Can you use Acetone to clean gelcoat prior to applying VS721?

Skipper January 29, 2018 Ask The Skipper

Jim Johnson asked:

Can you use Acetone to clean the boat first and then apply the VS721 product or is there some other reason to use the products you recommend. Also, I think when I clicked on the specs it said the VS721 now had UV protection. Does that mean you can now use it on the sides of your boat around the waterline?

Answer:

For your convenience, I’ve highlighted the hyperlinks. Click on the hyperlink to get more information about the selected product.

Yes, you can use acetone to clean the gelcoat prior to application of VS721, however there are numerous reasons to use Boat Scrub instead. Acetone is intended for use during repair or construction of the fiberglass, not for general maintenance. It’s not environment friendly, is more difficult to work with, can be harmful to humans, the fumes are unpleasant and can be harmful and unless great care is taken, the results can be less than satisfactory.
Regular use can also be damaging to the gelcoat.

Acetone is an aggressive, highly volatile solvent. It’s effective at removing old wax and other pollutants, but because it’s a solvent it tends to lift and smear, so it’s important to work quickly, in small areas, turning and changing cloths often and repeat several times to insure that all the residue is removed.

Boat Scrub is effective at removing old wax and pollutants etc., plus it contains Hypexine to deep clean bacteria from the pores and it will also remove scuff marks and stains and will remove oxidized gelcoat and polish it to a higher shine. Boat Scrub does all this in one application and holds the pollutants and grime in suspension so that they can easily be wiped away.

You will get better results with Boat Scrub, it will be easier and safer to work with and the results are guaranteed.

Yes you can use VS721 on the hull above the waterline. A lot of boat owners do because it’s more durable and the low surface energy coating makes the hull much easier to keep clean. In salt water, salt does not stick and the hull can be rinsed clean with a garden hose, instead of washing with a salt removing chemical, which can be awkward when the boat is in the water. It’s also popular for use along the waterline on anti-fouled boats. It reduces the attachment of algae and waterline stain and seals the gelcoat to prevent boat pox.

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar