Sealing Deck Hardware
Josh - Some thoughts on rebedding hardware. First, its a good idea. That said here's how I do it. I would at a minimum taeke the time to countersink the holes so that the tops are conical, flared side up. That way when you install the hardware you don't simply squeeze all the sealant out. If you can, I would do the tightening process in rounds. If you lay in your choice of goop - more on choice in a minute - and then you tighten the fittings almost but not quite all the way, you'll get a better seal. At the sealant cures, but before its completely cured, tighten the rest of the way. Personall - I use 3M 5200 - this is the stuff that people warn you about. It is extremely tenacious but not impossible to remove. If you need to take a fitting off in the future take a guitar string and use it like a wire saw underneath the fitting. If you don't want to do the work use 3M 4200. My theory is that I'd like a better seal and don't mind a little more work. Your mileage may varry. Justin - O'day Owners' Web
