Soft Top

[korchinskyp]

I purchased a Starwind 27 recently and noticed that the topsides are soft and flexible.
Is this inherent in the materials that Wellcraft used in manufacture of the boat or do I have big problems?

 

[centerline]

nothing is supposed to be soft and flexible....

I am assuming you are referring to the deck and not the topsides.
(topsides refers to the hull between the waterline and the rail)

it should be a firm surface to walk on and for strength to keep the hull in shape when the rigging is tensioned properly...

how much of it is soft?
...and where?
it can be repaired, but depending on the method you use, and how much area is soft will determine the time and cost of the repair... and whether its even worth it.

 

[Scott T-Bird]

It would help if you were a little more specific ...

The topsides of the hull shouldn't be flexible at all. It's more likely that your deck may have some problems. Mine is soft underneath the salon windows. I blame it on the cheap plastic frames that I have on mine (soon to be replaced), which were cracked and leaking water badly. I sealed the windows but haven't addressed the deck yet. There may not be a need to panic if you stop the water intrusion. The condition of my decks hasn't deteriorated in the 9 seasons I've sailed the boat but I'm planning on getting after it this spring.

Just exactly how extensive are the soft areas and where are they located? Hopefully you don't have any softness in the coach roof area around the mast step. The decks shouldn't be difficult to repair. There is a lot of help on this forum for this kind of repair.