Interior Refinishing (Newbie needs help!)

[Justin_NSA]

That's a good example of poor material selection. The "gym mat" stuff they used is poor insulation and more expensive than the Reflectix foil backed bubble roll that Dave linked above and will likely hold mildew much better. The one advantage to it is it is it is fairly durable and could be left uncovered, although not an attractive finish.

 

[Capt Robbie]

can we assume that you are planning to air condition the space? If not then the insulation is not going to do much as the outside temps will eventually equal the inside temp. The foil type insulation will help as a buffer. It has very good reflective ability I would also cut pieces to fit any Windows and ports as this made a huge diferance on my boat during the peak sun in the afternoon.
This type is pretty inexpensive and avilable at home centers like lowes and Home Depot. My Air conditioner does not struggle to keep cabin cool. As someone stated a simple sun shade will also help. Simple to construct, two boat poles and tarp tied to the ends and maybe a halyard to lift it of for never deck.

Hope this helped

 

[PaulK]

Watch out for foam insulation that absorbs water. It will, making any leaks impossible to find and adding tons - literally- to the boat's weight.

 

[against.the.wind.]

can we assume that you are planning to air condition the space? If not then the insulation is not going to do much as the outside temps will eventually equal the inside temp. The foil type insulation will help as a buffer. It has very good reflective ability I would also cut pieces to fit any Windows and ports as this made a huge diferance on my boat during the peak sun in the afternoon.
This type is pretty inexpensive and avilable at home centers like lowes and Home Depot. My Air conditioner does not struggle to keep cabin cool. As someone stated a simple sun shade will also help. Simple to construct, two boat poles and tarp tied to the ends and maybe a halyard to lift it of for never deck.

Hope this helped

Thanks! Yes, we have a/c. I think we’ve agreed on the bubble insulation or similar. It’s going to be covered up anyways and we won’t need the cushion factor above the actual cushions anyways.

 

[against.the.wind.]

On a side note. We probably get just as hot, although not as humid as FL. The best addition to Bella was a full deck, minus cockpit, cover. It keeps the sun off of the deck and has an airgap for circulation. It makes a significant difference on the temps below when we are in the slip. Also protects the 'glas, windows, and lines.
Don't look at it like a Band-Aid though. You should still fix the leaks.

Now that the foam vinyl is cleared off. Re-sealing the windows, and other problem areas is next on the list! I’ll keep the cover in mind. Thanks for the idea!

 

[against.the.wind.]

Can I just say how great it’s been having everyone be so nice and helpful! We really appreciate it! If I can keep up on my progress photos, i’ll hopefully be able to share those too.

 

[jssailem]

Re-sealing the windows,

Welcome to the forum. Sounds like your on your way to making the boat your home.

As you work the insulation problem, remember that you are reducing the condensation occurrence not going to eliminate it. Be sure you are careful to still allow air to flow. That will be the key to keeping the keeping the area dry and limit mold. Nothing could be worse than to have sealed the area up tight and have mold growing in the walls.

The next step - Resealing the windows. If they are leaking around the seals then the seal material is failing. You just cannot slap some sealant over the top and hope. The solution is to remove the window, remove the sealant that is still stuck to the opening, lay down new sealant and reinstall the window. This will keep the water out for a few years. Mother Nature is relentless. No one has been able to identify why she feels our boats should have water on the inside. She keeps trying and we keep fighting back.