Compounding
Q: What is Compounding?
A: Compounding is the process of applying an abrasive paste to the hull of the boat. Compounding evens out gelcoat texture and removes any surface oxidation, small scratches, dirt, scum, and stains. For a high-quality job, Gem Polishing uses a marine-grade buffer to apply the compound, preparing the hull for polishing and waxing. Compounding is an important step in the rejuvenation and beautification of a boat's gelcoat.
Polishing
Q: What is Polishing and why's it important?
A: Polishing is similar to compounding in that polish is also abrasive. However, polish is less abrasive than compounds and thus is followed by compounding in order to obtain a glossy, attractive finish. The process is similar to sanding, where a coarse grit is followed by a finer grit paper in order to optimally even out surface texture.
Waxing
Q: Why do I need to wax my boat?
A: Waxing is essential to maintaining not only a beautiful finish, but also to protect your gelcoat, and therefore your fiberglass as well.
Gelcoat is quite porous and its resins need to be sealed well to protect its pores from expanding, which represents damage. Oxidation can then occur and a dull, chalky finish can develop on your boat's hull.
Q: Why is the type of wax used so important?
A: Gem Polishing uses the highest quality of marine waxes to ensure absolute effectiveness in the harshest of conditions. We use Brazilian Carnauba wax. This wax comes from the Brazilian Carnauba tree and as a natural product will not negatively interact with your gelcoat, and is also safe for the environment.
Q: Why is carnauba wax preferred?
A: In addition to being a natural product, carnauba becomes extremely hard after application and stands up longer to harmful UV rays from the sun, contaminated water, salt, acid rain, and harsh weather.
Teak
Q: Is it important to have my teak maintained somehow?
A: Teak can fade with time, and more importantly it can absorb pollutants, causing an unatractive and uneven appearance. The longer teak is neglected, the more work will be required for rejuvenation. Thus, periodic maintenance is a must!
Q: What processes are involved in teak maintenance?
A: There are three main methods/product types that one usually considers:
1. Teak Oil - Depending on climate conditions, teak oil must be applied every 1-4 months. Oil helps to keep water out of the wood and is often the choice for a quick teak job, as minimal or no prep sanding is needed.
2. Teak Sealer - Using a sealer requires sanding before application but will last longer than oil and works better to keep water out of the wood. A quality job with teak sealer should last about a year before maintenance is required again.
3. Teak Varnish - Varnish is by far the most effective solution to protecting teak. Varnish does not allow moisture absorbtion and rotting to occur, and absolutely sheds pollution and will not be stained. It's highly recommended that varnishing be done by professionals due to the time required for high-quality preparation and application. Up to ten coats can be required to achieve desired results.
