How long before applying 2nd coat of Sure Step

Skipper April 19, 2011 Ask The Skipper

Ernie Bivona asked:

Can a second coat of Sure Step be applied multiple days after the first coat or does it have to be applied within 24 hours?

Answer:

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Yes, the second coat can be applied more than 24 hours after the first but not before. The reason is that you need a minimum of 24 hours for the first coat to cure so that the second coat will layer on top for added protection instead of simply removing the first coat and replacing it with the second. The danger of leaving it too long between coats is that it may get dirty and require re-cleaning before applying the second coat. Be sure to clean and prep the surface with Boat Clean Plus and Boat Scrub before applying Sure Step. This is important because these two cleaners will deep clean the pores in the gelcoat, removing dirt, grime, bacteria, suntan oil etc., and the second cleaner will remove any traces of oxidized gelcoat, scuff marks and stains. Remember that Sure Step will seal the gelcoat so if you don’t get it pristine, you will seal the dirt, grime and stains, etc., into the finish.

Thanks for your question,

Captain Aurora
Richard Kittar