How to Refinish Fiberglass Canoes

Over time the finish, either paint or gel coat, on a fiberglass canoe wears off. This exposes the fiberglass to UV rays, which breaks down the resin and fabric composite and weakens the canoe. Not only does a worn down finish weaken the canoe, but it looks bad; on painted or colored gel coat finishes, the scratches turn completely white. When a canoe's finish starts looking bad, it's time to refinish the surface.

Things You'll Need

  • Random orbital sander
  • 80-grit sandpaper
  • 120-grit sandpaper
  • Rag
  • Acetone
  • Epoxy
  • Mixing cup
  • Mixing stick
  • Foam roller
  • Paint or varnish
  • Paintbrush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sand off the existing gel coat or paint finish with 80-grit sandpaper until the fiberglass becomes exposed.

    • 2

      Continue sanding with 120-grit sandpaper until the surface feels smooth.

    • 3

      Wipe down the canoe with a rag and acetone to completely remove any dust from its surface. Let it dry.

    • 4

      Mix up 2 cups of epoxy according to the manufacturer's directions. Epoxy consists of two parts: the resin and the hardener. Once mixed, the liquid begins to harden, so work quickly.

    • 5

      Pour the epoxy over a section of the canoe and roll it out using a foam roller. Roll an even coat. Pour more epoxy onto the canoe as needed. Let the epoxy cure for two weeks before painting or varnishing.

    • 6

      Paint or varnish as desired.