HULL PRO: RESTORING & PROTECTING A NAUTICSTAR

April 28, 2024

VALPARAISO, FL

K & K BOATWORKS

K&K Boatworks, one of only three certified Hull Pro installers on the Gulf Coast, recently completed a high-stakes install on a NauticStar with significant bunk damage. With careful gelcoat repairs, expert prep, and a suspended hull for flawless application, this project showcases the real-world protection and polish Hull Pro offers.

NauticStar boats are known for their versatility on both inshore and nearshore waters—but that doesn't make them immune to the wear and tear that comes with regular transport and storage. When one such vessel showed up at K&K Boatworks with gelcoat damage from trailer bunks, the team sprang into action. After a full repair and precision prep, Hull Pro was applied not just to restore the vessel’s finish, but to protect it long-term. This case study highlights the craftsmanship, performance benefits, and real-world protection Hull Pro delivers—especially when applied by professionals like K&K.

REPAIR, RESTORE, AND REINFORCE WITH HULL PRO

The NauticStar’s hull bore the clear signs of heavy use—deep gouges in the gelcoat from trailer bunks, particularly near the keel and chine areas. Before any coating work could begin, K&K Boatworks expertly handled the repairs, bringing the surface back to spec with precision sanding, color matching, and polishing. Gelcoat damage like this is all too common, especially for vessels regularly trailered or dry-stacked. And without added protection, it’s bound to happen again.

That’s why Hull Pro became the obvious next step. Designed to bond directly to fiberglass, gelcoat, and painted marine surfaces, this clear nano-epoxy coating not only locks in a high-gloss finish but offers excellent impact resistance and abrasion protection. Once applied, the repaired areas were not only restored but reinforced—effectively giving the hull a shield against future scarring from bunks, lifts, or marine debris.

HIGH-STAKES APPLICATION, FLAWLESS RESULTS

To ensure a smooth, continuous finish with no coating voids or missed areas, the team at K&K Boatworks made the bold decision to suspend the boat mid-air during the Hull Pro application. This allowed them to work on the full hull in a single pass without the interference of blocks or bunks. The process required patience, experience, and confidence, especially with a newly repaired surface.

Using a fine roller and tipping technique, K&K achieved a remarkably smooth laydown with minimal correction needed. Hull Pro’s self-leveling properties helped it bond cleanly across all contours of the hull. The result? A glassy, high-shine finish that enhanced the boat’s lines and amplified the deep color of the hull gelcoat. The lift and application were a nail-biting endeavor, but the results spoke for themselves: professional-grade gloss and lasting defense.

GELCOAT PROTECTION THAT PAYS OFF

Hull Pro does more than just shine—it protects. Gelcoat is notoriously prone to oxidation, UV fading, and micro-abrasions, especially in warmer southern climates. For a boat like this NauticStar, which is frequently trailered, lifted, and exposed to the sun, that damage can accumulate quickly. K&K knew Hull Pro would deliver serious long-term value, especially in preventing repeated bunk rash and costly touch-up jobs.

Once cured, Hull Pro forms a rock-hard yet flexible layer over the gelcoat. It guards against water intrusion (hull osmosis), abrasion from debris or storage contact, and UV degradation. Importantly, Hull Pro isn’t sacrificial—it doesn’t need to be reapplied each season like wax or polymer coatings. That’s less labor, less cost, and more peace of mind for owners who want to protect their investment and enjoy more time on the water.

K&K BOATWORKS, A CERTIFIED GULF COAST INSTALLER YOU CAN TRUST

K&K Boatworks is proud to be one of only three certified Hull Pro installers along the Gulf Coast, serving boaters who want the best in marine protection. Their commitment to excellence is obvious in everything they do—from expert repairs to high-skill applications and transparent client communication. Their hands-on knowledge and willingness to push for the perfect result make them a standout partner for Armus Marine.

If you’re anywhere along the Gulf Coast and interested in protecting your vessel with Hull Pro, K&K Boatworks is a name you can trust. They’re available for quotes, consultations, and custom installs that match your boating needs and hull condition. Whether you're dealing with bunk rash or just want lasting gloss and performance gains, reach out to K&K to learn more.