Spider cracks.

[mensie]

We are giving our new to us boler a complete make over interior and exterior. The outside has some spider cracking going on what would you do give a paint job or a new Gel coat .
Not sure what the price difference is but what would you do?

[Darwin Maring]

ME: I would prefer a new paint job in something special.

[Jack L]

Spider web cracks are just cosmetic cracks in the gel coat. A good shop that repairs fiberglass boats could grind out the cracked gel coat and re gel coat that area. Color match and cost would be my concern here. Old oxidized gel coat could be hard to color match. If you choose to repaint the whole trailer. the cracked gel goat would have to be removed and the area repaired before painting or the cracks will just "telegraph" thru the new paint. I'm not sure where you are in your trailer reconditioning process so you might consider making this decision one of the last in the reconditioning process. The cracks are unlikely to get worse and they are not structural.

If you decide to do a paint job, preparation is a huge part of the job. All windows, hatches, vents etc. need to be removed and all surfaces sanded. If the gel coat is oxidized and faded, painting would be the best option.

Me, unless it's really bad, I would just go camping and work on other trailer projects.

[Ken Max]

Another possibility that is used in the marine world is " Capt Tully's creeping crack cure " Look for it at West Marine or other marine suppliers .
Me I use Zep Floor Wax - which seems to me to be about the same as Capt Tully's - I use it with a small syringe -- put a little in the crack - a very little - let it harden - for a day or two - add a little more - repeat !

Such cracks are not structural -- but will worsen when moisture freezes in them .

Best
Ken