester  Resin , because the results do not look very good and the material may not  cure properly. A more effective way to tint gelcoat and ensure a proper cure is to use RAYPLEX Pigments, available in 16 popular colors.

• How do I apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat using a brush/roller?
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To apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat by brushing, use a Rayplex Bristle Brush, with tapered bristles, that's not too stiff. When rolling, we recommend  Rayplex Rollers gelcoat and resin safe rollers that won't shed hairs or lint.

If you're using RAYPLEX Gelcoat without wax, add 5%  Wax Solution or Air-dry Additive in the last coat. For best results, Rayplex recomends using 1.5 to 2% Catalyst. use only the amount of MEKP catalyst needed for the amount of gelcoat you're using and the temperature conditions.

Thinning should not be required for most brushing/rolling applications, but if needed, thin with styrene - don't add more than 10% to avoid future  yellowing.

Always apply gelcoat in proper conditions - 50-95°F (70-80°F is ideal), with 0-90% relative humidity (. So the coating flows properly and self levels, do not apply gelcoat in direct sunlight.

See our Video on the 4 types and methods of application.

• What is the shelf life for RAYPLEX Gelcoat and polyester resin products?
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• Over time the chemicals or  promoters tend to loose there strength.  So the resin or gelcoat will take longer to cure.
• RAYPLEX Gelcoat and RAYPLEX polyester resin products will eventually harden in their containers - even without mixing in MEKP catalyst. The length of their limited shelf life depends on each product's formulation and the conditions in which they're stored.  For maximum shelf life Rayplex recommends storing resins and gelcoat out side in the garage.  The materials are oil based and the cold temperatures does not effect the length of storage or harm the product.
• Typically, the shelf life for uncatalyzed polyester resins is about 6 months, if stored in cool, dry conditions, in temperatures below 70°F. If stored properly, the shelf life may exceed 6 months, but always check to see if the material has thickened or polymerized before using.

• Can I apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat to concrete?

       No. The RAYPLEX Gelcoat products will not  bond to concrete which is very acidic, so not apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat         to concrete.

• Can I apply RAYPLEX Gelcoat over cured epoxy?

• Rayplex Gelcoat is a Iso Based polyester resin, and as such, is not compatible over epoxy.

  Small gelcoat repairs, epoxy can be used, then finished with gelcoat.  Make sure the epoxy surface is well sanded and solvent wiped with Rayplex Actone after being sanded to a dull finish.  Rayplex suggests doing a test first to make sure that the gelcoat will stick.  

• Can I thin Rayplex Gelcoat?

• Rayplex offers 3 main types of gelcoat, Brushing, Spraying  and Spray and Buff.
•   To thin gelcoat use Rayplex Stryene.  We recomend not adding more then 10% by volume.  Do not use actone as it casues the gelcoat to go rubbery and not cure properly.
• Spraying and Spray and Buff Gelcoats are designed for spraying  and can be thinned with Rayplex Stryene if required.  Rayplex suggest mechanical mixing the gelcoat first as crosslinking over time tends to thicken the gelcoat. So by mixing your breaking down the crosslinking that has occured which makes the gelcoat thinner.

      When deciding whether to use gelcoat with wax or without wax, there are           a  few factors to consider:

1. Surface Finish: Gelcoat with wax is typically used as a final coat to create a smooth, dull surface finish. The wax acts as a surfacing agent, rising to the surface of the gelcoat as it cures to create a barrier that helps to seal the surface and provide a glossy finish. Gelcoat without wax is often used for initial coats or repairs, as it allows subsequent layers to adhere properly without interference from the wax.
2. Application Process: Gelcoat with wax is easier to apply for final coats since it creates a self-leveling surface that requires sanding and polishing after curing. Gelcoat without wax may require more sanding as the surface will be tacky.
3. Compatibility with Additional Layers: If you plan to apply additional layers of fiberglass or gelcoat, using gelcoat without wax for the initial coats can ensure better adhesion between layers. Gelcoat with wax may hinder adhesion, requiring additional preparation such as sanding or the use of special primers.

In summary, if you're applying a final coat and prioritize ease of application and a glossy finish, gelcoat with wax is a suitable choice. However, if you require better adhesion between layers or if you're applying additional coats, using gelcoat without wax may be more appropriate.

What is the overcoat time when applying RAYPLEX Gelcoat without wax?

The overcoat time, also known as the "gel window" or "recoat window," refers to the period during which a subsequent layer of gelcoat can be applied over the previous layer without the need for sanding or additional surface preparation. This time frame is crucial for ensuring proper adhesion between layers and achieving a smooth, seamless finish.

The overcoat time for RAYPLEX Gelcoat without wax may vary depending on factors such as temperature, humidity, and the specific formulation of the gelcoat.  Most important the amount of catalyst added to the gelcoat.

Generally speaking 2 to 4 hours is usual. If there are wet spots this my be a sign of improper mixing or low catalyst levels.  Wait till these areas dry up.   A simple test is using your finger nail to see if you can slice the cured gelcoat with your nail.  If you can wait. 

In our fabrication days we always applied gelcoat coat in the afternoon and let it dry overnight.  We found rushing always lead to repair work later.

Rayplex Gelcoat cures to a dull finish rather than a glossy one for a few reasons:

1. Surface Texture: The application technique and conditions can affect the surface texture of the gelcoat. If the gelcoat is not applied smoothly or if it is brushed or rolled on, it can create a textured surface that appears dull rather than glossy.

2. Curing Conditions: The curing conditions, such as temperature and humidity, can influence the final finish of the gelcoat. If the gelcoat cures under less-than-ideal conditions, it may not fully cure to a glossy finish.

3. Additives and Pigments: Some gelcoats contain additives or pigments that can affect the final appearance. Certain additives may dull the finish or cause it to appear less glossy once cured.

4. Post-Curing Techniques: Gelcoat my need more time to cure before further buffing or sanding.  Undercured gelcoat is sometimes soft and will not polish to a shine.Sometimes, post-curing techniques such as If these techniques are not applied or are done incorrectly, the gelcoat may remain dull.

5. Sanding a Buffing   Sanding or buffing and polishing are necessary to achieve a glossy finish. Rayyplex has two compounds that offer a low cost and buff to a brilliant shine.  RayBuff 100 and RayBuff 200 

To achieve a glossy finish with Rayplex Gelcoat, it's important to ensure proper surface preparation, application technique, curing conditions, and potentially consider post-curing techniques if necessary.

How long do I need to wait for gelcoat to cure before I can sand it?