Gel coat cracks

[PeterSz]

Advice please

Hi. I have a Beneteau 411 2001. There are some cracks on the gel coat here and there. It’s not too bad but every time I clean the boat I find some new. How can I prevent the gel coat to crack?
Thanks

[Hesti]

Where are the cracks? Near load bearing points, near corners or in the middle of surfaces?


If the cracks are near load bearing points, you could reinforce locally with pads from the inside.


If they are near corners or just in bigger surfaces, you might be able to stiffen from the inside, but it may not be easy due to all the internal caldding and structure. If they are developing along lines like parallel to the deck edge - it just might be possible that some core is getting wet and swelling.


So, it depends on what is causing the cracks.