Messy Cetol on NonSkid

[lmitchell]

The PO did a pretty sloppy job of applying Cetol to the toe rail. Some splatters are on the non skid. Any way to remove it? Also, if I wait will the Cetol eventually degrade off the toe rails or should I start scraping and sanding to get rid of it. I'd like to have unfinished toe rails.

Thanks,
Lawson Mitchell
S/V Periwinkle
Pearson 39-2

[TrueBlue]

If you want the natural look, don't scrape & sand the Cetol off your toerails. Buy a hot air gun ($25-$30) and easily scrape the old finish off in ribbons. Then, lightly finish sand with 150 grit - 80 grit if recoating.

The best way I've found for removing dried Cetol from fiberglass, is by either carefully scraping, if only small drips, or with larger areas a very light coating of liquid paint stripper may be necessary - immediately followed by burnishing with a cloth or ScotchBrite pad. Don't allow the stripper to stay on for longer than a few seconds.

Either way, apply rubbing compound and wax to finish the gelcoat. Non-skid Cetol stains will present more of a challenge.

[Gary M]

The paint stripper is probably a good idea but get one that is meant to be used on fibreglass, Interlux for instance makes it.
If you use some from Home Depot it will damage the fibreglass if applied directly to it. The Marine stuff is more expensive but you will only need a quart.

[soul searcher]

be real careful of heat guns around gelcoat It doesnt take much to bubble or burn through. try wipeing the stains with acetone. or goof off. or if your down south just let the sun take care of it.

matt