What is the proper wet-gage thickness of gel coat?

The proper wet-gage thickness for gel coat is typically specified to be between 18 and 22 mils. This range is essential for ensuring that the gel coat provides sufficient protection and aesthetic appeal when applied to composite surfaces.

A thickness within this range allows for optimal performance characteristics, such as maintaining the glossy finish and providing a durable barrier against environmental factors, such as UV exposure and moisture. If the gel coat is too thin, it may not adequately shield the underlying layers from damage, while too thick of an application can lead to issues such as sagging or improper curing.

Adhering to the recommended thickness also helps in achieving uniformity in appearance, which is especially important in marine applications where aesthetics are closely scrutinized. Thus, the specification of 18-22 mils is grounded in practical requirements for both performance and longevity of the gel coat in composite applications.