Restore heavily oxidized gelcoat — like new again.
When compound alone can't cut through years of oxidation, hard water etching, or deep defects, precision wet sanding followed by multi-step machine buffing brings your gelcoat back to a factory-fresh finish.
What this service is really about.
Wet sanding is a controlled level of the gelcoat surface using fine-grit sandpaper and water as a lubricant. It's the most aggressive correction step available — and when done right, it produces results nothing else can match on badly chalked, etched, or stained hulls.
We progressively step through grits (typically 1500 → 2000 → 3000) to refine the surface, then follow with a full compound, polish, and wax cycle so the gelcoat comes back clearer than it's been in years. This is a skilled process — done incorrectly, it burns through gelcoat — which is why we only recommend it when your boat truly needs it.
Real results — from a real crew.
Removes Heavy Oxidation
Cuts through severe chalking, stains, and hard water etching that compound can't touch.
Restores Clarity
Fine progressive grits leave a surface ready to polish to true mirror gloss.
Skilled Application
Controlled level of gelcoat only where needed — protecting hull thickness.
Mobile-Capable
Performed at your dock with proper water management and containment.
Every visit, done right.
- Full assessment and gelcoat thickness check
- Wet sanding with progressive grits (1500/2000/3000)
- Multi-step machine compound and polish
- Premium marine wax seal
- Metal polish and detail wipe-down
- Care recommendations to protect your investment
Four clean steps.
- 1AssessConfirm gelcoat is thick and healthy enough for safe wet sanding.
- 2Wet SandStep through progressive grits with constant water lubrication.
- 3CompoundLevel sanding marks and remove haze with machine compound.
- 4Polish & SealRefine to mirror gloss and lock in with premium marine wax.
Common questions.
Is wet sanding safe for my gelcoat?
When done by trained hands on healthy gelcoat, yes. We check thickness and adjust grits accordingly — this is a professional-only service for a reason.
How long does the finish last?
With a proper wax seal you'll get 3–6 months of protection. Add a ceramic coating on top and you're looking at 1–5+ years, depending on the product.
Do I need this or just compound?
If a strong compound doesn't restore gloss during a test spot, wet sanding is likely needed. We'll do a free assessment before committing.
Ready to book wet sand & buff?
Tell us about your boat and location — we'll reply within the hour, 7 days a week.
Other services we offer.
Compound & Wax
Multi-stage compounding and premium marine wax to remove oxidation, restore deep gloss, and lock in a lasting shine.
Teak Cleaning & Restoration
Two-part teak cleaning, brightening, and sealing to bring gray, weathered decks back to warm honey tones.
Bottom Painting & Repaint
Complete antifouling bottom paint application and repaints — proper prep, quality paints, and clean edges every time.