Okay, I think I've searched and read about all I can on the merits and pitfalls of marine applications of plywood for bulkheads, and my head is spinning. Too many choices! My bulkheads are approaching the end of their useful service life, and I am looking for suitable replacements--particularly because of rot where the chainplates attach to the bulkheads. The originals were non-glassed 7-ply 3/4" mahogany. My choices (for my budget and local availability) are: 1. "Tropical" Meranti, 3/4" glassed or "gorilla glued" on the bottom and sides (I'm pretty sure it's BS6566 standard) 2. 23/32" BCX Pine, stained to match, glassed on the edges and varnished 3. 23/32" ACX Arauco, stained to match, glassed on the edges and varnished 4. 3/4" birch 7-ply cabinet plywood, glassed on the edges and varnished I'm anxious to hear of any experiences or opinions. My mast is only 31.5' and the boat is only 7500lbs, so loading isn't as much of a factor as with other heavier boats. Still, safety is a factor (failure) coupled with the fact that the boat itself is older (1978) and I'm on a budget. Thanks for the help!
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Baltic Birch
Good link. I am also replacing interior bulkheads. I would like to lighten up the interior and came across a marine grade baltic birch which looks good with a polyurethane sealer, no stain. The only hitch is I can't find it listed online with two good sides. Any opinions?
Good link. I am also replacing interior bulkheads. I would like to lighten up the interior and came across a marine grade baltic birch which looks good with a polyurethane sealer, no stain. The only hitch is I can't find it listed online with two good sides. Any opinions?
Try Noahs
This is avaiable in the US & CAN. I used their 3/4" marine ply finished two sides with great results. Good pricing too!
This is avaiable in the US & CAN. I used their 3/4" marine ply finished two sides with great results. Good pricing too!
epoxy
You cant beat marine ply,preferably imported hardwood. Then paint it with penetrating epoxy ,especialy at the edges. Its as good as it gets &should outlast the boat.
You cant beat marine ply,preferably imported hardwood. Then paint it with penetrating epoxy ,especialy at the edges. Its as good as it gets &should outlast the boat.
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