waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

[Ramanonos]

Hi, I have a Bayliner 2655 and with all the rain we've been getting, I've noticed several leaky spots from the top deck down into the cabin areas of the roof. It's not excessive, but it's causing significant mold, and is pretty wet to the touch. There's one area (blackened from mold) that I took a peek inside to the fiberglass. I didn't see any noticeable damage to the fiberglass, but there was a line of bolts (for Canvas top) in that area. the screws wer slightly wet to touch, and so I suspect that is where I'm getting wayter in.

So the question I have is should I just simply buy some silicon spray and cover that area from the inside? If so, what kind do you recommend? Is slight leakage in fiberglass like I'm describing normal? I'm thinking not given the level of black mold build up (dangerous stuff).

Thanks!

 

[oops!]

Re: waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

hi....welcome to iboats !

Sorry about your troubles. that black mold is a real pain...

Ok.......
The fiberglass is not the problem.
I doubt the snap holes or the screw holes are as well...

I would look at hatches....and any other major thru deck accessory. any windows....hatches.....these are most likely the culprets.

however....you have to take the upholsetery out to clean it ...right?,,,so,,,,when you are in there...add 3m 4200 to all the snaps...screw holes ect....
then take the hatch frame out and re gasket/seal it.....as well.....do the windows too...

It will take a little bit....but you will have no worries after its done.

cheers
oops

 

[chriscraft254]

Re: waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

Yeah, what he said ^^^ The only way it will be leaking into the cabin is through bolt holes , hatches and window seals etc. Spraying a silocone spray will do nothing, you need to find the source of the water coming in and fix it. Probably will just require some life seal around the bolts and so on. good luck.

 

[Bondo]

Re: waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

So the question I have is should I just simply buy some silicon spray and cover that area from the inside?

Ayuh,... Welcome Aboard,.... Generally speakin', leaks are better sealed Outside, Before the water gets in...

 

[Ramanonos]

Re: waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

Thanks. I have a tube of 3M 4200. How do you suggest I apply to the areas with fastener snaps? Should I remove all the screws/bolts, drill out, and apply the sealant (hopefully not..)? or do I just put a bead around each bolt? If the latter, do I apply the sealant on the bottom underneath, or on top (under would look better).

Thanks again.

 

[Sleeper-6]

Re: waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

I don't see a need to drill out anything.
I would remove each screw/snap and put a small amount directly in/on the screw hole then put the screw back in. Then wipe off any excessive squeeze out.
Same thing for the windows, hatches, and hardware a blob on each screw hole and a bead on the flat surfaces that meet the deck/hull. reinstall and clean up the excess.
If it really is that wet, you may want to remove all the hardware and let it dry out before re-installing everything just to avoid trapping any moisture in there.

 

[Ramanonos]

Re: waterproof the fiberglass in cabin

Thanks