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Istanbul, Bodrum, Marmaris, Göcek & Yalıkavak

Appointment-based premium detailing services

+90 534 665 41 53

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Yacht & Boat Compounding, Gelcoat Oxidation Removal and Polishing

Cutting back oxidised, chalky gelcoat and restoring colour and gloss to the hull, then sealing it with a protective wax.

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Salt, sun and seawater slowly oxidise the gelcoat on a fibreglass hull. The surface goes chalky first, then white hulls yellow and coloured hulls fade.

Compounding removes that thin oxidised layer under control and brings back the sound gelcoat underneath, after which a protective wax layer seals the surface.

We grade the work to how far the oxidation has gone: light chalking needs a single polishing stage, while heavy oxidation gets a multi-stage program running from cutting compound down to fine polish.

What the service covers

Steps completed in our compounding and polishing service:

  • Hull pre-wash, removing salt, grime and algae residue
  • Measuring the degree of oxidation and setting the compound grade
  • Cutting compound to remove the oxidised gelcoat layer
  • Intermediate stage to clear machine marks
  • Fine polish for depth of gloss
  • Yellowing and stain removal on white hulls
  • Dedicated treatment for waterline staining
  • Oxidation removal and polishing on chrome and stainless fittings
  • Protective wax layer to seal the surface
  • Consistent finish across topsides and superstructure

Process

  1. 1. Hull inspection

    Oxidation, yellowing and scratch depth are assessed, and a small test area establishes which compound grade the hull needs.

  2. 2. Wash and preparation

    Salt, grime and algae residue are removed, and fittings and trim that are not being polished are masked off.

  3. 3. Staged compounding

    Stages run from cutting compound down to fine polish, removing oxidation and clearing machine marks. Heat is monitored so the gelcoat is never burned.

  4. 4. Protection and handover

    The surface is sealed with a protective wax, checked against the list and handed over with the captain or yacht management.

Why this service?

A chalky hull makes a yacht look neglected regardless of its age, and it directly reduces resale value.

Gelcoat oxidation is reversible as long as it stays superficial; left alone, the layer thins until paint is the only option. Compounding at the start of the season or before a sale both restores the look and protects the gelcoat.

Frequently asked questions about this service

How often should a hull be compounded?
Once a year at the start of the season is usually enough. Boats kept uncovered with heavy sun exposure do better with twice a year.
Will a yellowed white hull go back to its original colour?
Largely yes, as long as the yellowing sits in the gelcoat surface. If the layer has thinned too far we recommend paint instead, and we say so clearly at the inspection stage.
Does compounding damage the gelcoat?
Not with the right compound grade and heat control. Damage comes from overly aggressive compound or working one spot too long, which is why we work in stages and test first.
Do you apply antifouling?
No. We do compounding, gelcoat polishing and chrome/stainless polishing. We do not offer antifouling or ceramic coating.

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