How to Care for and Maintain Gelcoat Fibreglass Surfaces

 

 

The outermost surface layer of a fibreglass faced composite sandwich panel consists of a high-quality gelcoat. At Liner, we supply Elycold and Elyplan gelcoat fibreglass laminates produced by Brianza Plastica. These products are produced through modern fibreglass production processes integrated with premium raw materials. This premium gelcoat results in a surface that is shiny, easily cleanable and will not rust, rot, or corrode. 

Gelcoat surfaces offer extensive benefits in a multitude of applications as they resist colour drift under prolonged exposure to the sun and prevent fibreglass reinforcements sitting within the laminate to become openly exposed on the panels surface.

To ensure the longest possible lifespan and to help preserve the colour and gloss finish of the laminate, we have highlighted 4 care and maintenance recommendations:

1. Cleaning
2. Stubborn Stains
3. Waxing
4. Maintain Gloss, Shine and Colour

1. Cleaning 

Gelcoat surfaces are quite easy to clean and only require a mild liquid detergent. Avoid any products that are abrasive, caustic (high pH or alkaline) or contain ammonia. Caustic cleaners can cause discoloration and loss of gloss and repeated use can result in cracking and reduced UV resistance. Avoid dirty or gritty brushes. Remove bugs, sap, tar, and bird droppings as soon as possible to avoid staining. 

Always test a small inconspicuous area to ensure cleaning products are safe for use on composites. Opt for cleaners designed for use on fibreglass surfaces used in industries such as recreational vehicle, marine, and automotive. Be sure to follow the directions on the package. 

2. Stubborn Stains

If you have a stubborn mark or stain that will not come off with mild detergent and water, try using a small amount of mineral spirits on a clean rag. Be very careful with chemical cleaners of any kind and be sure to check their compatibility with the fibreglass in a small, inconspicuous area before using. Thoroughly rinse the fibreglass surface with clean water after using mineral spirits or any other chemical cleaner or the surface gloss will dull.  

3. Waxing

Waxing helps prolong the shine and durability of the gelcoat finish, similar to how it protects the finish on cars and boats. Use non-abrasive waxes specifically designed for fibreglass products on recreational vehicles, boats, trucks, or automobiles. Always take care when using polishers or rubbing compounds of any kind as many of these products can create light surface abrasions and abrasions of any kind are not good for a gelcoat finish.  

4. Maintain Gloss, Shine and Colour

Elycold and Elyplan are gelcoat laminates designed to perform better in long-term exposure to the sun than many fibreglass products available. However, any exterior product will eventually and gradually change colour after prolonged exposure to the sun and elements. 

Indoor storage or outdoor storage out of direct sunlight and away from tree and bird droppings is recommended to maintain the shine of the gelcoat. If using a cover, avoid those that trap moisture as extended exposure to trapped water causes blushing, especially in darker colours. Depending upon the frequency of exposure to the elements and the darkness of the colour, maintenance (wash and wax) should be completed every 6 months (3 months or less for darker colours). 

Should you ever need to repair your GRP surface, Elycold and Elyplan surfaces accept automotive paint. Please consult a repair or paint professional for the correct painting procedures.  

Maintenance Procedure 

1. Wash the fibreglass surface with a mild detergent and water. 
2. Dry the fibreglass surface with a clean, soft cloth. 
3. Apply oxidation remover if the surface is weathered badly and cleaning and waxing the surface doesn’t restore the finish satisfactorily. Apply per the manufacturer’s instructions. 
4. Wash the fibreglass surface with water and dry the surface with a clean, soft cloth. 
5. Apply wax per manufacturer’s instructions.

Brianza Plastica – The Experts in GRP Sheet

Outstanding quality, lightness, strength, aesthetic appeal, and a variety of finishes allow the Elycold and Elyplan fibreglass laminates by Brianza Plastica to be used widely for vehicle construction as well as for wall panels and interior coverings in the building and construction industry. The protective gelcoat protects against UV rays and yellowing, preserving quality and appearance over time. 

Brianza Plastica is one of the leading European manufacturers of fibreglass laminates for the composite industries. Brianza Plastica employs both discontinuous cold-lamination and continuous hot-lamination processes for maximum production flexibility so they can reliably meet the unique needs of manufacturers operating in a variety of industries.

We believe all information given is accurate, without guarantee. Since conditions of use are beyond our control, all risks are assumed by the user.