New Member - Possible '75 restore

[brywheat]

Hello all.
First i want to say this site has some great info and some talented fabricators. Im thinking on taking on a V20 steplift to CC conversion. The Hull is a '75 and in rough shape. I get some pics uploaded shortly. The gel-coat is almost completely shot and peeling away almost all over the exterior of the hull. Do i need to worry about water penetration into the hull fibers itself? The transom, stringers, & cap all will be replaced. Also questions about which materials i should use. Reading alot about resins & cloth to use. I know epoxy is the stongest correct and should be used for transom & stringers. What about vinyl? just as strong? Im sure a million more questions are to come and thanks for any help and guidance.
Thanks!