Who uses the least wood in new boats?

[tmh]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

Interesting thread.... When I start reading above about needing to keep a boat indoors for proper care, i start looking for other alternatives! Sure, a wood structure boat will stay nice if kept indoors. So would one made of cardboard. It's great IF you can do it conveniently, but few can.

For me, if it can't be kept in a slip i don't want it. If i can't be reasonably careful in covering it up then have it OK out in the rain all summer, I don't want it. It's a BOAT for gosh sakes.

I'm finishing replacing my wood floor (1985 19' BR) in a month or so...then that's it for wood-constructed stringers/transom/floor for me. This is my "beginner's boat" to learn boating and figure out exactly what we want in a boat....maybe own it 3 more years or so The next one will be used, but have as little wood structure as I can get. "No wood" isn't the big issue, it's no wood structure for me. If there is wood trim, dask, etc. that's fine.

 

[Frugal Floater]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

I think most "wood" agree that 100% rot-free construction is almost the norm in boats and one less thing you have to worry about. All boat manufacturers are heading in this direction. With that eliminating some brands, focus on fit and finish as well as power...then compare price and warranty within your budget.

If it is durability you are looking for, then look at boats that dominate the saltwater. Sure Whaler might be out of your range, but these boats are designed to take a beating. Some examples that I can find in my SeaPro are:

1. All stainless hardware
2. 1/2" stainless backing plates on all cleats, swim ladder, etc..
3. All chrome plated stainless fasteners
4. Welded bow, console, and grab rails
5. High density transom
6. Super fast self bailing deck

You can find some nice durable dual console boats desinged for saltwater in your price range...They usualy have less frill, but this frill in most cheap boats will fade, crack, and break in the long run anyway...Less cosmetic frill= easy cleanup and a better looking boat down the road....my 3 cents

 

[tommays]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

the problem is that just because it does not have wood you are makeing the jump that it is well built

Just Google up the problems that people have had with wood-free deck materials MORE problems than with real wood


Tommays

 

[Booner]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

Bayliner!! Least amount of wood, fiberglass and everything else thats important.

I just couldn’t resist guys:devil:

 

[Frugal Floater]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

Tommays has a good point, but given the choice between 2 well built boats, I will choose composite over wood.

Booner you realize the Bayliner hunters are sharpening their arrows right now and are ready to attack....Bayliner owners take a lot of abuse here:=

 

[Robj]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

Crownline uses wood, but it is pressure treated, I believe Grady White also uses pt wood. I think if you use pt wood that is properly encapsulated it will outlast the owner. The rest of the boat will be junk and the pt wood will remain solid. Wood is a good thing providing it is used in such a way to ensure it will not rot. Who knows what condition these wood free boats will be in 20 years.

 

[hibbert6]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

>Bottom line is if you buy a boat new, care for it and store it properly, don't let it float in a slip all summer, and most importantly keep it as dry as possible on the inside, it'll last a lifetime without a speck of rot.

OK, I don't get it. What's wrong with leaving a fiberglass hull boat in the water all summer? As long as you cover it when not in use to keep the sun from destroying paint & upholstery...

 

[tommays]

Re: Who uses the least wood in new boats?

You should be able to leave the boat in the water BUT that is wear the problems start

Way to many boats do not have things built correctly and the water soaks into transome and stringer areas and soaks the foam ,ECT ECT


all because of poor design and install of things like limber holes that should alow all the water to drain to a common low point in the boat to be pumped out without soaking into the wood that should be sealed water tight but is not:devil:


You would think GEL COAT is water proof BUT ITS NOT and does cause problems and you get a limited time on hull blisters before its your problem

Tommays