RESIN?

[INOVERMYHEAD]

I'm looking to tackle a complete rebuild and have a few questions before I waste too much time.  I have read about different resins (epoxy vs polyester vs vinyl), What is everyone using for for structure (stringers, bulkhead, etc.)?  It seems that most people use 1.5 oz mat, 1708 and 1708 for the structure is this the norm and does that have adequate strength for all under deck applications.  I have done some basic fiberglass and want to learn the most I can, before I have it all over the place.

[Capt. Bob]

Since you have a working knowledge of glass, this may not be of interest but you never know.

viewtopic.php?p=18970#p18970

Try searching the larger re-build threads (if you haven't already). They usually contain the type resin and glass the re-builder is using within the different areas of the hull. Helped me decide on a small repair but can be a tremendous help on the "big project".

Lastly, I'm quite sure you will get some input on the "best" resin to use. It has been "debated" here before.
Just don't ask about gel coat.

Good luck.

[dbiscayne]

I'm a fan of epoxy, can get it for $37/ gallon for the 1:2 mix here in West Palm Beach.  Vinylester seems to be about the same price, and the poly about $25.  Considering the amount of poly I waste cause it kicks off too soon it ends up not saving me much money at all in the long run.  Just can't gelcoat over the epoxy.

[John Jones]

Just can't gelcoat over the epoxy.

I like epoxy too but because of the problems with gelcoat or paint I only use it for structural jobs where the looks don't matter so much.

As a side note, Marine-Tex is nice for filling screw holes and such but keep in mind it is an epoxy and will cause the same issues.

[billsaquasport]

I would go with epoxy. I just finished up my transom and my brothers seacraft transom and dont know if I would ever go back to polyester or vinyl ester resin again. I think the real advantage to epoxy is its abillity to bond to the substrate. I cleaned tools with isapropyl alchohol and wiped everything down prior to glassing with the alchohol. May be a bit more expensive but working it was great. Also epoxy works great with all of the fillers that are available like micro ballons and cabosil. Im sure there are great sights out there with tons of comparisons between the two. Take care and good luck.

[Marcq]

I think epoxy is overkill for our boats, with the right prep and knowledge of the product we use , poly is plenty even structurally , unless  you plan on beating the sh*t out of your boat  

Marc..