Gelcoat and paint are the 2 most commonly used options to restore the features and aesthetics of various structures and objects such as boats, water slides, pools, etc. When it comes to choosing between the two, it’s often difficult to decide because they both share some similarities and usage.
In a nutshell, gelcoat provides a long-lasting solution that can help the material endure environmental stress and friction whereas paint is a budget-friendly, short term solution to help improve the aesthetics of the material quickly.
In this article, we will dive into the details between gelcoat vs paint, compare the two, and ultimately which one you should choose, especially when it comes to things like water slides, pools and boats where the surface is constantly exposed to water and friction.
Difference Between Gelcoat and Paint
Gelcoat is a resin-based coating used as a protective layer over fiberglass structures, including water slides, boats, and pools. It is sprayed or brushed onto a mold before the fiberglass is applied, creating a smooth, durable, and waterproof finish.
Paint in water park restoration refers to epoxy-based or polyurethane coatings that adhere to fiberglass, metal, or concrete surfaces. Unlike gelcoat, which is integrated into the fiberglass, paint is applied as a topcoat after surface preparation.
Here’s the comparison table between the two:
| Property | Gelcoat | Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Extremely durable, lasting 10-15 years with proper maintenance. | Less durable, may need reapplication every 3-5 years. |
| Water Resistance | Fully waterproof, prevents water infiltration and structural damage. | Requires sealers or primers for waterproofing. |
| UV Protection | UV-resistant, reducing fading and discoloration. | Prone to UV damage unless a UV-protective clear coat is added. |
| Chemical Resistance | Highly resistant to chlorine, acids, and pool chemicals. | Can degrade faster due to exposure to pool chemicals. |
| Application Process | Sprayed or rolled onto fiberglass during manufacturing or restoration. | Can be sprayed, brushed, or rolled onto surfaces. |
| Smoothness & Ride Experience | Provides a super-smooth surface, ensuring a fast and enjoyable slide. | May create slight friction if not polished properly. |
| Repairability | Minor cracks can be buffed out; deep cracks require re-gelcoating. | Easier to touch up but may require frequent repainting. |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost but lower maintenance over time. | Lower initial cost but requires frequent reapplication, increasing long-term expenses. |
| Color Retention | Retains color for years, even with heavy sun and water exposure. | Fades faster, especially under UV rays. |
| Maintenance | Minimal maintenance, just regular cleaning and occasional buffing. | Requires regular repainting and recoating to maintain appearance. |
Which One To Choose?
Choose gelcoat If:
- You want a long-lasting solution that can endure high water exposure and rider friction.
- Your water slides are made of fiberglass and need resurfacing.
- You prefer a smoother, more professional finish with minimal maintenance.
Choose paint if:
- You need a budget-friendly short-term fix for color restoration.
- You’re repainting metal railings, walkways, or non-slide surfaces.
- Your project requires quick application with easier touch-ups.
Get In Touch With Our Waterpark Restoration Expert
If you own a waterpark and are looking for a reliable waterpark restoration company to help you restore and improve the attraction, then get in touch with us. When it comes to choosing between gelcoat and paint for your water slides, it’s sometimes best to let the experts like us decide and do them for you. At our firm, we only use high-quality gel coating materials and paints to ensure the best work is delivered. Contact us now for more information or call 1-844-SLD-RITE.