Making a teak cockpit floor

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Mike Denman

Jun 28, 2003

#1

I have a 1987 Hunter 34' and would like to make a teak floor for the cockpit. My old boat had one and it was great. Basically it was 1" strips overlaped to create a grated effect. It's very functional, add's beauty to a stark production boat, and can save damage to the fiberglass if something heavy is inadvertantly dropped. If anyone has made one, or knows where to find out how, I'd appreciate any tips or leads. Thanks alot, Mike

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Gary Wyngarden

Jun 28, 2003

#2

Floorboards

Mike,I just had teak floorboards made for my H335 and they look great! I had them made for me by a local guy (Mike Powell) who makes teak sailing stuff for a living. His web site is attached. He will make them either fully assembled or in a kit form which saves a lot of money and might work best for you given the distance. It really dresses up the boat. I also had him make some companionway doors for me. Hope this helps.Gary Wyngardens/v Shibumi H335

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Steve Dion

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Jun 28, 2003

#3

H & L Marine.....

Mike:There are different ways to make these units. I think if you look at Gary's photo you will see that this is much easier than the cross-crossed boards.You may want to contact H & L Marine in Southern California. They have the wood or they can even make the entire unit for you. H & L Marine Woodwork Inc 2965 E HARCOURTST COMPTON, CA 90221-5501 323/636-1718

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Jim

Jun 28, 2003

#4

Teak Floorboards

West sells the teak floorboards, both the notched and the flat stock. Make a paper pattern of your cockpit floor and assemble the boards at home. Assemble it up side down so you can glue and screw each intersection. (Lots of screws.) When assembled, turn right side up and lay the pattern on top of your new grate, trace it out and cut it out with a saber saw. Be careful not to hit any of the screws with the saw. Sand the edges with a belt sander if you have one. I have made grates for my last three boats, the latest is a 460, and they look and work well. I get a lot of complements. Even if you make yourself, the teak is not cheep. You may be able to find a less expensive source for teak on the internet. I put three coats of Cetol light on mine, and they last a solit year before they need another coat. Good luck, and get an electric screw gun! Pre drill your holes with a countersink.