Fiberglass yachts may encounter various issues, including cracks at structural joints, leaks at openings, bubble formation or black spots on the deck surface, blistering of non-slip areas, bottom leaks, scratches, and color changes on the surface gelcoat. These problems may arise from manufacturing oversights or improper use, leading to abnormal conditions in the fiberglass.
Common Issues and Solutions
- Color Change, Bubbles, and Black Spots on Surface Gelcoat:
- Causes: Variability in curing agent ratios during repairs or color differences in batches can lead to discoloration. Trapped microbubbles and dust during layering may cause surface bubbling or black spots.
- Solutions:
- For color differences, sand off the gelcoat layer and reapply a matching gelcoat, then wet sand to #1000 and polish.
- For bubbles/black spots, gouge out affected areas, reapply matching gelcoat, and finish with sanding and polishing.
- For deeper bubbles, excavate the area, fill with chopped mat and resin, cure, then reapply gelcoat and polish.
- Cracks at the Hull and Deck Joint:
- Causes: Impact collisions typically cause cracks at the gunnel joint.
- Solutions:
- For minor impacts, remove the rail and repair the fiberglass with structural adhesive and bolts, then reinforce.
- For larger impacts, consult a dealer for professional repair.
- Cracks at Gelcoat Between Fiberglass Parts:
- Causes: Cracking often occurs where fiberglass components meet the deck due to wear over time.
- Solutions: Remove excessive gelcoat and reinforce with mat and resin, then reapply matching gelcoat and polish.
- Water Accumulation on the Deck Surface:
- Causes: Poor drainage from non-slip or teak decks can lead to localized water pooling.
- Solutions:
- For localized pooling, add drainage outlets.
- For larger areas, regrade the surface for better drainage.
- Bubbling of Non-Slip Boards and Cracking at the Wall Joint:
- Causes: Bubbling occurs from prolonged use; cracking often results from poor installation.
- Solutions:
- Remove and replace the bubbled non-slip boards while ensuring the pattern continuity matches.
- For cracked joints, gouge out the area and repair accordingly.
- Leaks at Large Window Openings:
- Causes: Deformation from impacts or poor installation leads to leaks.
- Solutions:
- Replace deformed windows with new matching units.
- For general leaks, remove any wooden trim, reseal, and reinstall.
- Leaks at Porthole Openings:
- Causes: Often due to poor installation.
- Solutions: Remove the wooden trim, reseal, and reinstall.
- Leaks at Equipment Installation Openings:
- Causes: Leaks often arise at openings for various installations, such as engines or plumbing systems.
- Solutions: These jobs require professional expertise; consult dealers for proper repairs.
- Leaks at Anchor Equipment Openings:
- Causes: Poor installation can cause major leaks affecting the anchor machinery.
- Solutions:
- Reinstall the anchor equipment with proper seals.
- Check drainage systems to ensure proper slope.
- Minor Leaks on the Hull Surface:
- Causes: Poor construction at the hull bottom may lead to leaks over time, resulting in increased boat weight and reduced speed.
- Solutions: Lift the yacht for thorough inspection below the waterline.
- Leaks at the Hull Openings:
- Causes: Multiple inlets and outlets below the waterline risk leaks due to poor installation.
- Solutions: Conduct a thorough inspection of the hull below the waterline.
- Scratches and Cracks from Accidental Collisions:
- Solutions:
- For minor scratches, remove the surface gelcoat, fill with repair putty, reapply gelcoat, and polish.
- For scratches affecting the fiberglass, remove the gelcoat, use chopped mat and resin to fill depressions, cure, and finish with gelcoat and polishing.
- For significant cracks due to collisions, consult professionals as safety may be compromised.