Home Depot Foam

[James F. Girgenti]

Is it ok to use window type insulating foam in the bilge? Does it provide the same flotation as the marine two part type?

 

[Timm Miller]

Nope

It is not "Closed Cell Foam" it will absorb water...........West Marine has a two part system that is closed cell

 

[MArk]

Foam test

James,I agree with Timm. Standard expanding insulation foam can get waterlogged. Here's an experiment you can try at home:1. Make a 6" or so blob of foam.2. Let it dry for a week.3. Weigh it.4. Keep it submerged in a bucket of water for 30 days.5. Weigh it again.Weight in step 5 minus step 3 is due to water saturation. To meet CG requirements, foam must not lose more than 5% of its bouyancy under this test. (see link)Happy (fusion powered) sails *_/),MArk

 

[James F. Girgenti]

Foam

Thanks for the advise. I will make a trip to West Marine.