Localized blistering

[Danny C]

I had to leave my boat in the water for a month at the end of the year last year. When I finally pulled it, I found a section about 24" x 4" with blistering. It is hard to notice unless the light hits it just right or you run your hand over it. Feels like very small goosebumps. I tried to take a pic but it does not show up on the picture. Interesting that the hull is perfect everywhere else. I am guessing maybe it was an old repair or something in that one spot. My options are take it to the shop and have them fix it or let it ride. I do most of my own work on the boat but do not really want to get into gelcoat repair. Would letting it go for awhile further damage the hull? I only leave my boat in the water for a day or two max at a time. Thoughts?

 

[alldodge]

Feels like very small goosebumps.

That may not be blisters. Things like goosebumps may just have been and issue with application of Gel on the hull. Blisters are water that gets under the gel and start showing about the size of a dime and are smooth bumps.

If it is blisters, you can do it, they get opened up so they can dry out. Once dry gel is applied and sanded smooth. Gel can be applied with a paint brush, and may need several coats to reach same thickness. Or can mix filler with the gel to make it thicker.

Gel isn't hard to do, it just takes time and sanding from rough to 400 grit or so, then wax

 

[Scott Danforth]

post a pic

may be critters growing on the hull

may be issue with gel like AD mentioned

 

[Danny C]

The reason I was thinking blisters is because it happened right after staying in freshwater lake for 4 weeks. See picture.

 

[Woodonglass]

Based on your description, you have absolutely nothing to be concerned about. Keep her clean and waxed and enjoy the water.

 

[chevymaher]

Sure it isnt painted down there.

 

[Danny C]

Thanks for the responses. It is just concerning when all of a sudden those bumps appear out of nowhere after 16 years (me owning for 5).

I do not believe it is paint. That area looks identical to the rest of the hull. If you are referring to the off coloring in the picture above, that is just dirt. I did not wash the waterline completely.

 

[Scott Danforth]

looks like boat pox (micro-blisters).

may have water-soaked foam on the inside, or a need for wax on the outside. not much you can do at this point other than use the boat. if it gets worse, you may need to do some repairs.

pulled this excerpt.

"This is what you see on the hull. This phenomena usually starts occurring, although it may occur earlier, from the fifth to tenth year after the manufacture of the boat. It occurs when boats are left in the water for long periods of time and happens more frequently in fresh water."

https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/looks-like-chicken-pox-aka-blisters