Rasmus Core Material/ Cap Rail

[Brian Bober]

The teak cap rail on my Rasmus Ketch has come unfastened in a 14 inch area along the port and starboard size. This was due to the jib sheet block becoming under load while wedged under the cap rail.My concern is water absorbing into the core inbetween the bulwark and hull.Is the vinyl core used water resistant? Has anyone else had this issue and if so what was the solution.Thanks!!Brian

 

[Paul Goodhand]

Cap rail

Our boat, Gralyn, is a 1970 Nab 35, same hull as the Rasmus. We have owned her since 2002, and when we bought her, the teak capping rail had been removed. The last owner said he removed it in 1998, as it was damaged! We have been sailing without a teak capping, and have had no problem with water soaking into the foam core. The top of the core has been painted with polyester or epoxy resin. One job next winter is to fit a new teak capping, as it will make the boat look so much better. I think the foam core must be water resistant, and should not soak up water.