Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

[Bill Matuscak]

I am doing floor and transom replacement on a 14ft trihull. First time project. I cut out rotten floor and while cleaning debris from hull noticed areas where light penetrates hull. Holding a trouble light under the hull and looking inside makes these areas stand out. They are just small spots (the largest about 4in.x4in.) in various places. Looking inside the hull with no light, the fiberglass seems well bonded with no lumps, bubbles or obvious thin spots.<br /> Should I add extra glass to these areas before replacing the floor or is this situation normal? I've read a lot of the posts here about floor/transom work but could not find any mention of light penetration in the bare hull.

 

[ratherbefishin]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

fiberglass will transmit light unless covered by paint or coloring.You could just be looking at a spot that had no opaque coating.As long as the gel coat is intact, I wouldn't think you have a problem.

 

[TooTired]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

I have a small spot in the cabin of my 20 footer that a has no carpet and I noticed the same thing. I don't think there is anything to worry about as long as the hull is solid. I my case the hull is very solid.

 

[nailbender2155]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

you might want to add more fiberglass anyway,,just to give yourself that "peace of mind" when you go out on the water. you'll never have a better oppportunity than at your present stage of rebuild.

 

[JasonJ]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

Its fine, don't worry about it.

 

[G DANE]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

Mine is exactly same was when the sun hits the outside. I tried knocking on the thin looking spots, but they dont seem soft. I think its the thickness of the gel coat that differs in these spots.

 

[coachmup]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

same thing on mine when viewed from below.

 

[Hooty]

Re: Can See Light Thru Hull. Is This A Problem?

What you're seeing is areas where the gelcoat's thin. It may not hurt anything, just depends how close to the surface the glass is.<br /><br />c/6<br />Hooty