Mechanical gelcoat peeling and osmosis treatment safeguard your vessel against the damp, changeable conditions of Cumbria’s waterways. From Windermere to the Solway Firth, boats face constant moisture, rainfall and UV exposure. Addressing peeling gelcoat and latent osmosis early prevents structural damage, reduces fuel consumption and keeps your hull looking showroom-fresh.

Mechanical peeling removes failing or degraded gelcoat down to a sound substrate, ensuring new coatings bond perfectly. In Cumbria’s high-humidity environment, compromised gelcoat allows moisture to enter the laminate, accelerating blister formation. Our controlled abrasive blasting or precision sanding:

• Strips old, chalked or crazed layers
• Exposes hairline cracks and pinholes
• Prepares a uniform surface for repairs

By mechanically peeling rather than relying on chemical strippers, we guarantee an even profile and eliminate environmental runoff concerns on Cumbria’s protected waterways.

Osmosis arises when water penetrates microscopic pores in the laminate, reacting with uncured resin and creating acidic by-products. These collect under the gelcoat, forming blisters that:

• Weaken the hull’s structural integrity
• Increase hull weight and fuel usage
• Spread laterally if not treated

Cumbria’s colder waters and frequent temperature swings can aggravate blister growth. Early detection combined with professional osmosis treatment halts damage and restores strength.

1. Comprehensive Hull Survey
   
   • Moisture mapping with calibrated meters
   • Blister identification and mapping

1. Mechanical Gelcoat Peeling
   
   • Abrasive blasting or orbital sanding
   • Vacuum extraction of dust and debris

1. Blister Removal and Laminate Repair
   
   • Grinding out osmotic pockets
   • Vacuum-bagged resin infusion or hand lamination

1. Neutralisation and Barrier Coating
   
   • Chemical wash to neutralise acids
   • High-performance epoxy barrier layer

1. Gelcoat Reapplication
   
   • Primer and UV-resistant gelcoat
   • Fine grading, polishing and protective sealant

Total duration varies with vessel size and blister severity. We provide a detailed schedule before work begins.

• Local expertise across the Lake District, Solway Coast and inland waterways
• Fully trained technicians using ISO-aligned methods
• Environmentally responsible abrasives and waste disposal
• Transparent, fixed–price quotes with no hidden fees
• Mobile service options and sheltered workshop facilities