Hunter 49 Glossy Laminate Floor Repair

[tkwhalen]

I have the glossy laminate floor in my 49 and in several places there are discolored areas that look like water stains on finished wood. They are like looking through a thin milky white water spot. Any body else have these??... and has any one found a way to repair them ??

I also have a few chips at the edges. I am assuming the best way to fix those is to fill the chips and paint them to color match as best as possible ....alternate ideas would be appreciated.

 

[JamesG161]

A few pictures might help. I want to know the best suggestions too.
Jim...

 

[tkwhalen]

James
I was thinking pictures would be nice the whole time I was typing the question. I will take some and post them next week. Do you have the same weird milky spots or chips?

 

[JamesG161]

Do you have the same weird milky spots or chips?

Only in a small spot that I suspect may have been caused by a solvent spill that attacked the glossy coating.
I saw one boat that had that on the dining table. They said it was sun exposure.

I try to prevent nick and dents but if you use it, it happens. I would love to fill and make new.
Jim...

PS: I will take a few pictures too, this weekend.

 

[tkwhalen]

Finally took some pictures of the spots I am talking about ... Hopefully, some one has some ideas on how to repair or at least what is causing them so I don't create more.

 

[JamesG161]

I forgot to take a few pictures but will do soon.

Looks like a chemical attack to the urethane. Maybe an ammonia based cleaner splashed on the Deck. Dump any Windex with ammonia D. Great for glass.
I would check what cleaners are aboard.
Jim...

 

[LeslieTroyer]

I've successfully used acetone to remove "glue and other stains" from laminate flooring - you might want to test in a out of the way place first.

 

[JamesG161]

I've successfully used acetone to remove "glue and other stains" from laminate flooring

If teak is coated with polyurethane, don't use acetone.
Look a C and D for possible attack fluid
http://www.gallaghercorp.com/oil-chemical-resistance-polyurethanes/

Battery Acid, pure alcohol, vinegar, paint thinner... if left on the floor for a long time.
Jim...

 

[tkwhalen]

House laminate has a top layer made either Melamine or Aluminum Oxide I have assumed that the version used in marine applications would have a similar top layer but I suppose it could be polyurethane ... any body know for sure what the top layer is in marine laminate?

 

[JamesG161]

House laminate has a top layer

I am sorry I jumped to real teak from the size of your boat.
After seeing your pictures, it is obviously a laminate.
Here is the site I found for marine laminates...
http://www.plasteak.com/plasteak-re...looring/teak-and-holly-flooring-glossy-finish
That looks just like yours.
The warranty section...
http://www.plasteak.com/specs/warranty
Says it is a urethane coating and lists some chemicals NOT to use.

The Bad news...
I have installed many Laminate floors, they are just a photo, with a very thin protective coating. Not much sanding allowed.
I will call my flooring specialist if you want more of my help.
Jim...

 

[tkwhalen]

Jim
You may have brought good news if the top is truly a urethane coating. I says the satin is a urethane coating but doesn't mention the glossy version top layer. I know laminate is simply a picture covered by a thin protective layer so sanding can be very tricky. However, if the top layer is urethane vs. aluminum oxide there may be a chance I can sand and repair as I can redo urethane where I can not redo aluminum oxide. Any advice from your flooring expert would be appreciated.
Kevin
PS It is clear I need to avoid any alkaline based spills or cleaners ... now to find what I used or spilled that was alkaline so I can toss it in the trash.

 

[JamesG161]

The Bad news...
I have installed many Laminate floors, they are just a photo, with a very thin protective coating. Not much sanding allowed.
I will call my flooring specialist if you want more of my help.
Jim...

Well no good news from the specialist. He and I discussed this problem. It is probably too late to recover.
FWIW, I have pushed my clients AWAY from laminate flooring for many reasons, since they first came out. Using the laminate flooring for WALL PANELING, is OK.

The flooring specialist (38 years) sent me to one of his major suppliers web site. I won't link it in this forum. I will tell you the YouTube "Do's and Don'ts" would drive me away from landlubber flooring even more.

The protective clear coat, may be Acrylic resin, if not Urethane.
His only suggestion was Vinegar, undiluted, and do circular motions with a damp cloth for the "foggy areas". The ideas is that that stain, might be "stubborn" type and not an etching into the finish. Try at your own risk.

In you second picture, you can see the flooring delaminating all ready (upper left), which will expose the substate to possible water intrusion and swelling.

I am Surprised that more SBO'ers don't have similar problems or solutions!

The least costly method to protect our non laminate flooring, which also serves as a work pad.....
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-18-x-30-Comfort-Mate-D-Mat-Black/46716003
We have 2, one for Galley and one for guest forward cabin floor. We use them to set large removable hatches, tools and doors during maintenance. Great floor and knee savers.

Sorry I didn't come bearing GOOD NEWS.
Jim...

PS: I will link the site in a Private message.

 

[JamesG161]

PS It is clear I need to avoid any alkaline based spills or cleaners ... now to find what I used or spilled that was alkaline so I can toss it in the trash.

TIP: Easy to test a cleaner before using. Use these or swimming pool supply pH test strips.
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Jungle-Quick-Dip-pH-Test-Strips-5ct-Fish-Aquatic-Pets/15580452

Jim...