Fiberglass Boat Repair

Overview

• Boat model: Whaler Outrage 18
• Boat type: Backwater boat suitable for 2 people
• Hull design: Deep V hull, good for ocean use

Summary

• The boat's hull design is respected for its safety and durability.
• The repair process involved addressing damage from running aground, which caused water absorption in the foam core.

Key Points

• The foam core was wet but not waterlogged.
• The repair required access to both inside and outside of the hull.
• Materials used included fiberglass mat and resin.

Repair Process

Problem

• Damage from normal use, specifically the deep V hull getting damaged from running aground.
• Water absorption in the foam core, making it difficult to dry out.

Solution

• Removed sections of the hull to access the inside and explore the extent of the damage.
• Used halogen lights to dry out the area.
• Applied fiberglass mat and resin for repair.
• Filled the inside with strand-filled bondo to ensure a solid repair.

Steps

1. **Initial Exploration** - Removed a section of the hull to check the inside. - Found the foam was wet but not heavy with water. 2. **Drying Process** - Used halogen lights to dry the area. - Removed additional sections of the cap insert to clear out more foam. 3. **Repair Application** - Applied fiberglass mat from Amazon (both weave and woven types). - Used a pint of fiberglass from Walmart. - Filled the middle inside with strand-filled bondo. 4. **Final Touches** - Applied one layer of mat on the outside with additional strips at heavy wear spots.

Notes

• Polyester resin has no shelf life, making it suitable for quality repairs.
• The goal was to plug the drain and make the area dry storage.
• Access to both inside and outside of the hull was crucial for the repair.