Hello everyone -- very new to this subject, and I need specific advice.

I'm building an exhibition/static display model boat hull in the traditional way, with 1.5mm thick planks on frames. My problem is that the hull is to be painted (it's a modern yacht) and I'm afraid that at some point there may be shrinkage/movement of the planks which will show through the paint. For various reasons I cannot do the obvious & make it in fibreglass.

Coating with resin seems an ideal solution, but I need some advice:

1. Is it really not possible to spray the Coating Resin, because of its viscosity?
2. If not, how easy is it to get a very good brushed or rolled finish?
3. I know the resin is applied thinly, but is there a risk of sagging?
4. Can the cured epoxy be easily sanded? The structure will be delicate, and heavy sanding will not be possible.
5. Am I right in thinking that a resin coating will give considerable strength to a thin wooden substrate?
6. Is there any shrinkage during curing?

My aim is to get a finish as good as a perfect gelcoat.

Many thanks in advance!

GW

The resin is too thick to spray, however good results are possible with brush application.  It can then be sanded smooth if needs be no problem.

Thinly applied resin will have minimal shrinkage and minimal sagging. The resin coating will add strength.

If you are worried about the strength then we would recommend adding a layer of woven glass to stiffen it up before finishing with the resin. An ideal fibre would be our 100g 2/2 Twill Woven Glass.

Warren Penalver
Easy Composites / Carbon Mods - Technical Support Assistant

Many thanks. The woven glass is what I need, I think.
GW