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Gelcoat (GRP yacht finish)

Defined term — gelcoat on polyester GRP hulls: cosmetic layer, osmosis blisters, repair scope and survey language.

Definition

Gelcoat is the outer cosmetic resin layer on most polyester GRP hulls — pigmented, smooth, and the first line of defence against water ingress. It is not structural; damage here still matters for osmosis and resale.

Survey language

Surveyors note pinholes, stress cracks, and blisters in gelcoat. Distinguish cosmetic gelcoat cracks from flexing laminate issues below.

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