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Laps and Layers

Updated: 2 hours ago

Alright, let’s break this down in a way that’s easy to understand and kind of fun! When you look at your boat, it’s not just a sleek, shiny surface. It’s actually a protective masterpiece—an intricate stack of invisible layers working together like armor, keeping the elements at bay. These layers are your boat’s defense against UV rays, saltwater, oxidation, and the general wear-and-tear that comes with life on the water.


So, let’s take a dive below the surface and explore exactly what’s going on with these layers, how they stack up, and how they work together to keep your boat in top shape.


Construction Micron Layers (What’s Underneath)

Think of the construction layers as your boat’s foundation—like the layers of a cake but way more durable. Here’s what’s going on:


• Mold Release Wax: A tiny but mighty layer (1-5 microns) that gets applied in the mold so your boat pops out nice and clean. It’s like the non-stick spray for boats!

• Gloss Finish Gelcoat (Clear or Colored): This is your boat’s good looks—100-200 microns thick. It gives that glossy shine and keeps water and UV rays at bay.

• Gelcoat Base Layer: Underneath the gloss, this 400-600 micron layer adds extra strength and protection. It’s like the boat’s muscle.

• Fiberglass Resin & Mat Layers: Now we’re talking strength! These layers (1,500-3,000 microns) are what make sure your boat can take a beating and still stay afloat.

• Epoxy Primer & Paint (Optional): If your boat’s going for the extra fancy finish, you’ve got 50-200 microns of epoxy paint. It’s like putting on a shiny jacket that’s also UV- and saltwater-proof.


 

Correction Micron Layers (Let’s Fix It Up!)


This is where we step in to fix all those pesky scratches and imperfections that happen over time. Whether it’s from sun, salt, or just daily use, here’s what we do:


• Sanding: Think of this like sanding down rough edges. We remove 5-15 microns, depending on how deep the scratch is.

• Compounding: This is where we smooth out the surface, removing 2-10 microns to restore that clean look.

• Polishing: Now we bring the shine back! We’re only removing 1-2 microns, but it’s enough to make it sparkle again.

• Wax Removal (Mold Wax): Leftover wax from production or construction ? We clear that out. It’s more about removing buildup than cutting into layers.


 

Protection Micron Layers (The Shield for Your Boat)


Once we’ve fixed things up, it’s all about locking in that perfection with some next-level protection. Here’s the scoop:


• Standard Wax Coating: This is the basic layer, about 1-5 microns thick. It’s like sunscreen for your boat—good for a little while, but needs reapplication often.


• Premium Wax Coating: A step up—5-10 microns of longer-lasting UV protection. It’s like a high-SPF sunscreen.


• Ceramic Coating: Want long-term protection? This 2-5 micron coating creates a hydrophobic (water-repelling) surface that’s tougher than wax and lasts much longer.


• Permanon Yacht Super Shine SiO2 Coating: This is like the ninja of coatings—super thin (less than 1 micron!) but incredibly effective at blocking UV rays and making your boat super easy to clean. Lasts 6-12 months, but don’t let its thinness fool you—it’s a powerhouse!


• Spike’s PT (Protectin Thangs) PTFE Coating: Now we’re getting serious. This 5-10 micron PTFE layer is the ultimate defender. It bonds through polarization, creating a shield that’s hydrophobic, UV-resistant, and incredibly slick. Your boat will practically repel dirt, water, and anything else that comes its way.


With these layers working together, your boat isn’t just looking good—it’s protected good. Now you know a bit more about the science behind the shine and the hours of work that go into making every boat absolutely flawless.


If you want to know for sure - BOOK SPIKE NOW



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