Hi all,
I have a 1987 Reinell 215c that is nearing the need to have a couple of small sections of deck replaced. One is the section that is approximately 2'x3' directly forward of the engine compartment. After 20+ years it is getting a little soft, at least along the aft edge. I don't think it is rotting, just getting soft from being walked on all this time. I can only see the aft edge of the piece and it does not appear to be glassed. Just painted plywood, and there doesn't seem to be any additional support across the aft end so it is only 3/4" plywood. It does not appear to be structural and is mostly there to cover the gas tank.
I also have a removable section of decking forward of that. It is the same width, but closer to 2.5' long, and is carpeted on all sides. It has been banged around, dropped, kicked and generally abused for 20+ years too, and it has softened to the point where it is getting dangerous. It is supported on the sides only and there is an extra piece along the forward end for additional support, but nothing along the aft edge for some reason.
What I am considering is pulling those sections out and replacing them with something like StarBoard, or some other waterproof composite material. I have read several threads that discuss composites for stringers and transom use, but I haven't found anything yet that discusses using it for decking. Especially a small sections like these that do not appear to be structural.
My two main concerns are 1) - would a 3/4" thickness be strong enough to support people walking on it? and 2) I understand that there are no adhesives that will stick to it, so how would I get carpeting to stay put? Is there anything else I should be aware of?
TIA,
Wayne
I have a 1987 Reinell 215c that is nearing the need to have a couple of small sections of deck replaced. One is the section that is approximately 2'x3' directly forward of the engine compartment. After 20+ years it is getting a little soft, at least along the aft edge. I don't think it is rotting, just getting soft from being walked on all this time. I can only see the aft edge of the piece and it does not appear to be glassed. Just painted plywood, and there doesn't seem to be any additional support across the aft end so it is only 3/4" plywood. It does not appear to be structural and is mostly there to cover the gas tank.
I also have a removable section of decking forward of that. It is the same width, but closer to 2.5' long, and is carpeted on all sides. It has been banged around, dropped, kicked and generally abused for 20+ years too, and it has softened to the point where it is getting dangerous. It is supported on the sides only and there is an extra piece along the forward end for additional support, but nothing along the aft edge for some reason.
What I am considering is pulling those sections out and replacing them with something like StarBoard, or some other waterproof composite material. I have read several threads that discuss composites for stringers and transom use, but I haven't found anything yet that discusses using it for decking. Especially a small sections like these that do not appear to be structural.
My two main concerns are 1) - would a 3/4" thickness be strong enough to support people walking on it? and 2) I understand that there are no adhesives that will stick to it, so how would I get carpeting to stay put? Is there anything else I should be aware of?
TIA,
Wayne
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