Re: why do stringers and the foam get water logged and rotten
Shane,
The water logging problem in the coring can be caused by either manufacturer and/or user misuse problems. Some of the more common are:
1. Holes drilled in or through the transom to mount fishfinder transducers, stern platforms, trim tabs, and a mulitude of other stern attachments. Improper sealing of these penetrations will provide a path for water (usually under pressure to enter the core) Solution is to get the proper drilling method and sealant for the job.
2. Stringers that are not sealed (encapsulated) with fiberglass and resin. Weep holes through the stringers that allow water to drain into the bilge not being internally sealed with epoxy. Holes drilled into or through stringers - and not correctly sealed. This can include the engine mounts but often is just carelessness in putting screws into the wooden stringer to simply hold wires and cables neatly.
3. Rub rail (hull to liner) installation and sealing by factory allowing water to enter this seam with each splashing wave.
4. Rain water/splash entering deck fittings (cleets, railing stantions) that are not correctly bedded. (i.e. sealed). This includes windows, port holes, and deck access openings that need to be correctly sealed can be a problem with many boats.
One possible solution is to get a boat that has solid fiberglass construction (i.e. no core used). This results in a heavier boat than one with coring, but the hull will not absorb water during its life. However, problems with protecting the wooden stern, stringers, and decking still remain.
So be careful when you decide to mount something on your boat, you may be opening a "can of worms" resulting in a water logged core, stringers or stern.
erie_guy
Port Clinton, OH
