Fiberglass deck depression

[noworries79]

I have discovered a depression in the deck of my boat beneath the original carpet. It feels like a softball-sized hole, should I plug it with structural foam and then glass it over? Or is there a better way?

I am also looking into the textured fiberglass decking and doing away with the carpet completley, similar to a bay boat. Any suggestins on what products to use, or have you all done a project similar to this? Thank you in advance.

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: Fiberglass deck depression

First, welcome to iboats.

Now for the not so welcoming news. You need to replace the decking but first find out how wide spread the problem is including checking out the stringers underneath to see their condition.

Post some pics and details of your boat and the guys here will help you figure out the scope of the problem and walk you through the replacement step by step.

Good luck

 

[oops!]

Re: Fiberglass deck depression

welcome to i boats.......

i fully agree with my friend in the above post.

finding a soft spot in the deck......is some times the start of a full blown all out restoration.

the reason for the soft spot is rot......it starts underneath and goes from there.....the problem is water is heavy and the underside of the deck....is the top of the hull interior.....i really dont want to scare you here.....lets just go a step at a time......

you can patch it by putting a metal plate over the spot and sticking your head in the sand like an ostrich........not the best idea

you can cut out the affected area.....take several core samples and decide form there.......good start..

or sell the boat quick.......(ive never liked that option)....

but for right now....its one of the three.

cheers
oops

 

[noworries79]

Re: Fiberglass deck depression

Thanks for the replies. I'll try to get some pics up as soon as I strip out the carpet and keep you guys posted on the situation. Unlike my user name, I'm a little worried.

 

[NelsonQ]

Re: Fiberglass deck depression

Thanks for the replies. I'll try to get some pics up as soon as I strip out the carpet and keep you guys posted on the situation. Unlike my user name, I'm a little worried.

Well let's hope its more of a rash and that your ribs are still intact underneath