On Feb 11, 7:08*am, Walt Connelly Walt.Connelly.
wrote:
I see planes that are "refinished" in polyurethane. *Is this different
from GelCoat?

Yes. Gelcoat is polyester. Polyurethane is well--polyurethane.

*I have looked at ships whose gelcoat is horrible and
understand that it can cost in excess of 20K dollars to refinish
properly.

Or more. Have somebody who knows composites look at the glider and see
if stuff is just cosmetic and try to get a firm quote on a refinish
before you buy of you go that route.

*Is PU more durable than Gelcoat? *

Yes and especially more resistant to UV/sun damage. There is usually a
polyester layer between the epoxy/composite and the polyurethane
paint. - especially on a refinish -- where a lot depends on how well
most of the existing gelcoat has been removed before the PU paint is
applied.

A refinish might cost $20k or more but might be *worth* much less--it
depends on how well it was done.

Is one better than the
other? *

If properly done there is really little reason to argue for gel coat,
except that maybe the argument that it is easier to repair.

The glass vs aluminum thing has me leaning toward aluminum big
time. *I don't ever expect to be competing seriously in cross country
competition so a bird for local fun might be adequate.

Aluminum gliders can have their own issues, corrosion, fatigue, etc.
Ask a Blanik owner.

Walt

--
Walt Connelly


Darryl