Quick fiberglass question

[shiner1836]

I'm going to fiberglassing my deck tonight (a little flatdeck project) I'm brand new to this so I want to make sure I'm doing it right. My question is, do I need to prep the hull/deck with any type of cleaner before I apply the resin and glass? also, apply a 2nd and 3rd layer immidiately after I put the first layer on or what? I assume one the 1st layer is on and wet I can apply the 2nd then follow with the 3rd in the same manner since im limited due to resin hardening time....all help is appreciated! thanks!

 

[stanton]

i usually clean with acetone or brake cleaner and let it sit out in the sun a bit to ensure its all evaporated. acetone wont let the resin fully cure.
yes you want to put all the glass down in one cure. better strength, less sanding.
have fun!

 

[shawn_NJ]

Abrade the any existing fiberglass surface well with some course sandpaper in many directions. Need to give the resin something to bite down on. Then clean/prep with mineral spirits or MEK solvent (not MEKP). Make sure the cleaning solvents are fully evaporated prior to laying any glass.

Also work in small batches to maximize work/gel time, laying all your layers wet on wet. If your epoxy hardener doesnt give you enough work time, get a slower hardener.

 

[shiner1836]

thanks for the advice guys. does home depot/lowes sell mineral spirits or MEK?

 

[shiner1836]

scratch that, found it! thanks again!

 

[cleetus]

lots of gloves/mixing sticks/measuring cups, rags and stuff like that. I also use a few throw away brushes and squeeges. Keep your coats thin, just enough to wet the cloth...