Boat Gelcoat & Fiberglass Repair

Repair gelcoat, fiberglass, and hull damage on boats and yachts

Startup Cost
$25,000-$90,000
Difficulty
Advanced
Time to Profit
10-18 months
Profit Potential
$8,000-$29,000/month

Overview

Gelcoat and fiberglass specialists charge $75-$125 per hour.

Repairing 80-200 boats annually generates $100,000-$350,000 with 65-80% margins.

In 2025, fiberglass boats require periodic gelcoat and structural repair.

Services include gelcoat repair and refinishing ($200-$2,000), fiberglass blister repair ($500-$3,000), hull crack and damage repair ($400-$4,000), deck and stringer repair ($1,000-$8,000), cosmetic refinishing ($800-$4,000), and osmosis treatment ($2,000-$10,000).

Successful specialists master gelcoat color matching, provide structural fiberglass repairs, restore boat appearance and value, work at marinas or offer pickup, and guarantee waterproof repairs.

Can specialize in high-end yacht work.

Marketing through marinas, marine surveyors, boat yards, and insurance claims.

Required Skills

  • Fiberglass Repair
  • Gelcoat Application
  • Color Matching
  • Structural Repair
  • Surface Finishing
  • Quality Control

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • All fiberglass boats eventually need repair
  • High margins on specialized work
  • Insurance claims provide work
  • Can prevent catastrophic damage
  • Restores boat value

Cons

  • Need fiberglass expertise
  • Physical demanding work
  • Seasonal repair patterns
  • Gelcoat color matching challenging
  • Work environment (dust, fumes)

How to Get Started

  1. Learn fiberglass and gelcoat repair
  2. Set up shop or mobile service
  3. Invest in gelcoat and fiberglass supplies
  4. Market to marinas and boat yards
  5. Work with marine surveyors and insurance
  6. Master color matching techniques
  7. Build reputation for quality repairs

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