Skwol Academy
A completely free, no-nonsense educational resource to help boaters correct, protect and maintain their boats.
Introduction
Addressing an overcomplicated process with our simple how-to series. Correction restores the finish, protection helps preserve it, and maintenance keeps it clean. Understanding each purpose makes boat care simpler.
First time?
New to correcting and protecting gelcoat? Start here. Learn the science behind proper boat care and the techniques that help you achieve a lasting finish.
What is oxidation?
Oxidation is the gradual breakdown of gelcoat caused by sunlight and weather exposure. Over time, the surface loses its color and gloss and can become chalky. Harsh chemicals and inadequate protection can worsen deterioration, making the finish more difficult to restore.
Correct before you protect
Address oxidation and surface defects before applying protection. Sealants and coatings preserve the finish you achieve; they don’t replace correction.
Lesson 1
Myths & Misconceptions
Discussing the common misconceptions.
There’s more than one way to correct gelcoat
Sanding and multi-stage compounding aren’t always necessary. The right approach depends on the surface, followed by proper protection and maintenance.
Compounding, polishing and waxing aren’t the same
Compounding removes oxidation and defects. Polishing refines gloss. Waxing adds protection. Each serves a different purpose.
Look beyond “professional grade”
A compound’s formula determines how it cuts, works and finishes. Understand what’s inside the bottle, rather than relying on the label alone.
Lesson 2
Compounds
Comparing compounds and their unique purposes.
Match the cut to the condition
Heavy-cut, medium-cut and finishing compounds serve different purposes. More aggressive correction may require finer polishing to refine the finish.
Diminishing abrasives cut and refine
These abrasive particles break down as you work, allowing the formula to move from cutting toward a finer finish.
Consider the whole process
Choosing an approach means weighing your time, budget and whether you’ll do the work yourself or hire a professional.
Lesson 3
Tools
Reviewing the tools for the job
Match your machine, pad and compound
The demonstrated setup pairs a 6-inch, 21 mm dual-action polisher with a foamed-wool pad and diminishing abrasive compound.
Keep your pads clean
Oxidation and compound build up in the pad as you work. Rotate clean pads regularly; the lesson recommends about every five linear feet of boat.
Choose towels for the task
Use the towel that suits the job. The lesson pairs lower-GSM towels with application and higher-GSM towels with residue removal.
Lesson 4
Application
Techniques and application methods.
Related Products
Start with a properly prepared surface
Remove dirt, grease and remaining protection before compounding. Preparation helps keep contamination from interfering with correction. Preparing for correction is different from routine cleaning. Once the surface is protected, use a pH-neutral wash to help maintain it.
Work small. Keep the pad flat.
Work sections about two feet across with slow, overlapping passes. Use minimal pressure and keep the pad clean rather than saturated.
Protect your restored finish
Remove compound residue, then apply AF-S Marine Sealant in small sections. Spread, flip the towel and buff by hand, allowing the 24-hour cure described in the video.
Troubleshooting
Before You Start (Most Important Step)
Most issues can be avoided before the machine even turns on.
- Work on a cool surface, out of direct sunlight
- Wash thoroughly with a pH-neutral soap
- Remove contaminants (salt, grime, buildup)
- Always test a small section first
- Start with least aggressive method, then adjust
Recommended Setup (Baseline)
- Machine: Dual Action (DA) polisher preferred
- Speed: Moderate (adjust based on results)
- Pads: Use multiple pads—do not rely on one
- Technique: Light–moderate pressure, slow arm speed, overlapping passes
Results depend on machine type, pad selection, technique, and surface condition.
Shine isn't being restored
What’s happening:
Oxidation is heavier than expected or not fully removed.
Fix:
- Increase working time (slower passes)
- Apply slightly more pressure
- Switch to a more aggressive pad
- Work smaller sections (2’x2’)
NOTE: Generally, when gelcoat is significantly oxidized or severely degraded, a compound alone may not fully restore the surface. In those cases, more aggressive surface correction methods such as wet sanding are sometimes required before compounding and polishing. Outcomes can vary widely depending on the condition of the gelcoat, as well as the tools, pads, and techniques used during the process.
Results appear hazy or cloudy
What’s happening:
Micro-marring from pad choice, speed, or technique.
Fix:
- Reduce pressure
- Clean or swap pad
- Slow machine speed slightly
- Do one final light pass
Swirl marks or holograms appearing
What’s happening:
Typically from rotary use, angle, or excess pressure.
Fix:
- Keep pad flat at all times
- Reduce speed and pressure
- Follow with a DA for refinement (if available)
- Avoid dry buffing
Product is drying too fast
What’s happening:
Heat buildup or overworking the product.
Fix:
- Work in shade
- Use less product
- Clean pad more frequently
- Reduce speed / pressure
Uneven results, blotchy or patchy finish
What’s happening:
Inconsistent technique or missed oxidation.
Fix:
- Work in smaller sections
- Overlap passes by ~50%
- Maintain consistent arm speed
- Ensure full oxidation removal before moving on
Pad is clogging or not working anymore
What’s happening:
Oxidation + product buildup reducing effectiveness.
Fix:
- Clean pad frequently during use
- Rotate between multiple pads
- Replace pad if overly saturated
After Correction (Do Not Skip This)
Once oxidation is removed:Wipe surface cleanApply a long-term protectant (ceramic sealant recommended)Maintain using pH-neutral cleaners onlySkipping protection will allow oxidation to return quickly.
Important Notes
Results vary based on surface condition, technique, tools, and environment. Improper machine use, excessive pressure, or incorrect pad selection can cause surface damage. Always test a small area before full application.
Need Help?
(786) 292-4903
info@skwol.us
We’re here to help guide you to the best result possible.
If you have questions about:
- Pad selection
- Machine setup
- Technique
Reach out and we’ll point you in the right direction.