replacing floor need tips

[cosander]

I have searched and read on replacing the flooring. I have a 19ft imperial I am considering reflooring. <br />Question is how do I cut (make template) to make the best fitting floor?<br />Then how do I learn how to use poly to glass the floor?<br />Thanks in advance for any help

 

[studlymandingo]

Re: replacing floor need tips

Go to an appliance store, get a large refrigerator box, makes a great template for cuting the new ply.

 

[Rick K]

Re: replacing floor need tips

Cosander, <br /><br />For measuring, run a string down the center of your boat, and mark off every 6 inches or so. Transfer those measurements off a centerline on your plywood, and that'll make a template. Test fit, etc., till it fits to your satisfaction. Or, if you can grab some cardboard that's big enough, you can make a template from that.<br /><br />For a bit of info on epoxy and glass, take a look at this post:<br /> http://forums.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=26;t=004745 <br /><br />Or, if that link doesn't work, scroll down to "Marine Carpet Glue Over Epoxy Resin" posted on May 12.<br /><br />As far as epoxy goes, it's pretty easy to work with. Use old clothes, and definately gloves. You'll be throwing them out when you're done. <br /><br />Some epoxy brands are a 50/50 mix, some are different. Just mix it together, and roll, brush, or squeegee it out, and make absolutely sure you really get it into the edges. When dry, add another coat, working the glass cloth in. <br /><br />Lastly, there are tons of topics on replacing and/or repairing flooring in the forums. Keep searchin' and you'll find more info than you can absorb in a year!!!<br /><br />Good Luck<br />Rick

 

[Bondo]

Re: replacing floor need tips

Ayuh,........<br /><br />String Line,+ a Tape Measure are the Keys...........<br /><br />On Fitting the panels,.....<br />A Little Loose is Better than a Little Tight.......<br />Gotta have Room for the Epoxy.......

 

[Realgun]

Re: replacing floor need tips

I found the string method to work best. A bit loose is good. Make peanut butter to fill the gaps.<br /><br />Peanut butter recipe-<br />1/2 cup epoxy hardner<br />1 cup epoxy resin<br />2:1 ratio <br />Epoxy varies so read the directions!<br />8 oz of 1/4" or 1/8" glass fibers<br /><br />Mix the epoxy in a cup larger than 3 cups size.<br />Mix at least 1 minute.<br />Pour in 4 oz if milled glass. Mix it in slowly or the fibers will fly. Best is to get glue and try to slid it up over fibers and Fold the mixture. Add fibers till the mixing stick stands up straight.<br /><br />Spread it quick as it will harden faster than a thin coat of epoxy! <br />Hint: a putty knif works well and can be wiped off for reuse.<br /><br />>>>>Safety hint- Use a dust mask so you dont inhale any fibers.<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<br /><br />Peanut butter-<br />

<br />Floor hull gap filled in-<br />

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: replacing floor need tips

i use the string line, and make the template out of the appliance box. test fit it. much cheaper than test fitting plywood.

 

[cosander]

Re: replacing floor need tips

Thanks good info. I am trying now to decide if I want to go epoxy or poly can someone tell me (about) how much material I will need for a 19 foot floor only replacement.

 

[Realgun]

Re: replacing floor need tips

3 gallons would be good. You are going to seal both sides and edges with epoxy before you install it? Other wise your gonna be doing the floor in a few years. Marine grade or regualr plywood will not matter if its not sealed.

 

[tr918]

Re: replacing floor need tips

I also found the string method and making the first template out of cardboard to work best. Test fit the card board and if it does not fit make another. It is much cheaper than doing this with the actual plywood.

 

[cosander]

Re: replacing floor need tips

yes realgun I will pre-resin? , I am reading up. I am still a little mixed up on mat cloth tape peanut butter and all the glassing terms. This will be my first experience with fiber glass. Does anyone have a "beginners guide to fiberglass site"?

 

[garrett61]

Re: replacing floor need tips

Go to your local West Marine they have a pretty decent book on epoxy and all the ways they use it for repairs.

 

[VADER8674]

Re: replacing floor need tips

i have done a good bit of work with fiberglass and all i can say when your ready to mix have everything in place and have a plan once it starts to set up it can make a mess quick

 

[Realgun]

Re: replacing floor need tips

Go to system3 and download "The Epoxy Book". Great information and the epoxy works good if expensive.