how can I fix the scratches, dents and cracks on a 14' fibreglass hull?

Matching gel coat colours is notoriously difficult. There are many propriatary gel coat touch up kits available from chandlers but I have not found any to correctly match the colour. For white I use Plastic Padding and find it works fine on dinghies as they are not in the water all the time. You will find colour restorer for the topsides at any chandlers and advertised in magazines such as Yachts and Yachting (which is for dinghies). For reinforcing do this on the inside of the hull and I can only give a general idea. Go to a Fiberglass Moulder who will be able to sell you the Polyester Resin and specific matting you will need. Make sure the area you wish to reinforce is scruperlously clean so that you can get the bonding. Talk to the Fiberglasser, I have always found them very helpful and a font of knowledge. Above all take your time over the work it cannot be rushed. Another tip is always wear your bouancy aid when near the water. Larks can be very tippy and booms can seem to have a life of their own. I and many others have often had bruised heads.

Keith Barker
April 2006