Part 2:
Now for the most dreaded question of any boating forum. I haven't been able to find the information I've wanted for a long time. It's down the road but I'm either going to paint (Automotive BB/CC, either custom shop (which I hear is just rebranded PPG) or the SPI that fireman uses) or gelcoat. Being a Glastron the two tone adds some difficulty. Also the CVX 16 is a very complex shape, more so than some others, with its moulded striped swoosh and vent up front. I feel bad starting this thread being all like Im going to make this all originally and flip flopping about as things get difficult.
Looking for some opinions for each and some thoughts & concerns I have.
Gelcoat: I like the durability, longevity, originality, and price. However, i'm worried about the excessive thickness over the existing gelcoat, and not being able to catch all the damage, crazing cracks and damage is everywhere on my boat, and after all the work gel coating just to get cracking and spider webbing soon after. The masking and sanding kind of scares me as well, I don't want to mess it up.
Paint: I like the flexibility (not cracking like gelcoat might), how good it looks, with BB/CC two tone will be a snap. The price is a little steeper which is not a gigantic concern but I take it into account. I have more time than money. I'm concerned about it's durability and longevity, this will be a trailer boat not staying in the water for more than a day. Which is good because paint but also I worry the trailer may wear the paint off the bottom/front. Originality isn't a big concern, but I'm worried about painting with flake, I don't want to mess that up, or use many gallons of clear. So I might go for a pearl or metallic finish.
So in the end Im looking for the system that will look good the longest. I know gelcoat may hold on and buff up for 50 years but I don't want it if it's cracking up in 3 years. Paint I hear lasts between 3-20 years, I don't want to do this again soon. This is probably like 3rd time I've asked this and I'm very sorry for that. Please point out anywhere I'm misinformed and any opinions and experiences with both systems and how'd it'd apply to me thank you!!