Do you like performing handiwork and repairs on your boat? While hobbyists and tinkerers can perform their own minor fixes, it’s important to learn about the types of resins available for larger, more complex tasks. Marine supply shops carry three main types of resin, two of which are very similar. Which resin is right for your job? Let’s take a closer look.
Polyester and Vinylester Resins
Both polyester and vinylester resins are very strong, have good adhesive qualities and are affordable. They are a good choice for many DIY fiberglass repairs, such as reinforcing areas with woven fiberglass or laminating fiberglass cloth into cracks or holes.
There are a few differences between the two. Thickened polyester resin is the best choice for cosmetic, non-structural repairs, such as screw holes and scratches. Vinylester resin is more resistant to water absorption, making it the best choice for hull repairs.
Epoxy Resins
The shining quality of epoxy resin is the ability to use hardeners of different “speeds” to make it cure more slowly or more quickly. This is especially helpful during extreme heat when you need more time to work on a project, or during extreme cold when you want it to cure as fast as possible.
Epoxy resin has great adhesive qualities and sticks well to boats made of polyester or vinylester; however, polyester and vinylester resins do not stick well to epoxy resin, which is a consideration if you wish to apply a gelcoat (made of polyester resin) to your boat.
For more information on marine-grade resins, visit your local marine supply store.
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