Welcome to the World of WEST SYSTEM

WEST SYSTEM: Epoxy pioneers

Since the company was founded, Meade and Jan Gougeon, the brains behind WEST SYSTEM, have left a lasting impression on the market for epoxy composites. Their relentless pursuit of perfection and strong pioneering spirit helped WEST SYSTEM quickly cement its position as the leading supplier of epoxy products. Skills and knowledge gained through years of racing, boatbuilding and scientific research have put WEST SYSTEM at the forefront of epoxy composite technology.

The WEST SYSTEM story began after the Second World War, when boats were hard to come by and the Gougeon brothers took to building their own boats in Saginaw Bay on Lake Huron in Michigan (USA). They started by building simple boats held together with nails and glue and later moved on to the development of the first large wooden boats fully bonded and sealed with epoxy without the use of fasteners. The journey culminated in the construction of the trimaran Adagio in 1970, the first large, all epoxy bonded and sealed wooden boat built without the use of fasteners, and still serves as proof of the longevity and performance of epoxy technology today.

Working closely with Dow Chemical, they eventually overcame the challenges of wooden boat building and developed a wide range of innovative WEST SYSTEM Epoxy products. The revolutionary potential of epoxy technology was clear and thanks to its outstanding quality, ease of use and excellent durability, boatbuilding would never be the same again. The manufacturer now offers an extensive range of epoxy resins, hardeners, fillers and accessories for sealing & bonding, which make the construction of new yachts and repair work considerably easier.

Decades later, the brand remains at the cutting edge of epoxy composite technology. Through continuous research and development, WEST SYSTEM Deutschland has established itself as an indispensable partner for boat builders and repair professionals. The company's history, from its humble beginnings to global success, is a testament to the vision and commitment of the Gougeon brothers who have changed boat and yacht building forever.

Why do I need WEST SYSTEM Epoxy?

WEST SYSTEM Epoxy is a versatile epoxy resin system developed for a wide range of applications. It is particularly known for its high strength, excellent water resistance and ease of use. These properties make it an ideal material for sealing & bonding in boatbuilding and for repairs to the hull. The resin system protects wood from moisture and rotting, strengthens the structure and provides a long-lasting finish.

In addition to maritime applications, Epoxy WEST SYSTEM also provides excellent solutions for general wood work. It seals and protects wood structures, making it an invaluable material for high-quality wood projects. In model making, especially in the construction of aeroplanes and ships, epoxy resin enables precise and robust production.

In addition, WEST SYSTEM epoxy resin is ideal for all repairs to a wide range of materials, including vehicles, furniture and plastics. It provides a strong hold and can even be used in the manufacture of composite parts by acting as a binder for reinforcement with materials such as carbon fibre and glass fibre.

Want to buy WEST SYSTEM Epoxy? Top quality and suitable for a range of applications, it is a valuable resource for professionals and hobbyists alike. In our detailed guide ‘All about epoxy repairs on boats’, we outline the differences between polyester resins and epoxy resins, as well as essential application instructions and processing tips to help you decide which to buy. For those interested, WEST SYSTEM Epoxy is available online directly here in our SVB Shop.

Epoxy repairs to the boat: Materials, tools and tips for use

Epoxy resins is an essential component in the field of boat maintenance and repair. It is not only used for sealing & bonding, but also for structural reinforcement to the hull. However, successful application also requires the right tools and equipment. Painting rollers, for example, are essential for evenly applying the resin to larger surfaces, while special adhesive removers are used to remove old layers of resin or unwanted adhesive residue.

Fillers play a crucial role in giving epoxy mixtures the desired consistency for different repair jobs. They can help fill gaps or create a stronger bond between repaired parts. Accessories for sealing & bonding, such as spatulas and mixing cups, are also important to ensure precise and efficient application.

For specific repairs, repair kits for the hull are a practical solution. These kits offer a comprehensive solution for common problems such as cracks, holes or water damage to the hull.

Keep your yacht well maintained and seaworthy by making sure you fully understand everything about the properties and application methods of epoxy resin and enjoy your sailing to its fullest. You can find out all about epoxy repairs on boats in our SVB guide.