How can you fix a large gouge in a fiberglass vessel?

How can you fix gelcoat gouges?

Start by sanding the area and scratch with 320-grit papers. Be careful not to remove too many materials. After sanding, you can use a Dremel to remove the gouge slightly. Next, feather the edges with 180-grit. This will help the gelcoat blend in, and hide the edges of filled scratch.

You may also be wondering how to fix large damage to gelcoats. Use 320-grit dry/wet paper to sand the gelcoat. Keep your focus on the repair immediate area and continue wet-sanding using 600-grit paper to bring it nearly in line with the surrounding gelcoat. Finish the wet-sanding process with 1,000-grit papers. Finally, apply wax to the area.

It is also asked how to repair deep scratches in fiberglass.

Begin by cleaning the area with acetone. Use 1000 grit dry/wet sandpaper to sand the area. Use a cup of water to gently rub the area using wet sandpaper. To remove gel-coat dust (paste), re-wet your paper often.

Can I paint over gelcoat?

Yes.. it's not necessary to "remove" gelcoat, but it should be thoroughly cleaned and dewaxed. A scuff sanding is enough to remove it but not enough to grind it off. Repainting old paint is a terrible job, especially if it was not the original one.