How to Refinish a Travel Trailer Fiberglass Exterior

Fiberglass is a durable material often used in boats and trailers. It typically has a shiny appearance due to a gelcoat exterior and, while it is scratch-resistant, it is not scratch-proof. The color also fades over time due to sun exposure and wear from wind and rain. Severely damaged fiberglass requires replacement, but worn surfaces can be refinished so their previous luster is restored. Refinishing a travel trailer fiberglass exterior requires some work, but the result makes the trailer look like new again.

Pressure washer
Sander
Coarse sandpaper
Surfacing putty
Spray-on gelcoat
Medium- and fine-grade sandpaper
Clean rag
Fiberglass polish
Epoxy or urethane-based paint
Paint sprayer

Instructions

- 1
  Wash off the trailer with a pressure washer to remove dirt from the fiberglass surface. The trailer needs to be completely clean before continuing.
- 2
  Apply a sander with a coarse sandpaper to the fiberglass to grind down the gelcoat. The old gelcoat is worn and scratched — which is why the trailer needs refinishing — so grinding it down helps eliminate those blemishes. Rinse off the trailer after you're finished to remove any loose sand.
- 3
  Fill in any damaged fiberglass with surfacing putty and let it dry.
- 4
  Spray on a new layer of gelcoat over the fiberglass after the trailer is dry from the rinsing. Sand the new layer with medium-grade sandpaper after it cures and then switch to fine sandpaper after you've gone over the entire trailer. Apply a fiberglass polish to the finish with a rag to regain its shine.
- 5
  Paint the trailer with either an epoxy or urethane-based paint using a paint sprayer. The paint is durable and helps make the trailer look like new again.

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