I am replacing a lot of my teak, for example the handrails with SS; so this topic is very interesting to me.
I looked up Sensibuilt and found that they make it in standard decking sizes, but I did not see any 'structural' or sheet sizes that would account for your traveler risers or companionway drop boards respectively. Where did you get the larger dimensions and sheet stock?
Also Sensibuilt is a laminate, where an outer coating surrounds a more standard PVC core. Once it is milled to shape, none of the cut surfaces will have the mildew resistance nor will have the UV resistance we as sailors need.
Can someone who has more experience than I in these areas, comment and possibly point to other product lines that might be better suited? I would really like to replace my drop boards this fall.
Jeff,
When I got my Sensibuilt, they had a brush-on finish that didn't match the color. I used MEK on the cut edges & it looked perfect. The downside was that, after 4 months in the sun, it chalked up. I do know now, that the have a brush-on finish. I would ask them about this.
For my traveler, I sandwiched/epoxied 3 deck boards 3 high & then cut them to suit. If you want, I may have the drawings I made, I'll probably have to scan the sketches. Let me know.
The other board I mentioned is called Fascia Board, mention this (16"W x 5/8" THK). I'm waiting a few more weeks but will order this. Here is the email I received awhile back on the coating, you look into this pal:
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Hi CR,
Here’s something to consider. Bob used to work for Sensibuilt, which we bought the rights too and later changed the name to Outdoor Flooring. He wrote:
Interesting application for the Sensibuilt deck. His best option would be to thoroughly sand the boards to remove any loose coating and other chalked areas. Once prepared he should coat the boards with one of our IPT Versacryl™ Restoration coatings. We have the 5 standard colors that he can view on our website,
www.iptcorporation.com. I would suggest Prairie since its’ our highest L value color and has the highest TSR. Our coatings will yield a low gloss surface so I hope that’s ok. If he wants to proceed I can sell him what he needs and can instruct him on the application details. I have never applied Versacryl™ over Sensibuilt but it should work. We could not be responsible for the outcome since it’s a one off application.
Bob Harris,
http://www.iptcorporation.com/
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From Rick Lappin:
I’m still waiting on comment from our chief chemist, but I’ve done some testing with a transparent Behr exterior stain that have shown pretty good results against UV as well (Behr Transparent Waterproofing Wood Finish).
Thanks,
rick
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Hope this is of some help.
CR
