Fiberglass Boat Repair: 5 Most Common Issues & Their Solutions

Fiberglass is a popular boat material that offers durability, lightweight structure, and low maintenance requirements compared to other materials.

However, it is not immune to wear and tear. Specific problems can arise over time and usage. This blog highlights some of the most common issues associated with fiberglass boats and tips to resolve them. Whether you seek valuable information about fiberglass boat repairs or professional marine services in Vancouver Island, BC, this post has covered you.

5 Most Common Fiberglass Boat Issues & Their Solutions

1. Blisters

Horizontal, tiny cracks and bumps that emerge on the boat’s surface are known as blisters. It is a common problem on fiberglass vessels, especially those constantly in the water. When the water penetrates the gel coat, which is the outer layer of the fiberglass material, and reacts with the inside material, it forms small blisters. If not addressed sooner, these blisters can significantly damage the structure.

Solution: Remove the affected area using a sander or grinder. Once you expose the blisters, dry the area thoroughly. After the surface is moisture-free, apply an epoxy filler to fill the voids left by the blisters. Once the epoxy has cured, sand the area smooth and reapply the gel coat to restore the boat’s protective outer layer. You may require professional boat maintenance services to complete this process if the blistering is extensive and intricate.

2. Delamination

Sometimes, due to physical damage to the hull or water intrusion, the layers of fiberglass material begin to separate from one another. This issue, known as delamination, affects the integrity of the boat’s structure and may lead to more severe problems if not promptly addressed.

Solution: Remove the damaged section of fiberglass material to access the area between the layers. When you see the impacted area, clean it thoroughly and allow it to dry. Apply a marine-grade epoxy resin between the layers. Clamp the layers together to ensure a strong bond. After the epoxy has cured, reapply the fiberglass layers, sand the area smoothly, and finish with a gel coat to match the surrounding surface. For large or critical areas, take help from an experienced boat dealer with efficient staff to ensure the repair is done correctly.

3. Fatigue

Fiberglass fatigue gradually weakens the boat’s structure due to repetitive stress and flexing. The continuous impact of waves, vibrations from the engine, and other stress factors can cause micro-cracks and lead to more significant issues to the hull’s strength if left unchecked. It is a natural consequence of regular use, especially in rough waters. If your fiberglass vessel is frequently exposed to extreme conditions, it is more prone to fatigue-related issues.

Solution: Addressing fatigue in a fiberglass fishing boat near me involves inspecting the hull and other critical areas for signs of cracking or weakness. Small cracks can often be repaired using a repair kit, but more extensive damage may require professional assistance. To minimize the fatigue risk, ensure that your boat is not overloaded. Avoid pushing it beyond its designed limits, especially when you go offshore fishing in BC waters.

4. Stringer Damage

Stringers provide support to the boat hull’s framework. Damage to the stringers can severely compromise the vessel’s structural integrity of the boat, leading to issues such as flexing, water ingress, and, ultimately, failure of the hull. Stringer damage is often caused by water infiltration due to cracks in the fiberglass or poor sealing around the stringers. This moisture can lead to rot in wooden stringers or delamination in fiberglass material. Heavy impacts or collisions with other boats, rocks, or other objects can also damage the stringers.

Solution: The ideal solution for stringer damage repair is to replace the affected part. Preventing stringer damage involves regular inspections and maintenance, ensuring that any cracks or potential entry points for water are promptly sealed. It requires the expert supervision of professional marine technicians in BC.

5. Warping

When the fiberglass professional fishing boats for sale are exposed to the heat for longer, boat warping occurs. It causes the parts of the hull or deck to miss shape and become prone to lose formation when kept under extreme heat. This can lead to a compromised structure and a decrease in the boat’s overall performance and safety. Leaving your boat uncovered during hot summer months can result in severe damage due to the warping process.

Solution: Repairing warped sections of a fiberglass boat typically requires reliable marine mechanics. The affected area may need to be reshaped or, in some cases, replaced with new fiberglass material. To prevent warping, always use a trusted indoor boat storage service in British Columbia if you do not have proper space and shelter in your backyard while not in use.

Conclusion

Maintaining a fiberglass boat involves addressing common issues before they become significant damages. Taking prompt action against any unusual finding and connecting with a reliable boat service center can extend the life of your vessel and retain its value for years to come.

If you want to buy top-quality fiberglass boats like Sea Sport Fishing Boats or Osprey Pilothouse Boats for Sale or expert repairs and maintenance services, visit our boat dealership in Port Alberni, BC. Our professionals will assist you with everything from purchase to maintenance schedules and complex repairs for your next adventures on the Canadian waters.